Possibly the most loved cookie in Greece, these fabulous shortbread treats are served at any and every possible occasion. We make them at the holidays and for special occasions, like weddings and baptisms. They are made in large quantities, so if there are any left over, send them home with your guests!
Kourabiethes can be made large or small, round or oval. This is my favorite and yields 60-80 cookies.
Ingredients (in order):
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/3 cup of brandy *
- 3 egg whites
- 1 egg yolk
- 3 cups of unsalted butter (6 1/4 sticks), softened
- 1 13/ cups + 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 cup of confectioner's sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons of cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups of unsalted toasted almonds, chopped in large pieces
- 12 1/2 cups (approximately) of all-purpose flour (about 3 1/2 pounds)
- 2 or more pounds of confectioner's sugar for topping
* If you want to avoid alcohol, use orange juice instead of brandy.