Loukoumathes: A Greek Hanukkah Tradition

Loukoumathes are small donuts, delightful light-as-air puffs. In many areas of Greece, loukoumathes (also loukoumades) are a New Year's Eve tradition, and they are also made to celebrate the name day of St. Barbara (December 4). The Greek Jewish community also includes these small honeyed puffs at Hanukkah.

This basic recipe for Loukoumathes calls for a hefty helping of baking powder to create these light puffs of fried dough that are drizzled with honey and sprinkled with nuts and cinnamon.

Loukoumathes Recipes

• Basic Loukoumathes
• Loukoumathes with Yogurt
• Orange Loukoumathes in Syrup
• Loukoumathes with Step by Step Photos

Virtual Holiday Cookie Exchange

We wind up our cookie exchange with these festive and delicious Iced Cranberry-Orange Cookies from our Guide to Southern Food. The cookies are flavored with orange juice concentrate and filled with plump dried cranberries - sure to be a hit with family and holiday guests.

Greek Christmas & New Year's Recipes

_{Photo of Loukoumathes and Menorah © N. Gaifyllia, licensed to About.com, Inc.}

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