Greek Easter Koulourakia
Koulourakia are traditional cookies served in Greece during Easter.
Ingredients
- 250 grams unsalted butter softened
- 200 grams granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 orange zest
- 60 ml fresh orange juice
- 500 grams all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
- sesame seeds for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, indicating that the sugar has fully integrated with the butter.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the pure vanilla extract, orange zest, and fresh orange juice, ensuring a smooth and consistent batter.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until a soft, pliable dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Pinch off small portions of dough (approximately the size of a walnut) and roll them into ropes about 12-15 cm long.
- Fold each rope in half and twist the ends together to form a braid or twist.
- Alternatively, shape them into rings or “S” forms, depending on your preference.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk to create an egg wash.
- Brush this mixture lightly over the top of each cookie to give them a glossy finish.
- If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
- Arrange the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a small space between each to allow for slight spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are a light golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
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