Middle Eastern Spiced Cookies, also known as “Ma’amoul,” are traditional cookies that are popular throughout the Middle East. They are typically enjoyed during holidays and celebrations, especially during Eid al-Fitr and Easter. The cookies are made with a rich and crumbly shortbread-like dough that is filled with a sweet and spiced mixture of nuts or dates.
The dough is usually made with a combination of semolina flour, all-purpose flour, and butter or ghee, which gives it its characteristic texture and flavor. The dough is then shaped into small rounds or molds and filled with a mixture of either ground walnuts, pistachios, or dates, which have been flavored with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Once filled, the cookies are then baked until golden brown and dusted with powdered sugar before serving.
Ma’amoul is a popular treat throughout the Middle East, and its flavor and texture can vary depending on the region. In some parts of the Middle East, for example, the cookies are made with a pastry-like dough that is flavored with rose water, while in others, they are made with a softer, cake-like dough. Despite these differences, however, all versions of Ma’amoul share a delicious combination of sweet and spiced flavors that make them a beloved dessert throughout the region.
