Pistachio Mafroukeh | YumAndJoy

Pistachio Mafroukeh

Pistachio Mafroukeh is a decadent Middle Eastern dessert made with a rich blend of ground pistachios, semolina, and fragrant floral waters, wrapped around a luscious ashta (cream) filling. This luxurious sweet is often served on special occasions such as Ramadan and Eid, offering a delightful balance of nutty flavors, creamy textures, and a hint of floral aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic Middle Eastern Flavor – Infused with rose water, orange blossom water, and rich pistachios.
  • Perfect for Special Occasions – A stunning dessert ideal for Ramadan, Eid, or festive gatherings.
  • No Baking Required – A simple stovetop preparation makes it easy to prepare.
  • Customizable & Elegant – Can be shaped into cakes, rolls, or bite-sized treats.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better when chilled, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pistachio Dough:

  • 2 cups ground pistachios
  • ½ cup semolina
  • ½ cup sugar
  • ¼ cup butter (melted)
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 tsp rose water
  • 1 tsp orange blossom water

For the Ashta (Cream Filling):

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • ½ tsp rose water

For Garnish:

  • Whole pistachios
  • Dried rose petals

Directions

1. Prepare the Ashta Cream

  • In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, and cornstarch.
  • Continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a custard-like consistency.
  • Add rose water, mix well, and set aside to cool completely.

2. Make the Pistachio Dough

  • In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter and toast the semolina until slightly golden and fragrant.
  • Add sugar and milk, stirring continuously until combined.
  • Stir in the ground pistachios, rose water, and orange blossom water. Mix until a soft, dough-like consistency forms.
  • Allow the mixture to cool slightly until it is easy to handle.

3. Assemble the Mafroukeh

  • Take a small portion of the pistachio dough and flatten it in your palm.
  • Place a spoonful of the ashta cream filling in the center.
  • Gently wrap the pistachio dough around the filling, shaping it into small cakes or molded forms.

4. Garnish & Serve

  • Decorate with whole pistachios and dried rose petals.
  • Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 8-10 pieces
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Nutty Mix – Substitute part of the pistachios with almonds or walnuts for a unique flavor.
  • Chocolate Mafroukeh – Add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for an indulgent twist.
  • Vegan Version – Replace butter with coconut oil and use coconut cream for the ashta.
  • Stuffed Rolls – Roll the pistachio dough into logs filled with cream and slice into bite-sized pieces.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change when thawed.
  • Serving Tip: Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought ashta instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, store-bought ashta works well as a shortcut, but homemade gives a fresher taste.

2. Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Yes, almonds or cashews can be used, but pistachios provide the most authentic flavor.

3. How do I prevent the pistachio dough from sticking?

Let the dough cool slightly before handling, and lightly grease your hands with butter or oil.

4. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. What can I serve with Pistachio Mafroukeh?

It pairs beautifully with Arabic coffee, mint tea, or a light fruit platter.

6. Is this dessert overly sweet?

No, it has a balanced sweetness, but you can adjust the sugar to taste.

7. Can I shape Mafroukeh differently?

Yes, it can be shaped into small balls, molded into cakes, or rolled into logs.

8. What is the best way to grind pistachios?

Use a food processor and pulse gently to avoid turning them into a paste.

9. Can I add vanilla or other flavorings?

Yes, a touch of vanilla or cardamom can enhance the flavor.

10. What if my dough is too dry or too wet?

If too dry, add a little more milk. If too wet, chill the dough before shaping.

Conclusion

Pistachio Mafroukeh is a luxurious and elegant Middle Eastern dessert that showcases the delicate flavors of pistachios, rose water, and creamy ashta. Whether served during Ramadan, Eid, or a special gathering, this no-bake treat is sure to impress. Easy to prepare and rich in flavor, it’s the perfect sweet indulgence for any occasion.

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Pistachio Mafroukeh

Pistachio Mafroukeh


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  • Author: Mari
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6–8
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Pistachio Mafroukeh, a rich and nutty Middle Eastern dessert filled with creamy homemade Ashta (clotted cream). Made with ground pistachios, toasted semolina, and fragrant rose water, this delicacy is soft, aromatic, and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for Eid celebrations, Ramadan Iftar, or any special occasion, this dessert is beautifully garnished with whole pistachios and dried rose petals for an elegant touch.


Ingredients


Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Ashta Cream:

  • In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, and cornstarch until it thickens.
  • Stir in rose water, remove from heat, and let it cool completely.

2️⃣ Make the Pistachio Dough:

  • In a pan, melt butter and toast semolina over low heat until slightly golden and aromatic.
  • Add sugar and milk, stirring continuously until combined.
  • Mix in ground pistachios, rose water, and orange blossom water, stirring until a dough-like consistency forms.
  • Let it cool slightly before handling.

3️⃣ Assemble the Mafroukeh:

  • Take a small portion of the pistachio dough, flatten it in your palm, and place a spoonful of Ashta cream in the center.
  • Gently wrap and shape into small cakes or molds.

4️⃣ Garnish & Serve:

  • Decorate with whole pistachios and dried rose petals for an elegant presentation.
  • Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, replace milk and heavy cream with coconut milk.
  • You can shape Mafroukeh into small discs, mini cakes, or even bite-sized truffles.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Arabic
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