Greek Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and delicious treats. Among the many traditional baked goods enjoyed during the holiday season, one particular favorite is Koulourakia Me Kanela – Cinnamon Twists. These delightful cookies are not only a delicious treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee but also a heartwarming tradition to share with family and friends. The warm aroma of cinnamon filling the air as you bake these cookies adds a touch of magic to the holiday season.
Koulourakia Me Kanela – Cinnamon Twists
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg yolk, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until a soft dough forms. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. To shape the cookies, take a small piece of dough and roll it into a long rope about 5-6 inches long. Twist the rope gently to form a spiral shape, similar to a braid. Place the twisted cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
5. Once all the cookies are shaped and arranged on the baking sheet, brush the tops with the egg yolk wash. This will give the cookies a shiny, golden finish as they bake.
6. Bake the Koulourakia Me Kanela – Cinnamon Twists in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
7. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
8. Once the Koulourakia Me Kanela – Cinnamon Twists are completely cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy snack or package them in a festive tin to give as a delicious homemade gift.
These Cinnamon Twists are a delightful addition to your holiday baking lineup, bringing the flavors of Greece and the warmth of cinnamon to your Christmas celebrations. Whether you are baking them for your loved ones or for yourself, these cookies are sure to spread joy and cheer during the most wonderful time of the year. Enjoy the cozy tradition of baking and savoring these Koulourakia with a cup of holiday cheer!
