Melomakarona – Christmas Honey Cookies

Syrup:

1. In a saucepan, bring the water, sugar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and halved orange to a boil.
2. Once boiled, let is simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and add the honey. Stir well and allow the syrup to cool.

Dough:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients from Mix 1 and whisk well.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the ingredients from Mix 2.
4. Gradually add the liquid mixture (Mix 2) to the dry mixture (Mix 1). Gently mix with your hands for no more than 10 seconds to avoid overmixing.
5. Shape the dough into ovals, approximately 3–4 cm in diameter (30 grams each).
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

Assembly:

1. While still hot, immerse the baked melomakarona in the cold syrup for 10–15 seconds.
2. Strain them and sprinkle with honey and walnuts before serving!