When it comes to sweet treats, Greece has a rich tradition of delicious cookies that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic butter cookies like Kourabiedes to nutty and spiced varieties like Melomakarona and Finikia, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re looking for traditional Greek Easter cookies like Koulourakia or innovative twists on ancient recipes, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 irresistible Greek cookie recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds. From crunchy and buttery shortbread-like cookies to chewy and sweet treats filled with honey and nuts, these recipes showcase the best of Greek baking. So grab a cup of coffee or tea, put on your favorite Greek music playlist, and get ready to indulge in the sweetest part of Greece!
Kourabiedes (Greek Butter Cookies with Powdered Sugar)
A classic Greek cookie recipe that combines the richness of butter and powdered sugar for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Melomakarona (Honey-Spiced Cookies with Walnuts)
Traditional Greek cookies sweetened with honey and spiced with warm cinnamon, perfect for the holiday season. These chewy treats are a staple of Greek Christmas celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and cloves. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine honey, sugar, and butter. Beat until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs, then stir in the flour mixture and walnuts until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Finikia (Orange and Cinnamon Cookies)
These traditional Greek cookies are a perfect combination of sweet and spicy, with the warmth of cinnamon and the brightness of orange. Finikia are a staple during holidays like Christmas and Easter.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Beat in eggs, cinnamon, orange zest, and orange juice.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., hearts, stars).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Koulourakia (Greek Easter Butter Cookies)
These traditional Greek cookies are a staple of Easter celebrations, with their sweet and buttery flavor, crispy edges, and soft centers. Perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon orange juice or rose water (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, butter, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt until crumbly.
3. Beat in the egg until a dough forms. If using orange juice or rose water, add it now and mix well.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., eggs, hearts, or crosses).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Baklava Cookies (Nut-Filled Phyllo Cookies)
These bite-sized cookies are inspired by the classic Mediterranean pastry, Baklava. With layers of flaky phyllo, crunchy nuts, and a hint of sweetness, they’re perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped walnuts, granulated sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
3. Layer phyllo dough with the nut mixture, starting and ending with phyllo.
4. Brush top layer of phyllo with melted butter.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or triangles).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Almond Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies get a boost of flavor and texture from the addition of almonds and a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for a snack or as a sweet treat to accompany your favorite Greek yogurt or coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
3. Stir in almonds and honey until well combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly apart.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Karidopita Cookies (Walnut Cake-Inspired Cookies)
A twist on the classic Greek walnut cake, these cookies combine the warm spices and rich flavors of Karidopita with a crunchy cookie texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in walnuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Greek Sesame Cookies (Pasteli-Inspired)
Inspired by traditional Greek pasteli, these crunchy cookies combine the nutty flavor of sesame with a hint of Mediterranean spice. Perfect for a sweet and satisfying snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sesame seeds, sugar, and baking soda.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Stir in cinnamon and salt.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Galaktoboureko Cookies (Custard-Filled Delights)
These cookies are a creative spin on the traditional Galaktoboureko pastry, with a crispy phyllo crust and a creamy custard filling. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar.
4. Layer phyllo dough, brushing each layer with the butter mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla extract.
6. Place a spoonful of the egg mixture onto one end of the phyllo stack.
7. Fold the phyllo to enclose the filling, forming a triangle or square shape.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Cookies with Lemon Glaze
Elevate your cookie game with these refreshing treats that combine the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup lemon zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Lemon Glaze:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest and juice.
2. Drizzle glaze over cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Loukoumades Cookies (Mini Honey Puffs)
These bite-sized treats are a delightful twist on traditional loukoumades, with a crispy exterior and a sweet honey filling. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup honey, warmed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, olive oil, and salt until combined.
3. Add granulated sugar and mix until crumbly.
4. Gradually add warmed honey, stirring until dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until puffed and lightly golden.
7. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Greek Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti
Greek Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti Recipe
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these crunchy Italian cookies dipped in rich Greek chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (Greek or dark)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, and salt. Mix until dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Melt chocolate chips with honey in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
7. Dip cooled biscotti into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
8. Place dipped biscotti on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orange and Olive Oil Greek Cookies
Brighten up your day with these tender and crunchy Orange and Olive Oil Greek Cookies, infused with the warmth of citrus and the richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large egg
– Zest of 1 orange (about 1 tablespoon)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and orange marmalade until smooth. Add olive oil, egg, and orange zest; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Greek Spiced Christmas Cookies
Get into the holiday spirit with these aromatic and flavorful cookies that combine the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom with a hint of Mediterranean flair. Perfect for snacking or gifting, these treats will become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Paximadia (Greek Rusk Cookies with Anise)
Paximadia are traditional Greek cookies that are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, flavored with anise and perfect for dunking in coffee or tea. This recipe makes a large batch of these delicious treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground anise
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sesame seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and anise.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or circles).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and top with sesame seeds if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Pistachio and Rosewater Cookies
Experience the unique combination of crunchy pistachios and fragrant rosewater in these delightful cookies, inspired by traditional Greek flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and rosewater.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pistachios.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tsoureki-Inspired Cookies (Sweet Braided Bread Cookies)
Tsoureki-Inspired Cookies (Sweet Braided Bread Cookies)
Inspired by the traditional Greek sweet bread Tsoureki, these cookies capture its essence with a braided design and sweet flavors. Perfect for a festive treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolk and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Divide dough into 3 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
6. Braid the ropes together, tucking ends under the braid. Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: 6-8 cookies
Greek Honey and Walnut Thumbprint Cookies
Experience the classic combination of sweet honey and crunchy walnuts in these bite-sized treats. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in honey and egg.
3. Whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the sweet world of Greek cookies with these 18 irresistible recipes! From classic treats like Kourabiedes (Greek butter cookies with powdered sugar) and Melomakarona (honey-spiced cookies with walnuts), to creative twists like Galaktoboureko Cookies (custard-filled delights) and Greek Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti, there’s something for everyone. With flavors ranging from orange and cinnamon to walnut and rosewater, these cookies are sure to delight your taste buds.