5 Must-Try Moroccan Desserts to Sweeten Your Day

http://healthyharvestrecipes.com/

Moroccan cuisine is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, and their desserts are no exception. If you've got a sweet tooth, you're in for a treat. From nutty pastries to syrup-soaked cakes, Moroccan desserts are a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in something new and exciting. Here are five Moroccan desserts that will surely sweeten your day.

Key Takeaways

• Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup, often found in Moroccan cuisine.
• Cornes de Gazelle, or Gazelle Horns, are crescent-shaped cookies filled with almond paste, flavored with orange blossom water.
• M'hanncha, known as the 'snake cake,' is a coiled pastry filled with almond paste and flavored with cinnamon and orange blossom.
• Basbousa is a semolina cake soaked in simple syrup, often garnished with coconut or nuts, popular in Moroccan desserts.
• Aish El Saraya is a bread-based dessert topped with a creamy layer, often flavored with rose or orange blossom water.

1. Baklava

Baklava is one of those desserts that feels like a special occasion every time you have it. Layers of thin, crispy phyllo dough filled with a mix of nuts and spices, all drenched in a sweet syrup, make it a truly indulgent treat. Originating from the Ottoman Empire, it's now a beloved dessert across the Middle East and beyond.

The Art of Making Baklava

Making baklava isn't just about following a recipe; it's an art form. Traditionally, baklava is made by layering sheets of phyllo dough, each brushed with butter, and then adding a filling of finely chopped nuts, usually walnuts, pistachios, or almonds, mixed with sugar and spices. Once layered, it's cut into pieces and baked until golden. As soon as it comes out of the oven, a sweet syrup, often flavored with honey, lemon, and sometimes a hint of rose or orange blossom water, is poured over the hot pastry, soaking into the layers.

Tips for Perfect Baklava

1. Use Fresh Phyllo Dough: Fresh phyllo is key to achieving the perfect flaky texture.
2. Don’t Skimp on Butter: Each layer should be brushed with melted butter to ensure crispiness.
3. Let it Rest: Allow the baklava to sit for several hours or overnight after adding the syrup. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.

A Modern Twist

For those who might find the traditional method a bit daunting, there's an easy baklava recipe that simplifies the process by using store-bought phyllo dough and a quick syrup. This version still delivers that irresistible combination of flaky pastry, crunchy nuts, and sweet syrup without the lengthy preparation time.

"Baklava is not just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavors and textures, a testament to the rich culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations."

Whether you stick with the classic or try a quicker version, baklava is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Its sweet, nutty goodness is perfect for sharing with friends and family, making any moment a little more special.

2. Cornes De Gazelle

Cornes De Gazelle, also known as Gazelle Horns, are a classic Moroccan pastry celebrated for their crescent shape and delicate almond flavor. These delightful treats are often enjoyed during special occasions and festivities.

Ingredients

• Almonds
• Sugar
• Butter
• Egg
• Orange blossom water

The filling is made from roasted almonds, sugar, butter, and egg, enhanced with a splash of orange blossom water. Some variations might include rosewater, ground cinnamon, cardamom, or lemon to give a unique twist.

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Dough: Mix flour, butter, and a pinch of salt, adding water gradually until you form a smooth dough. Let it rest.
2. Make the Filling: Blend roasted almonds with sugar, butter, egg, and orange blossom water into a smooth paste.
3. Shape the Pastries: Roll out the dough thinly, cut into circles, and place a spoonful of almond paste on each. Fold and shape into crescents.
4. Bake: Arrange on a baking sheet and bake until lightly golden.

Making Cornes De Gazelle is a labor of love. While the process is a bit intricate, the result is a pastry that’s both beautiful and delicious. Each bite offers a delicate balance of sweet almond filling and fragrant pastry.

These pastries are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them a perfect addition to any dessert spread.

3. M'hanncha

M'hanncha, often called the "serpent cake," is a delightful Moroccan pastry that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. This dessert is a show-stopper, perfect for impressing guests with its intricate spiral shape and rich flavors.

What Makes M'hanncha Special?

