Aromatic And Delicious Ma’Amoul – Lebanese Date Cookies

When I was a child, my grandma used to make the most delicious ma’amoul cookies that were always a highlight of family gatherings. I still remember the aroma of the buttery dough, the sweetness of the dates, and the nutty flavor of the crushed pistachios that filled our kitchen. I’m so thankful that she passed down her recipe to me, so that I can now share it with my own family. Whether you’re looking for a treat to impress your guests, or just want a taste of nostalgia, ma’amoul cookies are sure to please your taste buds!

Ma’amoul (Lebanese Date Cookies) Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 cup of solid vegetable shortening
• 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup of ground pistachios
• 1/4 cup of ground walnuts
• 1/4 cup of sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup of pitted and chopped dates
• 1 egg white, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons of orange blossom water

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
• In a separate bowl, cream together the shortening, sugar, pistachios, walnuts, and sesame seeds until they form a thick, creamy mixture.
• Add the dates and mix until fully incorporated.
• Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until fully combined.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg white and orange blossom water until foamy.
• Pour the foamy egg white mixture into the cookie dough and mix until fully incorporated.
• Grease a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
• Using a teaspoon, scoop out small balls of dough and place them on the baking sheet.
• Bake in the oven for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
• Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Serving size: 1 cookie (25g)
• Calories: 90
• Total Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 75mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 13g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 2g

What is ma’amoul and why is it popular in lebanon?

Ma’amoul are a traditional Middle Eastern pastry, popular in Lebanon and other countries in the region. They are small, round cookies typically made of a shortbread-like pastry dough and filled with dates, pistachios, or walnuts. Ma’amoul are often served to guests as a snack or dessert, and are particularly popular during the month of Ramadan and other religious holidays.

The popularity of ma’amoul in Lebanon and other Middle Eastern countries is due to its delicious taste, as well as its strong cultural and religious associations. Ma’amoul are often served to guests as a sign of hospitality, and their sweet flavor and unique shape make them a favorite during religious holidays like Ramadan. Additionally, ma’amoul are a beloved traditional dessert in many Lebanese and Middle Eastern communities, passed down from generation to generation.

Ma’amoul are also popular among tourists visiting the region, who often seek out the traditional pastries to get a taste of local culture. For many, ma’amoul are a symbol of the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Middle East. In Lebanon, ma’amoul can be found in most bakeries, grocery stores, and specialty shops, making them accessible for anyone who wants to try them.

Overall, ma’amoul are a beloved traditional pastry with a long history in the Middle East, particularly in Lebanon. Their delicious flavor, cultural and religious associations, and availability make them a popular treat in the region.

What is the traditional recipe for ma’amoul?

The traditional recipe for ma’amoul (Lebanese date cookies) calls for a combination of flour, sugar, ghee, orange blossom water, and dates. The dough is typically filled with ground dates mixed with orange blossom water and is then shaped into balls or ovals, typically using special molds. The shaped cookies are then decorated with traditional designs and baked in the oven. The finished result is a delicately sweet and buttery cookie that is typically served with tea or coffee.

What are the benefits of eating ma’amoul?

Ma’amoul are a nutritious and delicious treat, made with whole wheat flour and dates that are high in essential minerals and vitamins.

• Eating ma’amoul is a great way to boost energy levels, as dates contain natural sugars that provide a quick energy boost.
• Ma’amoul are also a great snack for those trying to control their weight. Dates are low in fat and calories and high in fiber, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer.
• Ma’amoul are also a great source of essential minerals and vitamins, including potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamins B and E. These nutrients are important for healthy bones, teeth, and skin.
• Dates have also been linked to a variety of other health benefits, such as improved digestion, lower cholesterol levels, and better heart health.
• Ma’amoul are also easy to make at home, allowing you to create a delicious snack with minimal effort.

How are ma’amoul unique compared to other cookies?

Ma’amoul cookies are unique from other cookies in many ways. For starters, they are made from a combination of semolina and farina flour, giving them a unique texture. They are filled with a variety of fillings, such as dates, walnuts, or pistachios, making them flavorful and satisfying. Additionally, Ma’amoul cookies are often shaped into a round or oval shape, with a traditional wooden mold used to give the cookie its distinctive design. Finally, they are dusted with a generous amount of powdered sugar, giving them a sweet, crunchy finish. All of these elements come together to create a cookie that is truly one of a kind.

What are some modern variations of ma’amoul?

Modern variations of ma’amoul are becoming increasingly popular. The traditional recipe for ma’amoul calls for a combination of dates and nuts that are rolled into a ball-shaped cookie and then baked. However, modern variations are incorporating new ingredients for a more varied flavor. Some of the most popular variations include chocolate-filled ma’amoul, orange-infused ma’amoul, and ma’amoul filled with tahini and cinnamon. Each of these variations adds a unique depth of flavor to the traditional recipe.

In addition to using different ingredients, many modern variations are also using different shapes and sizes to bring even more variation to the ma’amoul. Instead of the traditional ball shape, some variations are being made into crescent-shaped cookies or even mini bite-sized versions. This allows for more surface area to work with, allowing for more filling and greater flavor.

Despite these modern variations, the core ingredients and baking technique of ma’amoul remain the same. In the end, these modern variations are a great way to put a new spin on an old favorite.