These Melt in Your Mouth! ☁️ Ultimate Kourabiedes Recipe

In this video, I’ll show you how to make the ultimate Kourabiedes (pronounced Kourabiethes)! These traditional Greek Butter Cookies are famous for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich toasted almond flavor. Whether you’re baking for Christmas or just want a delicious snowball cookie, this authentic recipe is foolproof.

These Greek Christmas cookies are similar to shortbread or Mexican wedding cookies but better—thanks to the splash of brandy (or ouzo) and high-quality butter. Let’s get baking!

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📝 FULL KOURABIEDES RECIPE Yields approx. 30-40 cookies

Ingredients:

2 cups (450g) Unsalted butter, softened (Room temp is key!)
1/2 cup (60g) Powdered sugar (for the dough)
1 Large egg (Optional – adds structure)
1 tsp Vanilla extract
2 tsp Brandy or Ouzo (Traditional secret ingredient!)
4 cups (480g) All-purpose flour
1/2 tsp Baking powder
1/4 tsp Salt
1 cup (120g) Blanched almonds, lightly toasted
~2 cups Powdered sugar for generous dusting
Instructions:

Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Toast Almonds: Lightly toast almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden. Set aside to cool.
Cream Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and pale. Add 1/2 cup powdered sugar, vanilla, and brandy/ouzo. Mix until smooth. Beat in the egg (if using).
Make the Dough: Gradually mix in flour, baking powder, and salt until a soft dough forms. Gently fold in the toasted almonds.
Shape: Form dough into small balls or slightly flattened rounds (approx. 1.5 inches). Place on baking sheet with space between them.
Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes. Tip: Bottoms should be lightly golden, but tops should remain pale/white!
The Sugar Bath: Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. While still warm (but not hot), roll generously in powdered sugar.
Final Touch: Once fully cooled, dust them again for that snowy look.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for 2–3 weeks. They taste even better the next day!

👇 QUESTION OF THE DAY Do you prefer your Kourabiedes with or without the cloves? Let me know in the comments!

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