Maamoul

Maamoul

Maamoul is a traditional Middle Eastern pastry, often filled with dates, nuts, or figs. Here’s a basic recipe for date-filled maamoul:

Ingredients:

For the dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup semolina
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the date filling:

  • 1 1/2 cups pitted dates, chopped
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the filling:
    • In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped dates, cinnamon, and cloves (if using). Cook, stirring frequently, until the dates are softened and the mixture is smooth. Let it cool.
  2. Prepare the dough:
    • In a large bowl, combine the flour, semolina, baking powder, and salt.
    • In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing well. Add milk a little at a time until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
  3. Assemble the maamoul:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Divide the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Flatten each ball into a small disk and place a spoonful of the date filling in the center. Fold the dough around the filling and shape it into a ball, sealing the edges.
    • Place the filled dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can use a maamoul mold or fork to create patterns on the surface of each pastry, if desired.
  4. Bake:
    • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the maamoul is golden brown. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.
  5. Serve:
    • Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy with tea or coffee!

Feel free to experiment with different fillings like nuts or figs based on your preference.