Traditional Greek Easter Cookies

Koulourakia are buttery, sweet Greek cookies that are traditionally made for Easter but can be enjoyed throughout the year. These twisted cookies are flavored with vanilla and have a lightly sweet taste that is perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. This recipe yields a batch of cookies that are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 egg yolk, beaten, for brushing

Directions

1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Take a small piece of dough and roll it into a long rope, about 6 inches long.
7. Twist the rope into a figure-eight shape, then place it on the baking sheet.
8. Repeat with the remaining dough, placing the cookies 1 inch apart on the baking sheet.
9. Brush the tops of the cookies with the beaten egg yolk.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden brown.
11. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Interesting Facts