Maamoul Date Cookies with Chef Nof Atamna-Ismaeel

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is dairy-free and adds a subtle flavor.

walnuts

🥗Healthier: pecans

💰Cheaper: almonds

Pecans are a good source of healthy fats and are often less expensive.

orange blossom water

💰Cheaper: vanilla extract

Vanilla extract provides a similar aromatic quality.

dates

💰Cheaper: raisins

Raisins can be used for a different texture and sweetness.

De-seed the Medjool dates.

Add a little cinnamon and nutmeg to the dates.

Coat hands with olive oil for smooth handling.

Mix 750 grams of semolina with melted butter until well combined.

Add flour to the semolina mixture.

Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and a small dash of salt to the mixture.

Transfer the mixture to a flat surface for easier kneading.

Knead the dough until everything is mixed well.

Take a round ball of dough, slightly bigger than a cherry.

Flatten the dough ball by hand.

Place a date ball in the center of the flattened dough.

Wrap the dough around the date filling and pinch to seal.

Use a mold to shape the cookies with grooves.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens