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Lebanese Maamoul Cookies

Delightful Middle Eastern cookies with crispy exteriors and soft, flavorful fillings made from semolina, nuts, and dried fruits.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Lebanese, Middle Eastern
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 2 cups semolina Main ingredient for the cookies
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar For sweetness
  • 1/2 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted For richness
  • 1/2 cup milk At room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon For flavor
Filling Ingredients
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pistachios)
  • 1/2 cup dates or figs, chopped Can be replaced with other dried fruits

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the semolina, all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, yeast, and ground cinnamon.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the melted ghee (or butter) with the milk until combined. Slowly pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
  4. On a lightly floured surface, knead your dough for about 5-10 minutes until it reaches a smooth and pliable consistency.
  5. In a bowl, combine the chopped nuts and dried fruits. Optionally, add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
  6. Take a small piece of dough, roll it into a ball, flatten it out in your palm, and place a teaspoon of the filling in the center. Fold the dough over to encase the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
  7. Place the shaped cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
  8. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.

Notes

Experiment with fillings and watch your baking time carefully. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.