Traditional Lebanese Maakaroun Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of semolina
  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 1 cup of vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon of anise seeds
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
  • 1 cup of orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons of orange blossom water
  • 1 cup of honey
  • 1 teaspoon of powdered sugar (optional for garnish)

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the semolina, all-purpose flour, sugar, anise seeds, sesame seeds, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Add in the vegetable oil and mix until all ingredients are well combined.
  3. Pour the orange juice and orange blossom water into the mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form.
  4. Let the dough rest for about 30 minutes so that the semolina can fully absorb the liquids.
  5. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
  6. Shape the dough into small round balls or short tubes, then flatten them slightly with your hand.
  7. Arrange the maakaroun on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
  9. While the maakaroun are baking, heat the honey in a small saucepan over low heat until it becomes runny.
  10. Once the maakaroun are done baking, submerge them in the heated honey, ensuring they are fully coated.
  11. Allow the maakaroun to cool and the honey to solidify.
  12. If desired, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top as a garnish before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Instead of using semolina, you can try using fine cornmeal for a slightly different texture.
  • Add a hint of lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
  • Replace the anise seeds with ground cinnamon or cardamom for a warm and aromatic flavor.
  • For a nutty taste, you can mix in some chopped almonds or pistachios into the dough.
  • If you prefer a vegan option, substitute the honey with agave syrup or maple syrup.
  • To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
  • For a savory version, omit the sugar and add in herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the dough.
  • Experiment with different flavored syrups such as rosewater or lavender syrup for a unique twist.
  • Add a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to the honey syrup for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
  • To make it more festive, sprinkle some colored sugar or edible glitter on top of the maakaroun after coating them in honey.

Recipe overview

Indulge in a classic Middle Eastern dessert with this recipe for Maakaroun. Made with semolina, flour, anise and sesame seeds, these sweet treats are soaked in honey for an extra burst of flavor. The unique combination of ingredients gives the Maakaroun its distinctive taste. This recipe guides you through the process of making Maakaroun from scratch. From mixing and shaping the dough, to baking and soaking them in honey, you'll find each step detailed clearly. The process is quite simple and does not require any specialized equipment, making it perfect for beginners or anyone looking to try their hand at Middle Eastern cuisine. The result is a batch of delicious and fragrant Maakaroun, perfect for serving at festive occasions or enjoying with a cup of tea. The added touch of powdered sugar garnish adds to the visual appeal and taste of these tempting treats. So, get your ingredients ready and let's embark on a delightful culinary journey with this Maakaroun recipe.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can experiment with different types of flour, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture and taste of the maakaroun.
  2. Can I replace the orange juice with another citrus juice? Yes, you can substitute the orange juice with lemon juice or any other citrus juice of your choice.
  3. Can I omit the anise seeds and sesame seeds? Yes, if you're not a fan of these flavors, you can leave them out without compromising the overall recipe.
  4. Can I use butter instead of vegetable oil? Yes, you can use melted butter as a substitute for vegetable oil, but it may alter the taste and texture of the maakaroun slightly.
  5. How should I store the maakaroun? Once they have cooled completely, store the maakaroun in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  6. Can I freeze the maakaroun? Yes, you can freeze the maakaroun in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients together.
  • Baking Sheet - A flat metal sheet used for baking the maakaroun in the oven.
  • Parchment Paper - Used to line the baking sheet and prevent the maakaroun from sticking.
  • Small Saucepan - To heat the honey for coating the maakaroun.
  • Spatula - A kitchen tool used for stirring and mixing the dough.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons - To accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Oven - To bake the maakaroun until golden brown.

Origin stories

Maakaroun is a traditional Lebanese dessert that is deeply-rooted in the rich culinary history of the region. It is especially popular during the festive holiday seasons, bringing a touch of sweetness to family gatherings and communal celebrations. Interestingly, the unique shape of Maakaroun, which resembles a small bracelet or donut, has an intriguing backstory. It is said to have been inspired by the ancient Phoenician tradition of offering honey cakes to the moon. Representing the full moon, these sweet treats continue to be a delightful symbol of unity, togetherness, and the circular nature of life.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commission from qualifying purchases after you click on affiliate product links (thanks for that). But we hope the links will be relevant and beneficial to you as well.