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Easy Vanilla Cookies – Fluffy & Aromatic with Simple Pantry Ingredients

These easy Greek vanilla cookies are soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and bursting with the aroma of vanilla and orange zest. They are the perfect cookies to enjoy with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk, and their simple ingredients make them ideal for everyday baking. Shape them into twists, braids, or any design you like – they always come out golden, fragrant, and irresistible.

Easy Vanilla Cookies – Fluffy & Aromatic with Simple Pantry Ingredients

Recipe by George Zolis
5.0 from 1 vote
Course: Cookies and BiscuitsCuisine: GreekDifficulty: Easy
Servings

55

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Calories

84

kcal
Total time

55

minutes

These Greek vanilla cookies are light, fluffy, and fragrant with vanilla and orange zest.

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Ingredients

  • For the Cookies
  • 5 5 Large Eggs

  • 250 g 9 oz Butter, at room temperature

  • 350 g 1 3/4 cup Sugar

  • 150 g 2/3 cup Milk

  • 3 3 Vanillin Capsules

  • 1 pinch 1 pinch Salt

  • Zest of 2 oranges (or 1 tsp dried orange powder)

  • 1 kg 8 cup All-purpose flour

  • 2 tsp 2 tsp Baking Powder

  • For Brushing
  • 1 1 Egg

  • 1 shot 1 shot Glass Water

How to make Greek Vanilla Cookies

  • In a mixing bowl, add the eggs, sugar, pinch of salt, vanilla, and orange zest. Beat with a mixer for 3–5 minutes until the mixture becomes fluffy.
  • Add the softened butter and mix briefly on low speed.
  • In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Gradually add to the wet mixture while mixing.
  • Pour in the milk and mix until you have a soft dough that doesn’t stick to your hands.
  • Let the dough rest for 15 minutes.
  • Divide the dough into 30 g (1 oz) portions. Shape each into twists, braids, or the design of your choice.
  • Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • In a small bowl, beat the egg with the water and brush the cookies with the mixture.
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for 20–25 minutes, until golden.

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The Tradition of Greek Vanilla Cookies

Koulourakia with vanilla are one of the most beloved Greek treats, often baked during Easter but also enjoyed year-round with coffee or tea. Their delicate crunch and fragrant flavor make them a timeless favorite.

Κουλουράκια Βανίλιας - Vanilla Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Uses basic pantry ingredients you already have at home.
  • Lightly sweet with a hint of orange and vanilla aroma.
  • Flexible: shape them into braids, twists, or rounds.
  • Perfect for snacking, coffee time, or gifting.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

  • Make sure your butter is room temperature for easy mixing.
  • Don’t overbake – remove them once golden brown for the best texture.
  • Store in an airtight container or tin box so they stay fresh and crisp.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.

Can I freeze the cookies?

Absolutely. Once baked and cooled, store them in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.

What’s the best way to keep them soft?

Store in a tin box or airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 1 week.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different. Butter gives the best aroma and traditional taste.

Nutrition Facts

55 servings per container


Calories84

  • Amount Per Serving% Daily Value *
  • Total Fat 4.1g 7%
    • Saturated Fat 2.4g 10%
  • Cholesterol 21mg 8%
  • Sodium 28mg 2%
  • Amount Per Serving% Daily Value *
  • Total Carbohydrate 11g 4%
    • Dietary Fiber 0.3g 0%
    • Sugars 5g
  • Protein 1.4g 2%

    * The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.