Date and Almond Maamoul
Maamoul is a classic Middle Eastern cookie that is often filled with dates or nuts, and flavored with a blend of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. To make our version of Maamoul, we start by grinding blanched almonds in a food processor until they are very fine. Then, we remove the pits from dates and process them until they are finely chopped. We combine the dates, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl. Next, we process the flour, ground almonds, and butter in a food processor until they are combined. We add the egg yolk and process until the dough just comes together. We divide the dough into 12 equal portions and roll them into balls. We flatten each ball and fill it with a spoonful of the date filling. We then form the filled dough into a crescent shape and use a fork to crimp the edges. We bake the Maamoul in a preheated oven until they are golden brown.
Maamoul is a classic Middle Eastern cookie that has been enjoyed for centuries. The earliest known recipe for Maamoul dates back to the 13th century, and the cookie is believed to have originated in Persia. Maamoul is typically made with a semolina flour dough that is filled with dates, nuts, or other sweet ingredients. The cookies are often flavored with a blend of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Maamoul is a popular cookie throughout the Middle East, and it is often served during special occasions like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The cookie is also a popular gift to give to friends and family. Our recipe for Maamoul is a simple and straightforward one that produces delicious, authentic cookies. We use a combination of blanched almonds and dates in our filling, and we flavor the dough with a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg. The result is a cookie that is both flavorful and satisfying.
Date and Almond Maamoul Date and Almond Maamoul Date and Almond Maamoul Date and Almond Maamoul
Prep time: 30 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 12
Ingredients
  • 250 g blanched almonds
  • 250 g pitted dates
  • 100 g sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 100 g plain flour
  • 25 g butter, softened
  • 1 egg yolk
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced).
  2. Process almonds in a food processor until finely ground.
  3. Remove pits from dates and process until finely chopped.
  4. Combine dates, sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg in a bowl.
  5. Process flour, ground almonds and butter in a food processor until combined.
  6. Add egg yolk and process until dough just comes together.
  7. Divide dough into 12 equal portions and roll into balls.
  8. Flatten each ball and fill with a spoonful of date filling.
Why It Works
  • Using a combination of blanched almonds and dates in the filling gives the Maamoul a rich, nutty flavor with a hint of sweetness.
  • Flavoring the dough with a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg gives the Maamoul a warm, inviting aroma and flavor.
  • Using a semolina flour dough gives the Maamoul a slightly coarse texture that is complemented by the smooth filling.
  • Baking the Maamoul until they are golden brown gives them a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior.