Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg yolk, beaten
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until a soft dough forms.
6. Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a rope shape.
7. Twist each rope into a knot or braid and place on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Brush the tops of the koulourakia with the beaten egg yolk and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Allow the koulourakia to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
Makes about 3 dozen koulourakia
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Total fat: 7g
Saturated fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 70mg
Total carbohydrates: 13g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Total sugars: 5g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almond flour can be substituted with any other nut flour or regular flour.
- Sliced almonds can be substituted with chopped nuts or omitted.
Variations:
- Add lemon zest or orange zest for a citrusy flavor.
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced flavor.
- Dip the koulourakia in melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before creaming with sugar.
- Do not overmix the dough, as it can become tough.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk.
- For a softer texture, brush the koulourakia with a simple syrup after baking.
Storage instructions:
Store the koulourakia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the koulourakia in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the koulourakia on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with sliced almonds or powdered sugar.
Pairings:
Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with fresh fruit or a Greek salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the koulourakia spread too much while baking, chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use fresh ingredients and wash hands and surfaces thoroughly before preparing the recipe.
Food history:
Koulourakia are traditional Greek cookies that are often served during Easter and other special occasions.
Flavor profiles:
These almond koulourakia have a buttery and nutty flavor with a slightly sweet taste.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the koulourakia as a dessert or snack with coffee or tea.
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Region: Greek