Almond Crescents (Kourabiedes)

May 08, 2023May 8, 20230 1

Traditional Greek Almond Crescents (Kourabiedes) for the sweet tooth

by The Chefin Dessert

Prep

30 min

Cook

25 min

Ready In

55 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

186

Sugar

10g

Fat

15g

Kourabiedes are a festive traditional Greek pastry often served during Christmas, New Year's Eve, weddings, and other celebrations. These bite-sized crescents are buttery, nutty, and sweet, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. They are made with simple ingredients like almond flour, butter, sugar, and brandy or vanilla, which gives them a rich flavor. Kourabiedes are usually served with a generous amount of powdered sugar sprinkled on top, which adds extra sweetness and complements the crispy exterior and soft interior of the pastry. Although Kourabiedes are traditionally served for special occasions, they are easy to make and can be enjoyed any time of year.

Instructions

1.	Preheat oven to 350°F/180°C.
2.	Beat butter and powdered sugar together until fluffy.
3.	Add the egg yolk, brandy/vanilla and almonds, and continue beating until mixture is creamy.
4.	In a separate bowl, sift flour and baking powder together, and gradually add to the butter mixture. Mix until dough is smooth.
5.	Form the dough into crescent shapes and place on a baking sheet.
6.	Bake for 20-25 mins or until golden brown.
7.	Sprinkle with powdered sugar while they are still hot, cool and sprinkle again.
8.	Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

PROS

These almond crescents are delicious, buttery, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
They are great to serve on a tea party or any occasion, and makes an impressive edible gift too.

CONS

These crescents are high in calories, fat, and sugar, so should be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
People with nut allergies may need to substitute almonds with another ingredient.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Almond crescents (Kourabiedes) may not be the healthiest dessert option, but almonds contain healthy fats, fiber, protein, and vitamins, that provide numerous health benefits. Almonds can help lower bad cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of heart disease, aid in weight management, support brain function, and help control blood sugar.

	1/2 cup ground almonds
	1 cup sweet butter or 1 cup margarine , softened
	2 tablespoons powdered sugar
	1 egg yolk
	1 tablespoon brandy or 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
	2 cups all-purpose flour
	1/2 teaspoon baking powder
	1 1/2 - 2 cups powdered sugar