Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Pastry brush
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
7. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
8. Roll each ball into a long rope, about 6 inches in length.
9. Twist each rope into a pretzel shape and place on the prepared baking sheet.
10. Brush each pretzel with a beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
11. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
12. Allow the koulourakia to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
5. Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
Makes about 24 koulourakia
Nutritional information:
Per serving (1 koulouraki):
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Sugar: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the amount of salt added to the dough.
- White sugar can be substituted with brown sugar or honey for a different flavor.
Variations:
- Add lemon zest or orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Dip the koulourakia in melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar to ensure a smooth dough.
- Don't overmix the dough or the koulourakia will be tough.
- Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the koulourakia with the beaten egg.
Storage instructions:
Store the koulourakia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the koulourakia in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the koulourakia on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a festive look.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with additional sesame seeds or drizzle with melted chocolate for a decorative touch.
Pairings:
Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious snack.
Suggested side dishes:
Koulourakia can be served as a standalone snack or dessert.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to moisten it.
- If the koulourakia spread too much during baking, chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping and baking.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all equipment thoroughly before starting to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Koulourakia are traditional Greek cookies often served during Easter and other holidays.
Flavor profiles:
The vanilla extract adds a sweet and fragrant flavor to the koulourakia, while the sesame seeds add a nutty crunch.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the koulourakia as a snack or dessert with coffee or tea.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Greek
Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Buttery, Vanilla, Vanilla-Scented