Twisted Recipes for Melomakarona, Kourabiedes, and Mini Apple Pies: Modern Takes on Classic Desserts

The holidays are synonymous with tradition, but for many, the kitchen is also a space for creativity and experimentation. Classic Greek desserts such as melomakarona, kourabiedes, and mini apple pies serve as the perfect canvas for variations that refresh flavors and impress with their originality. Below are three innovative recipes that blend tradition with a modern twist.

1. Melomakarona with Chocolate and Peanut Butter Filling

Melomakarona is one of the most beloved Christmas treats, but this version adds a sweet twist with chocolate and peanut butter.

Ingredients:

500 g all-purpose flour

200 ml olive oil

100 ml sunflower oil

100 ml orange juice

50 ml brandy

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp clove powder

2 tbsp powdered sugar

100 g peanut butter (for filling)

200 g dark chocolate (melted)

Honey for syruping

Instructions:

Mix the olive oil, sunflower oil, orange juice, and brandy.

Add the spices, sugar, and gradually the flour with the baking powder.

Shape small balls, make a small indentation in the center, and add a bit of peanut butter.

Close and shape into traditional melomakarona form.

Bake at 180°C for 20 minutes.

Once cooled, dip in honey syrup and coat with melted chocolate.

2. Kourabiedes with Cream Filling and Mastic Flavor

In this version, kourabiedes achieve a more delicate texture thanks to a cream filling infused with mastic.

Ingredients:

250 g cow butter (at room temperature)

100 g powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp mastic powder

100 g roasted and coarsely chopped almonds

350 g all-purpose flour

Powdered sugar for dusting

For the filling:

200 g cream cheese

2 tbsp powdered sugar

1/4 tsp mastic powder

Instructions:

Beat the butter with the powdered sugar until fluffy.

Add the vanilla, mastic, and gradually the flour.

Shape small balls and create small "nests."

Fill with the cream cheese and mastic mixture, then carefully close them.

Bake at 160°C for 20-25 minutes.

Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar.

3. Mini Apple Pies with Cinnamon Crunch and Caramel Filling

This take on the classic mini apple pie incorporates a rich caramel flavor and an irresistible cinnamon crunch topping.

Ingredients for the dough:

300 g all-purpose flour

150 g cold butter

1 tbsp sugar

1 pinch salt

3-4 tbsp ice water

For the filling:

3 large apples (cut into cubes)

100 g brown sugar

2 tbsp butter

1 tsp cinnamon

100 g caramel (store-bought or homemade)

For the crust topping:

50 g melted butter

2 tbsp brown sugar

1/2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

Prepare the dough by mixing the flour, butter, salt, and water. Chill for 30 minutes.

Sauté the apples with butter, sugar, and cinnamon until caramelized.

Roll out the dough and cut into small circles.

Fill each circle with the apple mixture and a bit of caramel.

Seal well, brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.

Bake at 180°C for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

These twisted recipes for the famous Greek Christmas desserts, melomakarona, kourabiedes, and mini apple pies offer a fresh and creative take on traditional holiday treats. The flavors remain familiar but take on new dimensions that are sure to impress your guests and make your festive table even more special.