Lebanese Cookies
Description
These traditional Lebanese cookies are a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The dough, enriched with butter and oil, yields a tender, cake-like cookie that is baked until just golden. The star of the show is the warm honey-orange syrup, which soaks into the cookies, creating a moist, sticky exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior. Finely chopped walnuts add a pleasant crunch and earthy richness. These treats are perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet finale to a savory meal. They capture the essence of Middle Eastern hospitality with their simple yet sophisticated flavor profile.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the cooking oil and softened butter together until smooth and blended.
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Add the 1/3 cup sugar and beat until the mixture is light and creamy.
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Stir in the orange juice, baking powder, and baking soda until well combined.
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Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
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Shape the dough into 12 oval cookies, approximately 2 inches long, and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
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Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.
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Remove cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
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While cookies cool, prepare the syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the 3/4 cup sugar, honey, and 1/2 cup water.
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Bring the syrup mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer gently, uncovered, for 5 minutes.
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Dip the cooled cookies into the warm syrup, ensuring they are coated.
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Immediately sprinkle the syrup-coated cookies with the finely chopped walnuts.
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Place cookies on a wire rack to dry and set for at least 1 hour before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 2548.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 117.0g180%
- Saturated Fat 39.5g198%
- Cholesterol 129.0mg43%
- Sodium 743.2mg31%
- Total Carbohydrate 352.2g118%
- Dietary Fiber 9.2g37%
- Sugars 165.2g
- Protein 30.7g62%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
The cookies should be dipped in the syrup while still slightly warm for best absorption, but not hot. If the syrup becomes too thick, add a teaspoon of water to thin it out.
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The flavor improves as they sit, allowing the syrup to fully penetrate the cookie.
You can substitute walnuts with pistachios or almonds for a different nutty flavor profile.
For a stronger citrus note, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough.
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