Kourabiedes

Maria Anastasi’s recipe

Sweet crumbly almond cakes. Traditionally for special occasion. But make these any time and the occasion will be special. Thank you Maria.

KOURABIEDES

SERVES: about 25 to thirty cakes, depending on size

PREP TIME: 20 - 30 mins

COOKING TIME: 20 mins

INGREDIENTS:

100g Trex

100g unsalted butter

140g icing sugar

200g toasted and chopped almonds

1 tsp vanilla

1 small egg

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice

1 tablespoon brandy

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda

150g plain flour

150g self raising flour

METHOD:

Pre heat oven to 180 degrees
Toast almonds in a frying pan then roughly chop
Beat butter and Trex really well for at least 5 minutes
Add icing sugar and vanilla and beat well so mixture is smooth and creamy
Add baking powder, bicarbonate soda, brandy, almonds, orange juice and eggs gradually and keep mixing. Gradually add flour .
Consistency of mixture should be thick enough so you can roll out in a sausage shape and cut in diamond shape pieces. You might not need all the flour.
I also use star shape cutters
Bake for approx 20 minutes or until they are golden brown and not too soft 
When they have cooled down, cover them with icing sugar (sift sugar until they are covered), make a cup of tea (or coffee Maria) and enjoy! !!!!

PS some people sprinkle with rose water before icing them, but I didn't do it this year.