Kaab el ghzal

Kaab el ghzal

Kaab el ghzal, also known as “gazelle horns,” is a traditional Moroccan pastry. It’s a delicate, almond-filled treat with a crisp, flaky exterior. Here’s a recipe you can try:

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
  • 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup orange blossom water (or a little more if needed)

For the Filling:

  • 200g (2 cups) ground almonds
  • 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground clove
  • 1/4 cup orange blossom water

For the Glaze:

  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tbsp milk

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
    2. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
    3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and orange blossom water. Mix until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more orange blossom water, one tablespoon at a time.
    4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Filling:
    1. In a bowl, combine the ground almonds, sugar, cinnamon, clove, and orange blossom water. Mix until well combined.
  3. Assemble the Pastries:
    1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick.
    3. Cut the dough into circles using a cookie cutter or a glass (about 3 inches in diameter).
    4. Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
    5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal, and then use a fork or a decorative tool to crimp the edges.
    6. Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Glaze and Bake:
    1. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. Brush this mixture over the tops of the pastries.
    2. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown.
  5. Cool and Serve:
    1. Let the pastries cool on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy your kaab el ghzal with a cup of tea or coffee!