Traditional Middle Eastern Cookie Recipe: Mamool or Ma'amoul

Mamool or Ma'amoul is a traditional Middle Eastern cookie filled with dates or nuts. These cookies are popular during festive occasions such as Eid or Christmas. The crumbly texture and sweet filling make them a favorite treat for all ages.

Ingredients

• 2 cups semolina flour
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup pitted dates, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix together semolina flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix chopped dates with cinnamon and nutmeg.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Take a small portion of dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a small amount of date filling in the center and close the dough around it, shaping it into a ball or mold using a cookie mold.
7. Place the filled cookies on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden brown.
8. Allow the cookies to cool before serving.
9. Store mamool in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Interesting Facts