Ma’amoul with Date Paste: A Timeless Middle Eastern Delight

Ma’amoul with Date Paste is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert enjoyed during festive occasions like Eid, Christmas, and Easter. These crumbly cookies have a buttery crust and a rich, sweet date filling, making them a staple in celebrations. Whether shared with family or paired with tea, Ma’amoul with Date Paste brings warmth and tradition to every gathering.
What Makes Ma’amoul with Date Paste Unique?
The charm of Ma’amoul lies in its delicate combination of textures and flavors. The tender, buttery crust contrasts beautifully with the naturally sweet and chewy date filling. Traditionally, these cookies are shaped using decorative molds, giving them intricate patterns that add elegance. However, even without molds, they can be shaped by hand to create visually appealing designs.
Using our high-quality Organic date paste simplifies the process, ensuring a consistent and flavorful filling. This not only saves time but also enhances the cookies’ rich, caramel-like sweetness. For many, Ma’amoul is more than a dessert—it’s a symbol of hospitality and togetherness, often served during holidays and special occasions.
How to Make Ma’amoul with Date Paste
Creating Ma’amoul with Date Paste at home is easier than you might think. First, prepare a simple dough that’s soft and easy to handle. Then, fill each cookie with date paste, rolling the filling into small portions. Shape the cookies using molds or by hand, and bake them until golden. As they cool, the patterns become more pronounced, making them as beautiful as they are delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, offering a balance of simplicity and tradition. It’s easy enough for beginners to follow yet provides an enjoyable experience for seasoned bakers. Whether for a festive gathering or a simple snack, these cookies bring a touch of warmth and maybe nostalgia for certain people to any occasion.

Ma’amoul with Date Paste Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (large and small)
- Wooden Ma’amoul molds or a cookie press (optional)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup semolina
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon orange blossom water (optional)
- ½ teaspoon rose water (optional)
- ¼ cup milk or water (adjust for dough consistency)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup date paste 250g of date paste in the cup
- 1 tablespoon butter (softened)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:– In a large bowl, mix flour, semolina, and sugar.– Add the softened butter and oil. Mix until crumbly.– Gradually add milk or water, and the flavoring waters (if using), until a soft, pliable dough forms. Cover and set aside for 20 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling:In a separate bowl, mix the date paste with softened butter and cinnamon (if using). Roll small portions into balls (about 1 teaspoon each).
- Shape the Ma’amoul:– Take a small piece of dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a date paste ball in the center and wrap the dough around it.– Press the filled dough into a Ma’amoul mold or shape it by hand with decorative patterns.
- Bake:– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).– Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.– Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve:– Allow the cookies to cool before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.– Serve with tea or coffee for an authentic Middle Eastern experience.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ma’amoul with date paste is not only delicious but also a symbol of celebration and togetherness. Its rich history, paired with the convenience of modern ingredients, makes it a timeless treat for any occasion.Notes:
- Optional Flavoring: Rose water and orange blossom water add traditional floral notes, but they can be omitted for a simpler flavor profile.
- Shaping: If you don’t have Ma’amoul molds, you can use the back of a fork or your hands to create decorative patterns.
- Storage: Store Ma’amoul in an airtight container for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer shelf life.
- 120 kcal per Ma’amoul cookie.