Ma’amoul (Lebanese Date Stuffed Pastries)

May 17, 2023May 17, 20230 3

Lebanese Ma'amoul dessert with a sweet and nutty filling

Ma’amoul (Lebanese Date Stuffed Pastries)

by The Chefin Pastry

Prep

30 min

Cook

25 min

Ready In

55 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

163

Sugar

11g

Fat

Ma'amoul is a traditional Lebanese pastry made during special occasions such as Eid or Easter. They are typically served with tea or coffee and enjoyed with family and friends. The pastry is typically made with semolina dough and stuffed with dates, pistachios, or walnuts. The Ma'amoul pastries are often shaped into intricate patterns using wooden molds. Today's recipe focuses on the date stuffed pastry, which is a popular variation of the Ma'amoul pastry. The combination of the crumbly dough and sweet and nutty filling makes for a delicious and satisfying dessert.

Instructions

1.	Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2.	In a small saucepan, combine the chopped dates and 1/4 cup of water. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the dates have softened and the water has been absorbed.
3.	In a large bowl, combine the flour, chilled diced butter, and orange blossom water or rose water. Mix until the dough comes together and is crumbly.
4.	Gradually add 2 tablespoons of water, mixing until the dough is smooth and pliable.
5.	Using your hands, roll the dough into small balls about the size of a golf ball.
6.	Make a small indentation in the center of each dough ball and fill with a small spoonful of the date mixture.
7.	Carefully pinch the edges of the dough together to fully enclose the filling and shape it into a small rectangular or crescent moon shape.
8.	Place the ma'amoul pastries on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely before dusting with icing sugar.

PROS

Ma’amoul pastries are a delicious treat, showcasing Lebanese flavors with a sweet and nutty filling.
They are perfect for afternoon tea or dessert.

The pastries can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for several days.

CONS

Ma’amoul is a sweet pastry and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

The preparation can be time-consuming as it involves preparing the dough and the filling separately.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Dates are a great source of fiber and contain essential vitamins and minerals such as iron and potassium.
Orange blossom water and rose water are known for their calming and soothing effects and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries.

	8 ounces dates , pitted , roughly chopped
	1/4 cup water
	8 ounces plain flour
	4 ounces butter , chilled , diced
	2 teaspoons orange blossom water or 2 teaspoons rose water
	2 tablespoons water
	icing sugar