Moroccan Date Cookies (Makrout)

🧡 Story

Makrout are semolina cookies that are yellow, filled with sweet date paste, and honey-soaked. A classic Moroccan cookie that’s a holiday and special occasion treat, they are crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and deliciously scented with orange blossom and cinnamon.

• Ingredients :
• For the Dough:
• 500g coarse semolina
• 125g melted butter
• 1 pinch salt
• 100ml orange blossom water
• Water (as needed to form dough)
• For the Filling:
• 250g pitted dates
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp orange blossom water
• For the Syrup:
• 200ml honey
• 2 tbsp orange blossom water
• Optional Garnish:
• Toasted sesame seeds

• 👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
• In a large bowl, mix semolina, melted butter, and salt. Add orange blossom water and a little water until the dough holds together. Let rest for 20 minutes.
• Prepare the filling by blending dates, butter, cinnamon, and orange blossom water into a smooth paste.
• Roll the dough into long ropes. Flatten slightly and place a line of date filling along the center.
• Fold the dough over the filling and seal well. Flatten gently, then cut diagonally into diamond shapes.
• Heat oil in a pan and fry Makrout pieces until golden brown on both sides.
• Warm the honey with orange blossom water.
• Dip the fried Makrout into the warm honey for a few seconds, then place on a rack to drain.
• Optional: sprinkle with sesame seeds for decoration.

🍋 Tips & Tricks

💡 Makrout can also be baked instead of fried for a lighter version. They keep well for up to two weeks in an airtight container.