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Middle Eastern Date-Filled Ma’amoul Cookies

September 5, 2025 by Emma Delaney

Golden and delicately shaped, Ma’amoul cookies are a traditional Middle Eastern treat, typically enjoyed during Eid, Ramadan, and other festive occasions. These crescent-shaped pastries feature a rich, buttery dough wrapped around a sweet spiced date filling, baked until just golden. Soft, subtly fragrant, and perfectly balanced, Ma’amoul is a celebration of both texture and tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ma’amoul cookies are the perfect fusion of elegance and comfort. The dough is tender and buttery, while the filling is sweet, spiced, and naturally rich thanks to Medjool dates. These cookies are not overly sweet, making them ideal for serving with tea or coffee. Whether you’re familiar with Middle Eastern desserts or trying them for the first time, this recipe is approachable, rewarding, and deeply nostalgic.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup milk (room temperature)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

1 cup pitted Medjool dates, chopped
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)

For the egg wash:

1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon milk

Directions

Make the date filling:
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine chopped dates, butter, cinnamon, and cardamom (if using). Stir and mash with a spoon until a smooth, paste-like consistency is achieved. Allow to cool slightly and roll into small teaspoon-sized balls.
Prepare the dough:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, vegetable oil, and sugar until smooth. Add milk, flour, baking powder, and salt. Knead gently until a soft, pliable dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a small amount of flour.
Assemble the cookies:
Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a 3-inch round cutter (or glass) to cut out circles. Place a date ball in the center of each round, then fold the dough over into a crescent shape. Seal the edges with a fork to ensure they don’t open during baking.
Prepare for baking:
Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Whisk together the egg yolk and milk, then lightly brush each cookie with the egg wash for a golden finish.
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 18–22 minutes, or until they are lightly golden.
Cool and serve:
Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 20–24 cookies, depending on size.
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Nut-filled Ma’amoul: Replace the date filling with a mixture of finely chopped walnuts or pistachios sweetened with a little sugar and flavored with rose water.
Ma’amoul molds: Use traditional wooden Ma’amoul molds to shape the cookies for a more authentic presentation.
Powdered sugar topping: After baking, dust cookies with powdered sugar for a festive look (commonly done with nut-filled variations).
No egg wash: For a matte finish, omit the egg wash and bake as is.
Vegan version: Substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use plant milk in place of dairy milk.

Storage/Reheating

Store: Keep Ma’amoul in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze: They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheat: If desired, warm in a low oven (300°F / 150°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore slight crispness.

FAQs

What are Ma’amoul cookies?

Ma’amoul are traditional filled cookies from the Middle East, typically made with dates, nuts, or figs, and are often prepared for Eid, Easter, and other religious holidays.

Can I use date paste instead of whole dates?

Yes. Store-bought date paste can be used to save time. Simply mix it with spices and butter to enhance the flavor before filling.

Do I need a special mold?

No. This recipe shapes the cookies into crescents using a simple round cutter, though traditional molds can add decorative detail.

How do I prevent the cookies from cracking?

Ensure the dough is not too dry. Add a small amount of milk or oil if it feels crumbly, and handle it gently when sealing.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes. The dough can be made and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before using.

Are these cookies overly sweet?

No. The natural sweetness of the dates is balanced by the mild dough, making Ma’amoul delicately sweet rather than sugary.

Can I use other types of dates?

Medjool dates are preferred for their softness and flavor, but other soft varieties like Deglet Noor will also work.

Is it necessary to cook the date filling?

While not strictly necessary, gently cooking the filling with butter and spices improves the texture and depth of flavor.

How do I get a glossy finish?

Brushing with egg yolk and milk before baking gives the cookies a warm, glossy appearance.

Are Ma’amoul cookies gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends. Texture and results may vary.

Conclusion

Middle Eastern Date-Filled Ma’amoul Cookies are a delightful combination of heritage, flavor, and artistry. Soft, lightly spiced, and filled with sweet date paste, they’re perfect for both everyday treats and special celebrations. Easy to prepare and deeply rooted in tradition, this Ma’amoul recipe is a meaningful and delicious way to share culture and comfort in every bite.