Traditional Kourabia - Armenian Shortbread Cookies

If there is one thing you must know about Armenians, you must know that we love our sweets! Having a plethora of cookies and pastries to choose from on a daily basis (especially around the holidays) is a big part of the Armenian culture and cuisine. Kourabia is a traditional Armenian shortbread cookie that melts in your mouth. They taste great plain or served with hot mint tea. Kids love them too!
Level: Beginner Prep time: 10 minutes Bake time: 15 minutes Servings: 2 dozen
INGREDIENTS
1 c. butter, room temp 1 c. confectioners’ sugar 1 egg yolk pinch of salt 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour pistachios for garnish
SUPPLIES
Wooden Spoon Large mixing bowl Cookie sheet (2) Wire cooling rack Oven

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large bowl, mix together butter, confectioners’ sugar, egg yolk salt and vanilla extract until creamy.
Slowly add flour. Lightly kneed with hands until the ingredients are combined
Pinch off a walnut sized piece of dough. In your palms, roll the dough into a rope shape, 3-4 inches long. Shape into a circle and press rope ends together with your thumb. Press a pistachio nut into the rope ends for added security. Continue this process until all the dough is used.
Bake for no more than 15 minutes. Color should hardly change at all.
Cool for 5-10 minutes.