M'hanncha is made from layers of delicate pastry filled with a sweet almond paste. The filling is typically a mix of almonds, sugar, and fragrant orange blossom water, all wrapped in thin pastry layers known as warqa. Once baked, it’s drizzled with honey and sprinkled with a dusting of powdered sugar or nuts, creating a blend of textures and flavors that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 500g Almonds
• 225g Granulated Sugar
• 60g Unsalted Butter, softened
• 40ml Orange Blossom Water
• 10 Warqa Leaves
• 1 Large Egg Yolk, slightly beaten
• 100g Unsalted Butter, melted
• 1 Cup Honey mixed with a little orange blossom water
• Ground or sliced almonds for garnish

Steps to Make M'hanncha

1. Prepare the Almond Paste:
2. Assemble the Pastry:
3. Bake and Finish:

Pro Tip: To save time, you can prepare M'hanncha in advance, freeze it, and bake it fresh on the day you plan to serve.

M'hanncha not only delights with its taste but also with its presentation, making it a perfect centerpiece for any occasion. It's like the Chajá Cake of Uruguay, where layers and flavors come together to create a truly indulgent experience.

4. Basbousa

Basbousa is a delightful semolina cake that's incredibly popular across the Middle East, especially in Morocco. It's a sweet, moist cake that's made with simple ingredients but offers a rich taste. The magic of Basbousa lies in the syrup that soaks into the cake, making it irresistibly moist and flavorful.

Ingredients

• Semolina
• Sugar
• Coconut
• Butter
• Yogurt
• Milk
• Baking powder
• Baking soda

Preparation Steps

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: Start by combining semolina, sugar, coconut, baking powder, and baking soda in a bowl.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Pour in melted butter, yogurt, and milk, mixing well until you get a smooth batter.
3. Bake: Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake until golden brown.
4. Soak with Syrup: Once out of the oven, immediately pour a sugar syrup over the cake. You can flavor the syrup with rose water, orange blossom water, or vanilla for an extra touch.
5. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool and soak up the syrup before cutting it into squares.

"Basbousa is more than just a dessert; it's a sweet reminder of gatherings and celebrations, bringing warmth and joy to every bite."

For a traditional twist on this classic dessert, check out this almond basboussa recipe that adds a nutty flavor to the mix, making it even more delectable.

5. Aish El Saraya

Aish El Saraya is a delightful Middle Eastern dessert that might just become your new favorite sweet treat. Imagine a dessert that combines the richness of clotted cream with the sweetness of syrup-soaked bread. This dessert is both luxurious and comforting, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• Bread crumbs
• Sugar
• Water
• Lemon juice
• Rose water
• Orange blossom water
• Clotted cream
• Pistachios (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Syrup: Start by combining sugar, water, and a splash of lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer until it thickens slightly. Add rose water and orange blossom water for that signature floral aroma.
2. Prepare the Bread Base: Toast the bread crumbs until golden brown. Spread them evenly in a serving dish.
3. Assemble the Dessert: Pour the syrup over the toasted bread crumbs, making sure they're fully soaked. Let it sit for a bit to absorb all the flavors.
4. Top with Cream: Spread a generous layer of clotted cream over the soaked bread crumbs.
5. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top for a bit of crunch and color.

Aish El Saraya is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Its fragrant, floral notes paired with the creamy texture make it a dish to remember.

If you're looking to explore more desserts like Aish El Saraya, you might enjoy the traditional dishes collection which includes a variety of classic Middle Eastern sweets.

Wrapping Up Our Sweet Journey

So, there you have it! Five Moroccan desserts that are sure to add a little sweetness to your day. Whether you're a fan of nutty, fruity, or creamy treats, there's something in Moroccan cuisine for everyone. These desserts are not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; they're a delightful way to experience a bit of Morocco's rich culture and tradition. So why not give them a try? You might just find a new favorite dessert. Enjoy the adventure of flavors and happy tasting!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Baklava made of?

Baklava is a sweet dessert made of layers of thin pastry filled with nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.

How do you store Cornes De Gazelle?

Store Cornes De Gazelle in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.

What is the main ingredient in M'hanncha?

M'hanncha is primarily made with almond paste wrapped in pastry dough, often shaped into a coil.

Is Basbousa gluten-free?

No, Basbousa is not gluten-free as it is made with semolina, which contains gluten.

How is Aish El Saraya served?

Aish El Saraya is served chilled, topped with a layer of creamy clotted cream and sometimes garnished with nuts.

Can I make these desserts at home?

Yes, with the right ingredients and recipes, you can make these Moroccan desserts at home.