Pastries

Melomakarona - Greek Honey Cookies

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Melomakarona - Greek Honey Cookies
Golden-brown Melomakarona dipped in honey syrup, garnished with walnuts and cinnamon.

Embrace the warmth and charm of Greek holiday traditions with Melomakarona, one of the most beloved treats served during Christmas and New Year festivities. These deliciously moist cookies are soaked in aromatic honey syrup and sprinkled with toasted walnuts, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and spice that will transport you to sunny Greek shores.

“Melomakarona: A sweet embrace of tradition and flavor.”

Ingredients

For the Cookies:
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground cloves
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3 cups flour, plus more if needed
  • 1 tsp baking soda
For the Syrup:
  • 1 cup honey
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • Juice and zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, sugar, ground cinnamon, cloves, orange zest, and lemon juice until well combined.

  2. Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the flour and baking soda, mixing gently to form a soft dough. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency.

  3. Shape the Cookies: Roll portions of the dough into 6-inch long logs, then shape them into curved horseshoes or crescents. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  4. Bake the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

  5. Prepare the Syrup: While cookies are baking, combine honey, sugar, water, lemon juice, lemon zest, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until syrupy. Remove the cinnamon stick.

  6. Soak the Cookies: Once slightly cooled, dip each cookie into the warm syrup, ensuring they are well coated but not overly saturated. Transfer them back to the baking sheet.

  7. Garnish with Walnuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the soaked cookies and let them rest until the syrup is absorbed.

Melomakarona are best enjoyed fresh, offering a delightful combination of flavors that perfectly balance sweet and spicy notes. Serve these golden treats as part of your holiday spread or any time you wish to celebrate with a touch of Greek elegance. Whether shared among loved ones or savored in quiet moments, Melomakarona will surely be cherished for their comforting taste and festive charm.

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