KOULOURAKIA | Greek Easter Biscuits

Posted on August 18, 2024January 6, 2025 by Mary Politis

Koulourakia: The Sweet, Butter-Filled Greek Treat That Celebrates Easter

Easter is a time of great significance in Greek culture—it's a celebration of life, renewal, and tradition. One of the most beloved symbols of the season is Koulourakia: a buttery, sweet Greek cookie that has been a part of Easter celebrations for generations. With their signature braided or twisted shapes, golden-brown crusts, and delicate flavours, Koulourakia hold a special place in the hearts of Greeks, whether they're enjoyed with coffee on Easter Sunday or shared with family and friends during the festive days leading up to the holiday.

What are Koulourakia?

Koulourakia (pronounced koo-loo-RAH-kee-ah) are traditional Greek cookies that are typically baked during Easter and served to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The name "Koulourakia" comes from the Greek word "kouloura", meaning "circle" or "ring", and the cookies are often shaped into various forms, including braids, twists, or simple circular shapes.

What sets these cookies apart from other types of Greek sweets is their rich, buttery flavour and their soft, slightly crumbly texture. They are usually lightly sweetened and often flavoured with a touch of vanilla, orange zest, or mastica, like our recipe.

In Greece, Koulourakia are more than just a treat—they are an essential part of the Easter celebration. They are often prepared ahead of time, allowing family members to gather in the kitchen, bake together, and bond over the shared joy of creating these symbolic cookies.

The Tradition Behind Koulourakia

Koulourakia are typically associated with Greek Orthodox Easter, one of the most important religious holidays in Greece. During Easter, Greek families prepare a variety of festive foods to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, and Koulourakia are among the highlights of the sweet offerings.

Historically, Koulourakia were made to symbolize renewal and new life, which align with the religious meaning of Easter. The braiding of the dough represents the intertwining of faith and family, while the golden colour of the cookies mirrors the light of the resurrection. In many families, making Koulourakia is a cherished annual tradition—one that is passed down through generations.

In some regions of Greece, Koulourakia are also offered as gifts to neighbours, family, and friends during the Easter season, along with other festive treats like Tsoureki (Greek Easter bread) and Kokoretsi (grilled lamb intestines). They are often paired with a glass of tsipouro or ouzo, enjoyed with family, and savoured in the company of loved ones.

Purchase my Koulouraki recipe tea towel here: Koulourakia Tea Towel/

Recipe tips:

Like all Greek recipes passed down to us, flour quantities are approximate. Recipes from our mothers and grandmothers usually state “as much flour as it takes” therefore sometimes you may need to add more flour and sometimes less. It is best to use your discretion when testing out the dough to see if it rolls perfectly into a Koulouraki. If the mixture is still too soft, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until you reach the perfect workable consistency.