10 Traditional Greek Cookies You Must Try This Holiday Season

Overview

When the holiday season arrives, there’s no better way to indulge in the sweetness of tradition than with Greek desserts. These cookies embody the rich culinary heritage of Greece, combining flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds. Perfect for gatherings with family and friends, these cookies are sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth. Most recipes require moderate time investment and are generally easy to make, but they do have a level of difficulty that requires attention to detail. Originating from various regions of Greece, these treats boast flavors ranging from nutty and spiced to citrusy and sweet, making them perfect for serving after dinner, during festive occasions, or alongside a cup of coffee.

10 Traditional Greek Cookies You Must Try This Holiday Season

1. Kourabiedes

Ingredients

• 250g all-purpose flour (2 cups)
• 125g unsalted butter, softened (½ cup)
• 100g powdered sugar (1 cup, plus more for dusting)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 50g almonds, toasted (⅓ cup)
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Add the vanilla and salt, mixing until well incorporated.
4. Slowly add the flour and toasted almonds, blending just until combined—avoid over-mixing.
5. Shape the dough into small balls or crescent forms and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow to cool before dusting with powdered sugar.

Variations & Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with almond flour. You can also try using pecans instead of almonds for a different flavor.

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer preservation.

Nutrition (Approx.)

Calories: 150 per cookie; Carbohydrates: 20g; Protein: 2g; Fats: 7g.

Serving Suggestions

Pair kourabiedes with a robust Greek coffee or a sweet dessert wine. For a touch of elegance, serve on a food-safe platter with seasonal berries.

2. Melomakarona

Ingredients

• 300g all-purpose flour (2½ cups)
• 150g olive oil (⅔ cup)
• 100g orange juice (⅓ cup)
• 100g sugar (½ cup)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 200g chopped walnuts (2 cups)
• Honey, for drizzling

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, orange juice, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Sift together the flour and baking powder, then gradually add to the wet ingredients.
4. Shape the dough into small oval cookies and place on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown.
6. Once cooled, drizzle with honey and sprinkle with walnuts.

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating

Melomakarona can be made a few days ahead and stored in an airtight container. They taste even better as they absorb the honey overnight.

Nutrition (Approx.)

Calories: 120 per cookie; Carbohydrates: 15g; Protein: 2g; Fats: 6g.

Serving Suggestions

Savor melomakarona with a glass of Vin Santo or alongside strong espresso, garnished with an orange slice.

3. Paximadi

Ingredients

• 250g barley flour (2 cups)
• 150g whole wheat flour (1 cup)
• 100g sugar (½ cup)
• 100g water (½ cup)
• 1 tsp yeast
• 1 tsp fennel seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix flour, sugar, and fennel seeds in a large bowl.
2. Dissolve yeast in warm water and add it to the flour mix.
3. Knead until smooth, then shape into small loaves.
4. Bake loaves at 180°C (350°F) for about 30 minutes.
5. Once cool, slice loaves and return to oven to dry out for another 10-15 minutes.

Variations & Substitutions

Paximadi can be flavored with different seeds (like sesame) or sweeteners (like honey) depending on your preference. This cookie can be made vegan by ensuring no dairy is used in other ingredients.

Nutrition (Approx.)

Calories: 90 per slice; Carbohydrates: 15g; Protein: 3g; Fats: 2g.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a cup of Greek coffee or as a crunchy dip into a yogurt dip or cheese spread.

4. Bougatsa

Ingredients

• 250g phyllo dough (1 package)
• 250g ricotta or custard (1 cup)
• 100g powdered sugar (½ cup)
• 50g unsalted butter, melted (⅓ cup)
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Layer phyllo sheets brushing each with melted butter.
3. Spread ricotta or custard mixture evenly over the phyllo.
4. Fold and wrap the phyllo around the filling into a roll or triangles.
5. Bake until golden brown, about 30-35 minutes.
6. Dust with powdered sugar and cinnamon before serving.

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating

Bougatsa is best served fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

Nutrition (Approx.)

Calories: 180 per piece; Carbohydrates: 25g; Protein: 4g; Fats: 7g.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this sweet with a cappuccino or robust black coffee, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added crunch.

5. Tsoureki

Ingredients

• 500g all-purpose flour (4 cups)
• 200g sugar (1 cup)
• 100g butter, melted (½ cup)
• 250ml milk, warm (1 cup)
• 3 eggs
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1 tsp ground mahleb (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Dissolve yeast in warm milk and let sit for 10 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and optional mahleb. Form a well in the center.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and yeast mixture into the well; mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth, let it rise for 1 hour.
5. Shape the dough into braids or loaves and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for around 30-35 minutes until golden.

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating

Tsoureki can be prepared ahead of time and stored wrapped in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition (Approx.)

Calories: 250 per slice; Carbohydrates: 35g; Protein: 7g; Fats: 9g.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy with a cup of Greek coffee or milk, garnished with a spread of almond or hazelnut butter for a special treat.

6. Kourabiedes

Ingredients

• 250g all-purpose flour (2 cups)
• 125g unsalted butter, softened (½ cup)
• 100g powdered sugar (1 cup, plus more for dusting)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 50g almonds, toasted (⅓ cup)
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Add the vanilla and salt, mixing until well incorporated.
4. Slowly add the flour and toasted almonds, blending just until combined—avoid over-mixing.
5. Shape the dough into small balls or crescent forms and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow to cool before dusting with powdered sugar.

Variations & Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with almond flour. You can also try using pecans instead of almonds for a different flavor.

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer preservation.

Nutrition (Approx.)

Calories: 150 per cookie; Carbohydrates: 20g; Protein: 2g; Fats: 7g.

Serving Suggestions

Pair kourabiedes with a robust Greek coffee or a sweet dessert wine. For a touch of elegance, serve on a food-safe platter with seasonal berries.

7. Greek Almond Cookies (Amigdalota)

Ingredients

• 250g almond flour (2 cups)
• 150g powdered sugar (1 cup)
• 2 egg whites
• 1 tsp almond extract
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F).
2. In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
3. Add the egg whites and almond extract, stirring until well combined.
4. Shape the dough into small balls, place them on a lined baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating

These cookies can be made a week in advance and stored in an airtight container, perfect for holiday preparation.

Nutrition (Approx.)

Calories: 90 per cookie; Carbohydrates: 10g; Protein: 3g; Fats: 5g.

Serving Suggestions

Best served with a glass of lemonade or tea, garnished with a sprinkle of slivered almonds on top.

8. Finikia

Ingredients

• 250g all-purpose flour (2 cups)
• 150g sugar (¾ cup)
• 100g olive oil (⅓ cup)
• 200ml orange juice (¾ cup)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Honey, for drizzling

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Mix flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and sugar in a bowl.
3. Stir in olive oil and orange juice until a soft dough forms.
4. Shape the dough into small oval cookies and place them on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden, then drizzle with honey while still warm.

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating

Finikia can be prepared in advance and stored in a cool, dry place for about a week. Honey may solidify; simply warm slightly for refreshing.

Nutrition (Approx.)

Calories: 100 per cookie; Carbohydrates: 14g; Protein: 2g; Fats: 4g.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a light herbal tea or coffee, garnished with a sprig of mint for a fresh touch.

9. Galaktoboureko

Ingredients

• 250g phyllo pastry (1 package)
• 250g semolina (1½ cups)
• 750ml milk (3 cups)
• 150g butter, melted (⅔ cup)
• 150g sugar (¾ cup)
• 5 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a saucepan, heat milk and sugar until dissolved; stir in semolina to thicken.
3. Whisk in eggs and vanilla, mixing well, then remove from heat.
4. Layer phyllo sheets, brushing each with butter, in a baking dish. Add the filling and cover with more phyllo.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden, then pour a simple syrup over it before serving.

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating

Galaktoboureko can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge, reheating in the oven to keep the pastry crisp.

Nutrition (Approx.)

Calories: 240 per piece; Carbohydrates: 30g; Protein: 6g; Fats: 12g.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess and enjoy with herbal tea or a dessert wine.

10. Tsoureki

Ingredients

• 500g flour (4 cups)
• 200g sugar (1 cup)
• 100g melted butter (½ cup)
• 250ml milk (1 cup)
• 3 eggs
• 1 packet yeast
• 1 tsp ground mahleb (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Dissolve yeast in milk, set aside for 10 minutes.
2. Mix flour, sugar, mahleb, and eggs in a bowl, creating a well in the center.
3. Add the wet ingredients and knead until smooth. Allow to rise until doubled.
4. Shape and braid the dough, then place in a baking pan for another rise.
5. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating

Tsoureki can be prepared ahead of time and stored wrapped tightly in foil. Can be frozen for later enjoyment.

Nutrition (Approx.)

Calories: 300 per slice; Carbohydrates: 45g; Protein: 9g; Fats: 10g.

Serving Suggestions

Accentuate the experience with a strong Greek coffee or a sweet dessert wine, layered on a festive table with fruits for contrast.

FAQs

How long should these cookies cool before serving?

Most cookies will need about 15-20 minutes to cool, allowing them to set and improve their flavors.

Can I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?

Absolutely! Many cookies can be adjusted for gluten-free or vegan diets. Refer to each cookie for specific substitutions.

How do I maintain the crispness of phyllo pastries?

Keep them covered while working and serve immediately after baking for optimal texture.

Is it necessary to chill cookie dough?

Chilling is often recommended for better shaping and texture, especially for doughs that contain butter.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Many of these cookies freeze well. Ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

How do I prevent over-browning of cookies?

Monitor baking time closely and cover with aluminum foil if they brown too quickly in the last few minutes of baking.

Conclusion

This holiday season, delight your family and friends with these traditional Greek cookies that capture the essence of Greek culture and culinary art. With easy-to-follow recipes, rich flavor profiles, and charming presentation ideas, you can create a delightful assortment of treats. Embrace authentic Greek techniques at home, and don’t forget to share your cookie adventures with us. Happy baking!