Maamoul are traditional Middle Eastern shortbread cookies filled with sweet date paste and delicately flavored with rose water and warm spices. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are a staple for Eid, Ramadan, and festive occasions. Made with semolina and gently molded into beautiful patterns, Maamoul is a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Middle Eastern Delight – A classic Eid and Ramadan treat enjoyed across the Arab world.
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture – Buttery semolina dough gives these cookies a rich and tender bite.
- Naturally Sweetened Filling – The dates provide natural sweetness with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Perfect for Celebrations – A traditional dessert that is often shared with family and guests.
- Customizable – Can be filled with nuts, figs, or even chocolate for a unique twist.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dough:
- 3 cups semolina
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup warm milk
- 1 tbsp rose water (optional)
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp ground mahlab (optional)
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups pitted dates (softened)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg (optional)
For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine semolina, flour, and baking powder.
- Add the melted butter and rub the mixture between your fingers until it becomes crumbly.
- Stir in powdered sugar, warm milk, and rose water. Knead until a smooth dough forms.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for at least 1 hour to allow the semolina to soften.
2. Prepare the Date Filling
- In a bowl, mash the softened dates with butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg until a smooth paste forms.
- If needed, warm the mixture slightly to make it easier to blend.
3. Shape the Cookies
- Take a small piece of dough and roll it into a ball (about the size of a walnut).
- Flatten the dough slightly and place a teaspoon of date filling in the center.
- Fold and seal the dough around the filling, shaping it into a smooth ball.
- Use a maamoul mold or press with a fork to create decorative patterns on the surface.
4. Bake the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Arrange the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
5. Garnish & Serve
- Let the cookies cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
- Serve with tea or coffee and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 18-20 cookies
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Resting Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Filled Maamoul – Replace the date filling with chopped walnuts or pistachios mixed with honey.
- Chocolate Maamoul – Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder to the dough and fill with chocolate spread.
- Floral & Citrus Twist – Add orange blossom water or lemon zest for extra aroma.
- Vegan Maamoul – Substitute butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store Maamoul in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Unbaked Maamoul can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Reheating: If needed, warm baked Maamoul in a low oven (150°C/300°F) for 5 minutes before serving.
FAQs
1. What is Maamoul?
Maamoul is a Middle Eastern shortbread cookie filled with dates or nuts, traditionally enjoyed during Ramadan and Eid.
2. Can I make Maamoul without semolina?
Yes, but semolina gives Maamoul its signature texture. You can substitute it with extra flour, though the cookies will be softer.
3. How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Ensure the dough is thick enough and completely seals the filling before shaping.
4. Can I use store-bought date paste?
Yes! Pre-made date paste saves time and works well in this recipe.
5. What if my dough is too dry?
Add a splash of warm milk or extra butter to soften the dough.
6. Can I make Maamoul without a mold?
Yes! Simply shape the cookies by hand and use a fork to create patterns.
7. Why do I need to rest the dough?
Resting allows the semolina to absorb moisture, making the cookies tender and flavorful.
8. How do I make gluten-free Maamoul?
Use almond flour or gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour.
9. Can I skip the powdered sugar topping?
Absolutely! Maamoul is naturally sweet from the date filling, but the sugar adds a traditional touch.
10. What’s the best way to serve Maamoul?
Serve with Arabic coffee, mint tea, or warm milk for a perfect treat.
Conclusion
Maamoul is a treasured Middle Eastern dessert that brings warmth and tradition to any celebration. These buttery, spiced, and date-filled cookies are a joy to make and share, whether during Ramadan, Eid, or with a cup of tea. Try different fillings, mold shapes, and flavors to create your perfect version of this classic treat!
