Barazek are crisp, buttery cookies coated with toasted sesame seeds on one side and crushed pistachios on the other. These delicate, nutty treats are a popular Middle Eastern dessert, known for their light texture and rich flavor. Perfect with tea or coffee, Barazek are easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Nutty – The perfect combination of crunchy sesame seeds and pistachios.
- Buttery and Light – The dough creates a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Simple Yet Elegant – These cookies look beautiful and taste even better.
- Great for Gifting – Barazek make a wonderful homemade gift for holidays and celebrations.
- Perfect with Tea or Coffee – A delightful treat that pairs well with warm beverages.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Toppings:
- ½ cup crushed pistachios
- ½ cup sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons honey
Directions
Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Shape the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and flatten each slightly.
- Press one side of each dough ball into the crushed pistachios.
- Press the other side into the sesame seeds, ensuring an even coating.
Bake
- Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
- While the cookies are still warm, lightly brush them with honey for a glossy finish.
Cool & Serve
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving. Enjoy with tea or coffee!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 24 cookies
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 12-15 minutes
- Cooling Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Almond Barazek – Replace pistachios with crushed almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Chocolate Twist – Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a sweet touch.
- Orange Blossom Flavor – Add ½ teaspoon of orange blossom water to the dough for a fragrant aroma.
- Sugar-Free Option – Use a sugar substitute and natural honey for a lower-sugar version.
- Extra Crunchy – Toast the sesame seeds before pressing them onto the dough for deeper flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks for extended freshness.
- Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: If desired, warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to refresh the crunch.
FAQs
What makes Barazek crispy?
The combination of butter, flour, and a slightly drier dough helps create the signature crisp texture.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes! Almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts can replace pistachios for a different flavor.
Should I toast the sesame seeds?
Toasting sesame seeds enhances their flavor, but it’s optional since they toast slightly while baking.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, Barazek store well and can be made a few days in advance.
How do I keep Barazek from getting too soft?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, avoiding humidity to maintain crispness.
Can I make Barazek gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Why do my cookies spread too much?
Overmixing the dough or using too much butter can cause spreading. Chill the dough if needed before shaping.
What is the best way to press the toppings onto the cookies?
Gently press each dough ball onto a plate of pistachios and sesame seeds for even coverage.
Can I use honey in the dough instead of as a glaze?
Yes, you can mix honey into the dough, but it may make the cookies slightly softer.
Do these cookies pair well with coffee?
Absolutely! Barazek are perfect with coffee, tea, or Arabic coffee for an authentic experience.
Conclusion
Barazek – Crispy Sesame and Pistachio Cookies are a delightful Middle Eastern treat that combines buttery richness with nutty crunch. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, these cookies are a must-try for lovers of gourmet, homemade desserts. Enjoy them fresh or store them for a delicious snack anytime!
