Koulourakia are traditional Greek biscuits typically made around Easter.
These butter-based pastries are commonly prepared for the period after Holy Saturday, when Greek Orthodox Christians celebrate Easter and traditionally break the Lenten fast. They are usually sweet and delicate, with vanilla often added, and are finished with an egg glaze that gives them a golden surface.
Koulourakia are recognisable for their many hand-shaped forms. Bakers make spirals, braided circles, twists, figure eights, wreaths, horseshoes and Greek-letter shapes. Sesame seeds are common, and some versions include a clove in the centre. They are often served with morning coffee or afternoon tea.
The name is related to a diminutive Greek word for a ring-shaped loaf or roll. Although their strongest modern association is with Easter, the biscuits are enjoyed more broadly as a home-baked treat. Accounts also connect their preparation with the ancient Minoan civilisation, where similar pastries were sometimes shaped like snakes.