Ingredients with Measurements:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup orange blossom water
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Sesame seeds for topping
Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the orange juice and orange blossom water, until a soft dough forms.
6. Roll the dough into small balls and shape them into twists or rings.
7. Place the koulourakia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
8. Brush the tops of the koulourakia with a little bit of water and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
5. Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
Makes about 30 koulourakia
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 140
Total fat: 7g
Saturated fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 60mg
Total carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Total sugars: 8g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use margarine instead of butter, but the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
- You can use lemon juice instead of orange juice for a different flavor.
- If you don't have orange blossom water, you can use vanilla extract or almond extract instead.
Variations:
- You can add some grated orange zest to the dough for extra flavor.
- You can dip the koulourakia in melted chocolate after they have cooled for a decadent treat.
- You can sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top instead of sesame seeds.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming it with the sugar, or the dough may not come together properly.
- Don't overwork the dough, or the koulourakia may become tough.
- If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little bit more flour until it becomes easier to handle.
- You can freeze the koulourakia for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
Storage instructions:
Store the koulourakia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
You can reheat the koulourakia in a 350°F (180°C) oven for a few minutes until warm.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the koulourakia on a platter and sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a pretty presentation.
Garnishes:
You can garnish the koulourakia with some fresh orange slices or mint leaves for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Koulourakia are traditionally served with coffee or tea.
Suggested side dishes:
Koulourakia are a sweet treat and don't necessarily need to be served with a side dish.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the koulourakia are too dry, you may have overbaked them. Try reducing the baking time next time.
- If the koulourakia are too soft, you may have underbaked them. Try increasing the baking time next time.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling the dough to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Koulourakia are a traditional Greek cookie that are often served during Easter and other holidays.
Flavor profiles:
Koulourakia have a sweet, buttery flavor with a hint of orange blossom water.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the koulourakia on a platter with some coffee or tea for a sweet snack.
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