Melomakarona (Honey Christmas cookies)

[Updated 11/03/2025]

Every country has a recipe for xmas cookies, find today here the greek way :)
It's full of honey, cinnamon and walnuts! You will be surprised how tasty they are although quite sweet and heavy in calories... Despite this, when I make them for Xmas, we tend to finish them so fast that I have to redo for Xmas once again :)
Not many succeed to make them in Greece, so do not underestimate my recipe as it is a sure one for success... and I share it today with you together with the small secret that goes with it ;)



Ingredients (for about 40 cookies)

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (optionally, replace 1 cup with semolina)
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp salt
• Zest of an untreated orange
• 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
• ½  cup orange juice
• ¼ cup brandy
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (for garnish)

For the Syrup

• ¾ cup honey (of excellent quality)
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1-2 slices of lemon

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, orange zest, and brandy.
4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients to form a dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
5. Roll the dough into small balls, then shape them into ovals (a bit bigger than a walnut).
6. Place the shaped cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and flatten them slightly.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cookies are golden and firm.
8. While the cookies are baking, prepare the syrup. Combine the honey, water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and lemon slices in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
9. Once the cookies are done baking, transfer the cookies to a small but deeper dish and pour slowly the warm syrup on them. Let them soak the syrup for as much time is needed (around an hour). Then, remove and place them on a plate.
10. Garnish with a mix of chopped walnuts, cinnamon and sugar while still warm.

Serving Tips & Variations

Serve Melomakarona at room temperature for the best texture, allowing the honey syrup to soften the cookies. They pair wonderfully with a strong cup of Greek coffee or tea. These cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings or keeping for yourself—store them in an airtight container to enjoy for days! For a luxury version, roll them in dark chocolate.

Don't they look great? And they taste even better... Eat with moderation :)