Egyptian El Menenas Almond Paste Cookies Food

MELT-IN-MOUTH COOKIES, EGYPTIAN STYLE - GHORAYEBAH

Steps:

• Beat butter till white.
• Add Sugar and beat for 3 more minutes.
• Add A.P. flour, salt and beat for 2 minutes.
• Garnish with ½ Almond or a pine (as per photo).
• Roll it into small balls and slightly press it down by your thumb (with the almond to stick on it).
• The dough consistency should be like the moist sand but when you squeeze it in your hand-plum it should hold it self.
• leave it to rest in the Fridge for 15min.
• Bake in medium-low pre-heated oven (color should be like ivory) don't let it blush!

EGYPTIAN EL MENENAS (ALMOND PASTE COOKIES)

Steps:

• Add sugar to the almond paste; mix well. Add 1 teaspoons orange flower water and cinnamon to taste (at least 1/2 tsp). Blend well into a smooth paste.
• In a bowl, combine melted butter with flour. Add the other teaspoons of orange flower water. Knead into a dough that holds together. Do not add any water unless absolutely necessary.
• Form balls about 1.5 - 2 inches round. Make a depression in the center of each ball with your thumb. Fill hole with almond paste.
• Place on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375 for 30 minutes or until nicely browned. Sprinkle with grandulated sugar.
• VARIATION: A date filling can be substituted for the almond one. Chop 1/2 lb. pitted dates and combine into a paste with 4 T. soft butter.