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Flaky Date Crescents: Authentic Lebanese Sambusik Recipe

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Lebanese Sambusik & Date Crescents Recipe

Description

Lebanese Sambusik, also known as Date Crescents, are delightful cookies that blend the sweetness of dates with a buttery, flaky pastry. These cookies are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, and they store exceptionally well in cookie tins. While traditionally made with date filling, you can also try a variation with a walnut filling for a nutty twist. These cookies are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Approximately 30 cookies

Ingredients

Quantity Ingredient
2 1/2 cups flour
1/4 cup butter
1/3 cup milk
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup olive oil
8 dates
1/4 cup butter (for date filling)
1 teaspoon rose water

For Walnut Filling (optional)

  • 1 1/2 cups walnuts, chopped
  • 1/4 cup caster sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon, mixed together

Instructions

  1. Prepare Dough:

    • Begin by rubbing the butter into the flour until it is evenly distributed, creating a crumbly texture.
    • Heat the milk and sugar in a saucepan, stirring until dissolved, then allow it to cool to lukewarm.
    • Pour the lukewarm milk and 1/4 cup of olive oil into the flour mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
    • Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  2. Make Date Filling:

    • Chop the dates and place them in a pan with 1/4 cup of butter.
    • Cook the dates over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture is combined and forms a paste-like consistency.
    • Remove the date mixture from heat and stir in the rose water until well blended.
  3. Assemble and Bake:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
    • Using a cookie cutter or a glass, cut the dough into 2-inch circles.
    • Place a teaspoon of the date filling in the center of each circle.
    • Fold the dough over the filling to form a crescent shape, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
    • Arrange the sambusik on ungreased baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cookies are lightly browned.
    • Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
  4. Optional Walnut Filling:

    • If desired, you can prepare a walnut filling by mixing chopped walnuts, caster sugar, and cinnamon together. Use this filling as an alternative to the date filling for a nutty variation.
  5. Storage:

    • Once the cookies are completely cooled, store them in airtight cookie tins to maintain their freshness.

These Lebanese Sambusik cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them as a midday snack or serving them at a gathering, they are sure to be a hit with everyone. So go ahead, indulge in these irresistible treats and savor the taste of Lebanon! 🍪✨

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