Koulourakia recipe (Greek Easter cookies)

Traditional Greek Easter cookies flavoured with orange zest and vanilla, offering a delightful crunchy exterior and tender inside.

Prep Time 40

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1 10

Servings 1 cookie

Calories 120 kcal

250 g butter softened
1 ½ cup plain white sugar
13 g powdered baking ammonia or 2.5 teaspoon double acting baking powder if swapping
½ cup lukewarm milk
4 medium eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange
1 kg all-purpose flour sifted
2 egg yolks for glaze
1 tablespoon water for glaze

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gets everything ready while you prep the dough.
In a big bowl, cream that softened butter and sugar together until it’s light and fluffy.
Add the baking ammonia or your baking powder. Mix it in good so it can do its job well.
Next, slowly pour in your lukewarm milk and crack in the eggs one at a time. Mix each egg fully before the next goes in.
Stir in vanilla extract and orange zest now.
Gradually add your flour. Mix until it’s soft and just a little sticky.
Divide the dough into small balls and start shaping. Twist or braid them.
Place your shaped cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Whisk egg yolks with water and brush over each cookie for that perfect glaze.
Pop them in the oven for 20-25 minutes or till golden brown.
Let them cool on a rack before diving in.

Serve the koulourakia with a cup of coffee or tea for a true Greek Easter experience.