Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons brandy
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups finely chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, for coating
Special Equipment Needed:
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the butter and 1/2 cup of confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg yolks, brandy, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until combined.
5. With the mixer on low, gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Stir in the walnuts.
7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.
9. Let cool for 5 minutes, then roll in the remaining confectioners’ sugar.
Time:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature: 350 degrees F
Serving Size: Makes about 2 dozen cookies
Nutritional Information: Per cookie: Calories: 140, Fat: 8g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Cholesterol: 30mg, Sodium: 15mg, Carbohydrates: 15g, Fiber: 1g, Protein: 2g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- For the all-purpose flour, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour.
- For the butter, you can use vegan butter.
- For the egg yolks, you can use flaxseed meal.
- For the brandy, you can use orange juice.
- For the walnuts, you can use almonds or pecans.
Variations:
- You can add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a chocolate chip version.
- You can add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity version.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to use room temperature butter for best results.
- If the dough is too sticky, you can add a bit more flour.
- If the cookies are too soft, you can bake them for a few more minutes.
Storage Instructions:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
The cookies can be reheated in a 350 degree F oven for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
The cookies can be served on a plate or platter, or arranged in a decorative tin or basket.
Garnishes:
The cookies can be garnished with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Pairings:
The cookies pair well with coffee or tea.
Suggested Side Dishes:
The cookies can be served with a scoop of ice cream or a glass of cold milk.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the cookies are too dry, you can add a bit more brandy or orange juice.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the cookies in an airtight container to prevent them from going stale.
Food History:
Kourabiedes are a traditional Greek cookie that is usually served during the holidays.
Flavor Profiles:
The cookies have a rich, buttery flavor with a hint of cocoa and a crunchy texture from the walnuts.
Serving Suggestions:
The cookies can be served as an after-dinner treat or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Greek