Traditional Lebanese cookies filled with a sweet date mixture, perfect for festive occasions or as a delightful treat.
Preparation time
1h 30min
Cooking time
25min
Ingredients
20 Servings
- 200 grams all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 250 grams butter
- 50 grams butter
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 500 grams dates
- 1 tsp mahlab
- 100 ml milk
- 50 grams powdered sugar
- 500 grams semolina
- 50 grams sugar
Directions
Step 1
In a large bowl, combine semolina, all-purpose flour, and granulated sugar.
Step 2
Add melted butter to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
Step 3
Pour warm milk into the mixture and knead until you get a soft dough. Cover and let it rest for 1 hour.
Step 4
To prepare the filling, process the pitted dates in a food processor until a paste forms. Add 50 grams of melted butter and ground cinnamon to the date paste and mix well.
Step 5
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 6
Take a small piece of dough and flatten it in your hand. Place a small amount of date filling in the center and fold the dough over to enclose the filling. Shape it into a ball or use a maamoul mold to shape it.
Step 7
Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 8
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 9
Allow the cookies to cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.