Kourabye - traditional Greek Christmas sweet with mastic
12 servings
35 minutes
Mastika cookies are a traditional Greek Christmas treat that combines delicate cookies with the subtle aroma of mastika. The origins of this recipe date back centuries when mastika was valued for its unique flavor and healing properties. This delicacy has an airy texture, slightly crumbly, with pleasant nutty notes of roasted almonds. The powdered sugar coating on the warm cookies adds tenderness to the sweetness, while mastika contributes a light woody undertone. Perfect for cozy winter evenings with a cup of hot tea or coffee. It's not just a cookie but part of a festive tradition that fills the home with the aromas of the Eastern Mediterranean.
1
Beat the margarine and powdered sugar in a mixer until smooth.
- Margarine: 400 g
- Powdered sugar: 200 g
2
Then add the yolks, mastic powder, liqueur and continue to whisk. Gradually add baking powder (or soda neutralized with vinegar) and flour, then add the crushed almonds. The dough should be soft and pliable. You can shape it into elongated pieces by taking a little dough or cut it out by rolling it slightly, not too thin. A whole almond can be placed in the center of each kurabie.
- Egg yolk: 2 pieces
- Confectionery mastic: 15 g
- Baking powder: 15 g
- Wheat flour: 700 g
- Roasted almonds: 200 g
- Roasted almonds: 200 g
3
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees. Bake for 15-20 minutes.
4
Once ready and still warm, lightly spray with water, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and place on a plate.
- Powdered sugar: 200 g