Honey and Date Maamoul are a traditional Middle Eastern cookie that is typically made with semolina flour, all-purpose flour, butter, sugar, honey, and dates. The cookies are often filled with a variety of other ingredients, such as nuts, spices, or even cheese. Honey and Date Maamoul are typically served with coffee or tea and are a popular treat during Ramadan.
The history of Honey and Date Maamoul is a long and storied one. The cookies are believed to have originated in the Middle East, where they were first made by Bedouin tribes. The cookies were a way to preserve dates, which were a staple food for the Bedouins. Over time, the cookies became popular throughout the Middle East and are now enjoyed by people of all cultures. Today, Honey and Date Maamoul are a popular treat during Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting. The cookies are often served with coffee or tea and are a symbol of hospitality and generosity.
Prep time: 20 | Cook time: 25 | Serves: 12
Ingredients
1 cup semolina flour
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup chopped dates
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the semolina flour, all-purpose flour, butter, and sugar. Use your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the water, cinnamon, and cardamom. Mix until the dough just comes together.
Divide the dough in half. Roll out one half of the dough on a lightly floured surface to a 12-inch circle. Spread the honey over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
Sprinkle the dates over the honey.
Roll out the remaining dough to a 12-inch circle. Place it over the filling and press down gently to seal the edges.
Cut the maamoul into 12 wedges. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Why It Works
The semolina flour gives the cookies a slightly grainy texture.
The all-purpose flour helps to bind the cookies together.
The butter adds richness and flavor to the cookies.
The sugar helps to sweeten the cookies.
The honey adds a sticky sweetness to the cookies.
The dates add a chewy texture and a pop of sweetness to the cookies.