Get ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Morocco with these melt-in-your-mouth almond semolina cookies that are about to become your new obsession! Imagine a cookie so delicate, so perfectly balanced between nutty and sweet, that it will make you forget every other cookie you've ever tasted. These traditional Moroccan treats are not just a dessert – they're a culinary journey that combines centuries-old baking techniques with simple, luxurious ingredients that will leave you craving more with every single bite.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Moroccan
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups semolina
- 1 cup ground almonds
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the semolina flour, ground almonds, sugar, and baking powder. Whisk together to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the melted butter, milk, and almond extract. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Let the dough rest for 10 minutes to allow the semolina to absorb the liquid and become more manageable.
- Using clean hands, take small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon) and roll into smooth balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Gently press down on each ball with your palm or the back of a fork to slightly flatten, creating a traditional Moroccan cookie shape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once fully cooled, generously dust the cookies with powdered sugar, creating a delicate, sweet coating.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. These cookies are best enjoyed with mint tea or coffee.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the most consistent dough texture.
- Resting is Key: Don't skip the 10-minute resting period for the dough. This allows the semolina to absorb liquid and creates a better cookie consistency.
- Gentle Handling: When forming the cookies, use a light touch to keep them tender and avoid overworking the dough.
- Powdered Sugar Technique: For an elegant finish, wait until the cookies are completely cool before dusting with powdered sugar to prevent it from melting.
- Storage Hack: To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container with a piece of bread to maintain their soft texture.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair these cookies with traditional Moroccan mint tea for an authentic experience that will transport you straight to a Marrakech café.
- Variation Tip: For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of orange blossom water or ground cinnamon to the dough for a unique twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
