Arabic cookies

Arabic Cookies – The Sweet Indulgence That Delights the Senses

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 6 minutes
Total: 21 minutes
Servings: 30 cookies

Who doesn’t love a dessert that combines tradition with tempting flavors? Arabic cookies are an excellent choice for sweet indulgence, whether you serve them at a gathering with friends or surprise your family with something special. These cookies have a delicate texture, and the sweetness of apricots and coconut gives them an exotic touch, making them an irresistible treat. Plus, they are easy to prepare, so you can enjoy them in no time!

Your basic ingredients are easy to find, and depending on your preferences, you can customize them. For example, if you enjoy intense flavors, you can add a dash of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough. Let’s start the culinary adventure!

Ingredients

- 1 whole egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon of water
- 120 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil for a refined taste)
- 120 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Vanilla essence (about 1 teaspoon)
- 300 g flour

For Finishing:
- Apricot jam (or any other preferred jam, such as peach or raspberry)
- 150 g grated coconut

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. In a large bowl, start by adding the whole egg and the egg yolk. Add the tablespoon of water, then use an electric mixer to mix the ingredients well. This will ensure a fluffy texture.

2. Add the sugar and vanilla essence. Continue mixing until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes frothy.

3. Gradually incorporate the oil while mixing on low speed. This will help emulsify the ingredients and add a wonderful flavor to your cookies.

4. In another bowl, sift the flour and baking powder. This will prevent lumps from forming and ensure an even distribution of ingredients.

5. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Use a spatula to combine the ingredients, being careful not to overmix. The dough should be neither too hard nor too soft, but pliable enough to shape.

Step 2: Shaping the Cookies

1. Wet your hands with a little oil so the dough doesn’t stick. Take small portions of dough and form balls about 2-3 cm in diameter.

2. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them as they will expand during baking.

Step 3: Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 170-180 degrees Celsius. Make sure the temperature is correct, as the cookies should not brown but remain pale and slightly cracked on top.

2. Bake the cookies for 5-6 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as every oven has its quirks. When they are ready, let them cool on a cooling rack.

Step 4: Finishing

1. Once cooled, gently heat the apricot jam in a small pot to make it more fluid.

2. Meanwhile, prepare a bowl with grated coconut.

3. Take each cookie and dip it in the warm jam, then in the coconut, coating it evenly.

4. Arrange the cookies on a platter and let them cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

These Arabic cookies are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them with a cup of mint tea or aromatic coffee for a perfect moment of relaxation. Additionally, vanilla or coconut ice cream can wonderfully complement this dessert.

Tips and Tricks

- Recipe Variations: You can try replacing the apricot jam with another flavor you like, such as raspberry or cherry jam. This will add a personal touch to your recipe.

- Natural Sweetening: If you prefer a healthier dessert, you can use honey instead of sugar or a natural sweetener.

- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: Each cookie has about 70 calories, making it a slightly indulgent choice, but full of flavor. The oil and coconut provide healthy fats, while the apricot jam offers vitamins and antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of oil? Yes, you can use olive oil for a more intense flavor, but make sure it is of good quality.

2. How long can I store the cookies? These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to a week. In fact, the longer they sit, the tastier they become due to the jam!

3. Can I freeze the cookies? Yes, you can freeze the uncoated cookies. Bake them directly from the freezer, but add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

A Personal Note

I discovered this recipe during a trip where I had the chance to experience various traditional sweets. Arabic cookies captivated me with their unique flavor and soft texture. Each bite brings back memories of moments spent with loved ones, so I recommend making them with heart and enjoying every moment!

Try this simple and quick recipe for Arabic cookies and let yourself be carried away by their enchanting flavors. They will surely become your favorites!