Date-filled semolina cookies (Magrud) - Dessert from Libya

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil reduces saturated fat and adds a subtle flavor.

dates

🥗Healthier: figs

💰Cheaper: raisins

Figs provide similar sweetness and texture, while raisins are more economical.

semolina

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: all-purpose flour

Whole wheat flour adds nutrients, while all-purpose is often less expensive.

almond

🥗Healthier: walnuts

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Walnuts offer healthy fats, while sunflower seeds are budget-friendly.

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a bowl, combine semolina, baking powder, and salt; set aside.

In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture; mix until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; stir until a dough forms.

Soak dates in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain and chop finely.

Mix chopped dates with cinnamon and orange zest in a separate bowl.

Take a small portion of dough and flatten it in your palm.

Place a teaspoon of the date mixture in the center of the dough and fold over to seal.

Shape into a ball or oval, ensuring the filling is well enclosed.

Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of each cookie, pressing gently to adhere.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens