Kleicha / Iraqi Eid Cookies

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option while maintaining moisture.

dates

🥗Healthier: dried figs

💰Cheaper: raisins

Dried figs offer a similar sweetness and texture.

powdered sugar

🥗Healthier: erythritol

💰Cheaper: granulated sugar

Erythritol reduces calories while mimicking sweetness.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water

Almond milk is lower in calories, while water can be used for a lighter dough.

Prepare the date filling by placing soft dates in a pan on low heat with vegetable oil.

Add 1 tablespoon of ground cardamom to the dates and mix until it forms a paste; let it cool.

Crush walnuts halfway and transfer to a bowl; add sugar and ground cardamom, and mix well.

In a bowl, combine 4 cups of all purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cardamom, and 1/2 tablespoon baking powder.

Add 1 cup of vegetable oil and 1/2 cup of yogurt to the dry ingredients and knead until combined.

Gradually add 1/2 cup of water bit by bit until the dough doesn't crack when rolled out; cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

Shape the dough by adding dates on both sides and rolling it; poke with a fork for decoration.

Cut the rolled dough into desired sizes.

For the walnut filling, form a little cup with the dough and use molds to shape them.

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (approximately 350°F).

Brush the shaped cookies with egg wash and bake for around 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens