Best 2 Koulourakia Greek Twists Recipes

Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with the delightful flavors of Greece? Look no further than the beloved koulourakia, also known as Greek twists. These twisted cookies have a rich history, dating back centuries, and hold a special place in Greek culture. With their crispy exterior and soft, buttery interior, koulourakia are the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this guide will provide you with all the essential information and tips you need to create these delectable treats in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let's embark on a culinary journey to Greece with the irresistible koulourakia.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

GREEK HONEY AND ANISE TWISTS (KOULOURAKIA)

Greek Honey and Anise Twists (Koulourakia) image

Traditionally, these Greek cookies, known as koulourakia, are formed into rings, twists and half circles. In this recipe, they are shaped into bow ties and twists, then glazed with anise-flavored honey. These are delicately sweet and nice with coffee.

Categories Cookies Mixer Dessert Bake Lemon Honey Anise Sesame Bon Appétit Kidney Friendly Vegetarian Pescatarian Peanut Free Tree Nut Free Soy Free Kosher

Yield Makes about 5 dozen

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

1/3 cup honey
4 tablespoons anise-flavored liqueur, such as Marie Brizard
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
4 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1 1/2 tablespoons aniseed
2 teaspoons finely grated lemon peel
Sesame seeds

Steps:

Mix honey, 2 tablespoons liqueur and juice in small bowl. Set glaze aside.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly butter baking sheets. Combine flour, salt and baking powder in medium bowl. Using electric mixer, beat butter and sugar in large bowl until fluffy. Add eggs 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in remaining 2 tablespoons liqueur, aniseed and lemon peel. Gradually mix in dry ingredients.
Working with 1 tablespoon dough at a time, roll dough between palms and work surface into 7-inch ropes. Form into bow ties or twists. Place on prepared baking sheets, spacing evenly. Brush glaze over cookies. Sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake cookies until pale golden, about 15 minutes. Transfer cookies to racks. Lightly brush cookies again with glaze. Cool. (Can be made ahead. Store in airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week, or freeze up to 1 month.)

KOULOURAKIA "GREEK TWISTS"

Koulourakia

Add an additional 1/4 stick unsalted butter if you want a moister cookie. 1 pound of shortening can be substituted for the 1/2 pound of unsalted butter if desired.

Provided by Ralph Bischoff

Categories Cookies

Time 1h15m

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

2 stick unsalted butter
3/4 c milk
2 eggs
5 3/4 c all purpose flour
sesame seeds
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 c sugar
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp anise
1 tsp vanilla
1 egg for topping
GREEK TWIST COOKIES "KOULOURAKIA"

Steps:

1. Melt Butter and beat until smooth. Add eggs (one at a time) beating after each addition. Combine milk to sugar and stir until dissolved. Add butter to mixture and keep beating.
2. Blend baking powder with 1 cup flour and add to butter mixture. Add cinnamon, vanilla and anise and beat slightly. Gradually add mixture to remaining flour, knead it by hand until a stiff dough is formed. Shape as desired; place on a greased cookie sheet; brush tops with an additional beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees until golden brown ( 10 to 15 minutes)
3. I make a small ball and then roll it out until I get a stick about 3/8" in dia and 6" long. Makes 6 to 8 dozen depending on thickness. "MAKE AN ONX"

Tips:

Use cold butter: Cold butter is easier to work with and will help the koulourakia keep their shape.
Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy: This will help the koulourakia be light and airy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition: This will help prevent the batter from curdling.
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before shaping: This will help the dough be easier to handle and will prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
Shape the dough into twists or other desired shapes: Be careful not to overhandle the dough, as this can make it tough.
Bake the koulourakia until they are golden brown: This will ensure that they are cooked through.
Let the koulourakia cool on a wire rack before serving: This will help them to set and will prevent them from breaking.

Conclusion:

Koulourakia are a delicious and easy-to-make Greek cookie that is perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can enjoy these tasty treats in no time. So next time you're looking for a sweet and satisfying snack, give koulourakia a try!