How to Make Melt-in-Your-Mouth Kourabiethes with Festive Christmas Cookie Icing

Kourabiethes, these delightful Greek butter cookies, are a true testament to the saying “less is more.” With just a handful of ingredients, these little bites of heaven transport you to a realm of pure indulgence. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate almond flavor are simply irresistible. And when adorned with a festive Christmas cookie icing, they transform into edible works of art, perfect for spreading holiday cheer.

Gather Your Ingredients for a Taste of Greece

For the kourabiethes:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1/4 cup finely chopped almonds, toasted

For the Christmas cookie icing:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Red and green food coloring (optional)
• Christmas sprinkles (optional)

Tools of the Trade

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Piping bag (optional)

Kourabiethes dough

Let’s Embark on Our Kourabiethes Journey

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

3. Infuse the Flavors: Beat in the vanilla and almond extracts.

4. Gradual Flour Incorporation: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Fold in the Almonds: Gently fold in the toasted, chopped almonds.

6. Shape and Bake: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden.

7. Cooling Time: Let the kourabiethes cool completely on the baking sheets before icing.

Baked kourabiethes

Time to Decorate: Icing Magic

1. Prepare the Icing: In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If desired, divide the icing into separate bowls and tint with red and green food coloring.

2. Decorate: Dip the cooled kourabiethes in the icing or use a piping bag to drizzle icing over them. If desired, sprinkle with Christmas sprinkles.

3. Set the Icing: Let the icing set completely before serving.

Tips from My Grandmother’s Recipe Box

• For extra melt-in-your-mouth goodness, use European-style butter with a higher fat content.
• Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor. Simply spread them out on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
• If the dough is too sticky to handle, add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
• Don’t overbake the kourabiethes, or they will become dry.
• The icing can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I freeze kourabiethes?

A: Absolutely! Kourabiethes freeze beautifully. Once they’re completely cool, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for a few hours.

Q: Can I use different nuts?

A: Feel free to get creative with your nuts! Walnuts, pecans, or pistachios would all make delicious additions to kourabiethes.

Enjoy the Sweet Rewards of Your Labor

There you have it! Now you can impress your loved ones with these delightful Greek butter cookies, perfect for your holiday gatherings or any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness.

Iced kourabiethes

Let me know in the comments below how your kourabiethes turn out! Happy baking! And don’t forget to share your culinary creations and tag us on social media. For more delicious recipes and baking adventures, be sure to explore the rest of our website. Happy holidays!