Similar to the comforting flavors of the Christmas season, Greek baking traditions bring a warmth to our homes that is truly special. In Greek culture, the holiday season calls for delightful sweet treats that are rich in flavor and tradition. One such beloved recipe is Melokouloura Honey Spiced Cookies. These cookies are a joy to make and even better to eat, infusing your home with the sweet scents of honey and warm spices. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a staple in your Christmas baking repertoire.
Melokouloura Honey Spiced Cookies
Ingredients:
– 1 cup olive oil
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup fresh orange juice
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1 cup honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup brandy
– Approximately 6 cups all-purpose flour
– Chopped nuts or sesame seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil and sugar. Beat together until well combined and slightly creamy.
2. Add the fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and baking powder to the bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Slowly add the brandy to the mixture, stirring continuously.
4. Begin adding the flour, 1 cup at a time, and mix the dough until it becomes stiff and easy to handle. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Take a small portion of dough and shape it into a small ball using your hands. Place it on the lined baking sheet.
7. If desired, top the cookies with chopped nuts or sesame seeds for an extra crunch and flavor.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn a golden brown color.
9. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.
10. Once cooled, these Melokouloura Honey Spiced Cookies are ready to be enjoyed with a cup of hot tea or coffee, or shared with loved ones as a delightful holiday treat.
These Melokouloura Honey Spiced Cookies are a wonderful addition to any Christmas celebration. Their aromatic blend of honey, spices, and citrus flavors will surely impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking to start a new holiday tradition or simply add a delightful twist to your cookie jar, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy the process of baking these festive treats and savor every bite of these delicious cookies that capture the essence of Greek holiday cheer. Wishing you a warm and joyous holiday season filled with love, laughter, and of course, delectable homemade goodies like these Melokouloura Honey Spiced Cookies.
