Beloved for their delicate flavor and crumbly texture, Kourabiedes Me Kanela, or Cinnamon Shortbread, are a traditional Greek Christmas treat that brings warmth and joy to the holiday season. These buttery cookies dusted with powdered sugar are a must-have at festive gatherings, gift exchanges, or simply enjoyed with a cup of hot tea on a cozy winter evening. The heavenly aroma of cinnamon combined with the rich buttery taste makes them irresistible to anyone who tries them. Let’s get started on baking these delightful treats so you can bring a taste of Greece to your holiday celebrations!
**Kourabiedes Me Kanela – Cinnamon Shortbread**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Additional powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and salt until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and almond flour to the mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the dough.
5. Using your hands, shape the dough into small rounds or crescent shapes, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each to allow for slight spreading.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the bottoms of the cookies are lightly golden brown.
8. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
9. While the cookies are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar, coating them completely.
10. Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely before serving.
These Kourabiedes Me Kanela are the perfect treat to enjoy during the holiday season or to give as a delightful homemade gift to friends and family. Their buttery flavor, hint of cinnamon, and snowy dusting of powdered sugar make them a festive addition to any table. Whether you serve them at a holiday gathering or enjoy them as a sweet indulgence at home, these Greek Cinnamon Shortbread cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of these delightful treats fill your home with the spirit of the season. Happy baking and happy holidays!
