How to Make Finikia: A Step-by-Step Guide to Sweet, Greek Honey Cookies

Finikia, also known as melomakarona, are traditional Greek honey cookies enjoyed during the Christmas season. These fragrant and delicious treats are made with olive oil, orange juice, and spices, then dipped in a warm honey syrup and sprinkled with chopped nuts. Intrigued? Let’s dive into the world of finikia and learn how to make them in your own kitchen!

What is Finikia?

Finikia are more than just cookies; they’re a symbol of Greek culture and holiday cheer. These small, oval-shaped treats are flavored with the essence of the Mediterranean – citrus, honey, and olive oil. Their unique texture, a delightful combination of crunchy and chewy, is achieved by dipping the freshly baked cookies in a fragrant honey syrup.

Why You’ll Love Making Finikia

• Unique and delicious: The flavor profile of finikia is unlike any other cookie, offering a delicious blend of sweet, citrusy, and nutty notes.
• Festive and fun: Making finikia is a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays and share a taste of Greek tradition with your loved ones.
• Surprisingly easy: While the ingredient list might seem long, the steps are straightforward, and the results are incredibly rewarding.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make a batch of these delightful Greek honey cookies:

For the cookies:

• 1 cup olive oil
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brandy or cognac (optional)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• Zest of 1 orange
• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, for topping (optional)

For the honey syrup:

• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 orange peel

Tools You’ll Need

• 2 large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Small saucepan

Let’s Make Some Finikia!

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil and sugar until well combined.
2. Add the orange juice, brandy (if using), baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest. Mix well.
3. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead the dough lightly for a minute or two, just until it comes together.

Step 2: Shaping and Baking the Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into oval shapes, about 2 inches long.
3. Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Finikia Dough

Step 3: Making the Honey Syrup

1. While the cookies bake, prepare the honey syrup. Combine the honey, sugar, water, cinnamon stick, and orange peel in a small saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove the syrup from heat and discard the cinnamon stick and orange peel.

Step 4: Dipping and Decorating

1. Once the cookies are baked, let them cool slightly for a few minutes.
2. Gently dip each warm cookie into the hot honey syrup, ensuring all sides are coated.
3. Place the dipped cookies on a wire rack to drain any excess syrup.
4. While the cookies are still warm, sprinkle them with chopped walnuts (optional).

Dipping Finikia in Syrup

Step 5: Cooling and Serving

1. Allow the finikia to cool completely before serving. As they cool, the honey syrup will soak in, giving them their signature chewy texture.
2. Serve these delightful treats with a cup of Greek coffee or tea.

Tips and FAQs

• Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can make the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator, covered in plastic wrap.
• My syrup is too thick. What should I do? If the syrup becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time and stir until it reaches the desired consistency.
• Can I use a different type of nut for topping? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other nuts like almonds, pistachios, or pecans.

Finikia Platter

Enjoy the Sweet Rewards of Your Labor!

Making finikia is a labor of love, but the delicious results are well worth the effort. These fragrant, sweet, and nutty treats are sure to become a new holiday favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to experience the joy of making homemade finikia!