Paximadia or Paximathia, Greek biscotti

Paximathia (Παξιμάδια) are twice-baked biscuits which are lightly sweet and delicious.

Greeks savour paximadia year-round, yet it holds a distinct significance as a dessert served during gatherings after funerals and visitations at funeral homes. When paying condolences to someone in mourning, it's customary to bring a box of paximadia. Unlike diples and kourabiethes, which are linked with celebrations and joyful events, paximadia's less sweet flavour makes it fitting for sombre occasions.

Want to know how to make them? Follow our recipe here-

Ingredients

• 1 packet of dry yeast
• 800ml of warm water
• 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/2 cup of oil
• 1.5 kg of plain flour
• 1 egg for egg wash
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Steps to make Paximathia

1. Active the yeast.
2. Add 2-3 cups of sifted flour. Mix well.
3. Cover with a clean cloth and allow to 'prove', approximately 1/2 hour.
4. In a mixing bowl, add the warm water, salt, orange juice, cinnamon and yeast mixture.
5. Start adding the flour and knead well to a soft dough.
6. Cover and leave to rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour.
7. When the dough is well-risen, make it into long loaves and place it on an oven tray.
8. Cover again and leave for 1/2 hour to rise again.
9. Mix 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of water and brush the loaves with the egg wash. Sprinkle with sesame seeds (optional).
10. Cook in oven at 180°C for 1 hour.
11. Remove from the oven, and carefully slice through the dough while still hot.
12. Lay slices on their side and return to oven. Make sure they do not burn.
13. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
14. Enjoy!

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