Sweet Ma'amoul Cookies Recipe for Your Festive Celebrations
This maamoul cookies recipe is a delightful celebration of flavors and tradition, perfect for festive occasions.
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- food processor
- - Baking tray
- - Parchment paper
- ma'amoul mold
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup Butter/Ghee Can substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- 1 cup Fine Semolina No direct substitutes.
- 2 cups Plain Flour Whole wheat flour can be used for a nuttier taste.
- 1 packet Fast Action Dried Yeast Omitting it will give denser biscuits.
- 1 cup Caster Sugar Granulated sugar can be used if caster isn't available.
- 1 tsp Salt Reduce or omit if desired.
- 2 tbsp Orange Blossom Water Can swap with rose water.
- 1 cup Milk Non-dairy alternatives work well.
Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups Dates (filling) Medjool dates are perfect.
- 2 tbsp Butter (for filling) Coconut oil is a substitute.
- 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon Nutmeg can be an interesting twist.
- 1 tsp Ground Cardamom Substitute with allspice or cinnamon.
To Serve
- 1 cup Icing Sugar Omit for a less sweet finish.
Instructions
Making Ma'amoul Cookies
- Melt the Butter: Start by melting the butter or ghee in a small saucepan over low heat. Allow it to cool slightly before adding to the mixer for optimal results.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a food processor, mix the fine semolina, plain flour, yeast, sugar, and salt together until you achieve a sandy texture.
- Blend in Wet Ingredients: Pour in the melted butter, orange blossom water, and milk, blending until a stiff dough forms. Cover this mixture and let it rest for 1 hour.
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine pitted dates, butter (or coconut oil), ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, and a splash of water. Boil for about 4-5 minutes.
- Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Take walnut-sized pieces of dough, flatten them out, and place about a teaspoon of the date mixture in the center.
- Bake: Arrange the cookies on the baking tray and bake for approximately 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them set, but not browned.
- Cool and Dust: Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool. Finish by dusting them with icing sugar before serving.
Notes
These ma'amoul cookies are perfect for sharing during festive celebrations, offering a taste of tradition and joy in every bite.