Spring is a time for celebration, and what better way to welcome the season than with delicious Lebanese Easter cookies? These delightful treats are not just about taste; they carry a rich cultural tradition that enhances your festive gatherings. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Lebanese Easter Cookies
These cookies, known as “Maamoul,” are filled with dates, nuts, or figs, and they’re a staple during Easter celebrations in Lebanese households. The sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture and fragrant spices make them a favorite during this joyous season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mahlab (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water (as needed)
- Filling options (dates, walnuts, almonds, or figs)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, semolina, and salt.
- Add the softened butter and powdered sugar to the dry ingredients. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Incorporate the ground mahlab and cinnamon into the mixture, adding a delightful flavor. If you’d like to add extra nuttiness, chop your chosen nuts finely and mix them in as well.
- Gradually add warm water until you create a soft, pliable dough. Knead gently for a few minutes until the dough is smooth.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- While the dough rests, prepare the filling by combining your selected ingredients. If you’re using dates, remove the pits and mash them until smooth. For nuts, simply chop them into small pieces.
- After resting, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pinch off small pieces of dough and flatten them into circles in your palm. Place a spoonful of filling in the center and fold the edges over, molding it into a round shape.
- Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them a few inches apart.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.
Once cool, you can dust the cookies with powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness and elegance. These Lebanese Easter cookies not only taste fantastic but also bring a beautiful tradition to your holiday table. Enjoy the flavor of spring with every delightful bite!