Chiapas-inspired Koulourakia

Ingredients

In this Chiapas-inspired version of Koulourakia, we incorporate the flavors of Chiapas cuisine by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of vanilla to the traditional Greek butter cookie recipe. These spices lend a warm and aromatic twist to the cookies, infusing them with the essence of Chiapas. We alse have the original recipe for Koulourakia, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Sesame seeds, for sprinkling Sesame seeds, for sprinkling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 13g, 5g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. 6.
   Roll the dough into small ropes, about 4 inches long, and shape them into twists or knots.
7. 7.
   Place the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
8. 8.
   Sprinkle the cookies with sesame seeds, gently pressing them into the dough.
9. 9.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.
10. 10.
    Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
• Cinnamon and nutmeg — Use freshly ground spices for the best flavor.
• Sesame seeds — Toast the sesame seeds lightly before sprinkling them on the cookies for added aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced Chiapas flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can increase the amount of sugar to 1 ¼ cups.
• These cookies are best enjoyed with a cup of Chiapas coffee or a glass of warm milk.

Serving advice

Serve the Chiapas-inspired Koulourakia as a delightful accompaniment to afternoon tea or coffee. They can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat on their own.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Chiapas-inspired Koulourakia on a platter or in a decorative tin for an inviting presentation. Dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.