Sugar-coated biscuits (Kourambiethes)
Kourambiethes are the traditional Christmas sweets all over Greece. They are sold in Greek pastry shops or can be found packaged in supermarkets. In any case, it is customary to prepare kourambiethes at Christmas in every Greek house. 2 cups Sitia Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1/2 cup sugar 4 tablespoons brandy 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 whole egg and 1 yolk 1 cup almonds, roasted and coarsely ground 3 cups (approx.) all purpose flour 2 - 3 cups confectionery sugarIn a large bowl, beat the olive oil and sugar thoroughly and continue with eggs, brandy, cinnamon, almonds and slowly add the flour until you have soft dough which does not stick to your hands. Take pieces of dough the size of a walnut and shape round, oblong or oval biscuits. Place on an oiled baking pan or cookie sheet and bake in moderate heat (350° F) for 15 - 20 minutes. Remove from oven, let the kourambiethes cool slightly and sift the confectionery sugar over them until they are completely covered.