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Maamoul – Date-Filled Delights

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Buttery semolina cookies filled with sweet date paste, delicately scented with orange blossom and mahlab. These traditional Middle Eastern treats are perfect for Eid and other festive occasions, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture and nostalgic flavor.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups semolina
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup milk (or water)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon orange blossom water (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground mahlab (optional)
  • 1 cup date paste
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or butter (for mixing with date paste)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix semolina, flour, sugar, baking powder, and mahlab if using.
  2. Add melted butter and rub into the dry mixture with your fingers until it resembles wet sand.
  3. Stir in milk and orange blossom water to form a soft, pliable dough. Cover and let rest for 30–60 minutes.
  4. Meanwhile, mix the date paste with 2 tablespoons of ghee until smooth and roll into small balls (about 1 teaspoon each).
  5. Take a piece of dough (about the size of a walnut), flatten it in your palm, and place a date ball in the center.
  6. Wrap the dough around the filling and shape into a round or oval cookie. Use a maamoul mold or fork to decorate the top.
  7. Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes or until lightly golden on the bottom. Tops should remain pale.
  9. Let cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

  • Resting the dough helps hydrate the semolina and improves texture.
  • Mahlab adds a traditional flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • Use a maamoul mold for an authentic appearance.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/maamoul-date-filled-delights/