Traditional Moroccan Ghriba Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of almond flour
  • 1 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup of powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup of orange blossom water
  • 1/2 cup of finely chopped almonds for decoration
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
  3. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients, and mix well until you get a smooth dough.
  4. Gradually add the orange blossom water to the dough while kneading it until it becomes pliable and easy to shape.
  5. Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball slightly and press the top into the chopped almonds.
  6. Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking tray, making sure to leave some space between each cookie since they will spread a little while baking.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
  8. Let the cookies cool on the baking tray for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the dry and wet ingredients.
  • Baking Tray - A flat tray used for baking the cookies in the oven.
  • Parchment Paper - Used to line the baking tray and prevent the cookies from sticking.
  • Wire Rack - A rack used for cooling the cookies after baking.
  • Measuring Cups - Used to accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Measuring Spoons - Used to measure small amounts of ingredients, such as baking powder and salt.
  • Rolling Pin - A tool used to flatten and shape the cookie dough.
  • Knife - Used to chop the almonds for decoration.
  • Spatula - Used to transfer the cookies from the baking tray to the wire rack.

Recipe variations

  • Replace almond flour with hazelnut flour for a different flavor.
  • Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract for added flavor.
  • Instead of orange blossom water, use rose water or lemon zest for a different aromatic twist.
  • Add a handful of dried fruits, such as raisins or chopped dates, to the dough for added sweetness and texture.
  • Sprinkle the cookies with ground cinnamon or cardamom before baking for a spiced variation.
  • Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
  • Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy flavor.
  • Replace the chopped almonds with pistachios or shredded coconut for a different nutty topping.

Recipe overview

This Ghriba recipe will guide you through making these traditional Moroccan cookies right at home. Ghriba cookies are delicious and fragrant treats often served with tea. The almond flour and orange blossom water give them a unique flavor and a soft, crumbly texture, while the dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness. These cookies are simple to prepare, and their unique and delightful taste will transport you straight to Morocco. Whether you're hosting a tea party or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these Ghriba cookies are a must-try. Enjoy this baking adventure!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour?
    Yes, you can substitute the almond flour with hazelnut flour or any other nut flour of your choice. However, keep in mind that it will alter the taste and texture of the Ghriba cookies.
  2. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
    Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute for butter in this recipe. However, the taste and texture may vary slightly.
  3. What can I use as a substitute for orange blossom water?
    If you don't have orange blossom water, you can use rose water or vanilla extract as alternatives. They will add a different flavor profile to the Ghriba cookies.
  4. Can I skip the cinnamon?
    Yes, you can omit the cinnamon if you prefer or if you have an allergy or intolerance to it. The Ghriba cookies will still be delicious without it.
  5. How should I store the Ghriba cookies?
    Store the Ghriba cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients together.
  • Baking Tray - A flat tray used for baking the cookies in the oven.
  • Parchment Paper - Paper used to line the baking tray to prevent the cookies from sticking.
  • Wire Rack - A rack used for cooling the cookies after baking.
  • Measuring Cups - Cups used to measure the precise amounts of ingredients.
  • Measuring Spoons - Spoons used to measure small amounts of ingredients.
  • Rolling Pin - A cylindrical tool used to flatten the cookie dough.
  • Knife - A sharp knife used to chop the almonds.

Origin stories

Ghriba, these crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, carry the rich aroma of history within them. They originated in Morocco, a country known for its vibrant culture and exquisite cuisine. The Moroccan Ghriba is endowed with a heritage as diverse as its components. Each ingredient narrates a tale of the trade routes that once crisscrossed the North African landscape, influencing the food and culture of the region. Almond, one of the main ingredients, was brought to Morocco by the Phoenicians, while the use of orange blossom water reflects the Arab influence. It's fascinating how a small cookie can encapsulate such a vast and varied history, isn't it? Every bite of the Ghriba is like a journey through time, offering a taste of Morocco's rich and diverse past.

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.

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