If you’re looking to add the flavors of Greece to your Christmas baking traditions, look no further than Koulorakia Me Lado – Greek olive oil biscuits. These delightful treats are a staple in Greek households during the festive season, offering a unique twist to the usual cookies and sweets. Loaded with the wholesome richness of olive oil, these biscuits are a perfect combination of light, crunchy, and subtly sweet. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will fill your home with the warm scents of the Mediterranean.
Koulorakia Me Lado – Greek Olive Oil Biscuits
Ingredients:
– 1 cup olive oil
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh orange juice
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 4 ½ – 5 cups all-purpose flour
– Sesame seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This will ensure your Koulorakia Me Lado bake evenly without sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil and sugar until well combined and slightly creamy. This step is crucial for ensuring the right texture and flavor of your biscuits.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The eggs will help bind the ingredients together and provide structure to your biscuits.
4. Pour in the fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. These ingredients will infuse your biscuits with a refreshing citrus aroma and enhance the overall taste.
5. Gradually add the baking powder and start incorporating the flour, 1 cup at a time. Mix the ingredients well until a soft dough forms. The consistency should be smooth and slightly sticky.
6. Dust your work surface with flour and transfer the dough. Knead gently for a few minutes until it becomes pliable and easy to work with. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour as needed.
7. Pinch off a small portion of the dough and roll it into a rope about 7 inches long. Shape it into a twist or knot, forming the classic Koulorakia cookie shape. Repeat with the remaining dough.
8. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space in between to allow for expansion during baking. If desired, sprinkle the tops with sesame seeds for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the Koulorakia Me Lado are golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
10. Once baked, remove the biscuits from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. The cooling process will help them firm up and develop the perfect texture.
Enjoy these delightful Koulorakia Me Lado with a cup of Greek coffee or hot tea, and savor the unique flavors of Greece in every bite. These biscuits also make lovely gifts for friends and family during the holiday season, spreading warmth and cheer wherever they go. Add this traditional Greek recipe to your Christmas baking repertoire and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy baking!
