Lebanese Walnut Cookies

Lebanese Walnut Cookies Recipe | Authentic Taste of Lebanon

Region / culture: Lebanon | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15-20 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Lebanese Walnut Cookies are a delicious and traditional Middle Eastern treat that are perfect for any occasion. These cookies are filled with a sweet and nutty mixture that pairs perfectly with the buttery cookie base. They are sure to be a hit with family and friends!

History

Lebanese Walnut Cookies have been a staple in Lebanese cuisine for generations. These cookies are often made during special occasions such as holidays and celebrations. The combination of buttery cookies and a sweet walnut filling has been a favorite among Lebanese families for years.

Ingredients

Cookies

0.5 lb (227 g) of butter
0.5 cup of powdered sugar
2 tbsp of orange blossom water
2 cups of flour

Filling

0.5 cup of chopped walnuts
0.25 cup of powdered sugar
1 tsp of cinnamon

How to prepare

Line cookie sheets with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar.
Add the orange water and sifted flour to the bowl, and stir until the mixture forms a thick dough.
Set the dough aside.
To prepare the filling, combine the nuts, sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and press the center to form a dent for the filling.
Fill each cookie with about a teaspoon of the filling, and place the cookies on the parchment-lined sheets.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool on wire racks.

Variations

Try using different nuts such as pistachios or almonds for the filling.
Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top of the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy to ensure a tender cookie.

- Be sure to press the center of the cookie dough to create a well for the filling.

- Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving to ensure the filling sets properly.

Serving Suggestions

Lebanese Walnut Cookies are best enjoyed with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy is key to a tender cookie.

- Pressing the center of the cookie dough to create a well for the filling ensures that the cookies bake evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

- You can use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these cookies.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cookie dough and filling ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Lebanese Walnut Cookies pair well with a hot cup of Turkish coffee or a glass of sweet tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Lebanese Walnut Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place in a 350°F (177°C) oven for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lebanese Walnut Cookies contains approximately 180 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Lebanese Walnut Cookies contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Lebanese Walnut Cookies contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Lebanese Walnut Cookies contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Lebanese Walnut Cookies are a good source of vitamin E and magnesium from the walnuts.

Alergens

Lebanese Walnut Cookies contain dairy and nuts.

Summary

Lebanese Walnut Cookies are a delicious treat that are relatively high in calories and fats, but also provide essential nutrients such as vitamin E and magnesium.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

. The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a sunny afternoon in Beirut, Lebanon, and I was wandering through the bustling streets of the souk market. The air was filled with the fragrant aroma of spices, and the sound of vendors calling out their wares surrounded me.

As I meandered through the narrow alleys, I stumbled upon a small, unassuming bakery tucked away in a corner. The display window was filled with an array of delicious-looking pastries, and my mouth watered at the sight of them. I couldn't resist the temptation and decided to step inside.

The warm, inviting smell of freshly baked bread greeted me as I entered the bakery. The walls were lined with shelves filled with all sorts of sweet treats, and the sound of laughter and chatter filled the air. I approached the counter, where a kindly elderly woman was busy kneading dough.

"Hello, dear," she greeted me with a warm smile. "Would you like to try some of our Lebanese Walnut Cookies? They are a family recipe that has been passed down for generations."

Intrigued, I nodded eagerly and watched as she deftly shaped the dough into small balls and placed them on a baking sheet. She then sprinkled them with crushed walnuts and popped them into the oven. The tantalizing aroma of baking cookies filled the bakery, and I couldn't wait to taste them.

As I bit into the warm, buttery cookie, I was immediately transported to a world of flavors and textures. The crunch of the walnuts combined with the soft, crumbly cookie was a symphony of deliciousness in my mouth. I savored every bite, feeling the warmth and love that went into making these delectable treats.

I couldn't help but ask the elderly woman for the recipe, and she graciously obliged. She explained the ingredients and the steps involved in making the cookies, sharing tips and tricks that had been handed down through her family for generations.

Over the years, I have perfected the recipe for these Lebanese Walnut Cookies, adding my own twist to make them even more special. I have shared them with family and friends, who have all marveled at their deliciousness and begged me for the recipe.

I have fond memories of that sunny afternoon in Beirut, discovering the magic of Lebanese Walnut Cookies in that humble bakery. The experience sparked a passion for cooking and baking in me, and I have since learned many more recipes from various places and people.

But the recipe for Lebanese Walnut Cookies will always hold a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of that fateful day when I stumbled upon a hidden gem in the bustling souk market of Beirut, and it is a testament to the power of simple, homemade goodness that can bring people together and create lasting memories.

So, next time you find yourself in need of a sweet treat to share with loved ones, why not try your hand at making these Lebanese Walnut Cookies? I promise you won't be disappointed. The recipe may be simple, but the joy and satisfaction it brings are priceless.