Name: Ghriba - Moroccan Almond Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 200 g almond flour; 100 g granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon orange blossom water; Powdered sugar (for coating)

Why Make This Recipe

Ghriba are delightful Moroccan almond cookies that are perfect for any occasion. They are simple to make and offer a unique flavor that combines the richness of almonds with the subtle sweetness of orange blossom water. These cookies are naturally gluten-free and make a great treat for those who love almond flavors. Plus, they are a wonderful way to share a taste of Moroccan culture with friends and family.

How to Make Ghriba

Ingredients:

200 g almond flour
100 g granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
1 tablespoon orange blossom water
Powdered sugar (for coating)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a large bowl, mix together the almond flour, granulated sugar, and baking powder.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and orange blossom water to the dry ingredients. Stir until you have a soft dough.
Lightly flour your hands and shape the dough into balls about the size of a walnut.
Roll each ball in powdered sugar to coat.
Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and slightly flatten them.
Bake in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes.
Let them rest for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

How to Serve Ghriba

Ghriba can be served warm or at room temperature. They are great with tea or coffee and can be presented on a beautiful platter for guests. You might want to dust them with extra powdered sugar for a lovely touch.

How to Store Ghriba

To keep your Ghriba fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Tips to Make Ghriba

Make sure the almond flour is very fine for the best texture.
Don’t overbake; the cookies should be soft in the center.
Adjust the sugar to your taste if you prefer them less sweet.

Variation

You can also try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for an extra layer of flavor in your Ghriba. Some people like to incorporate chopped almonds or other nuts into the dough for added texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?

No, traditional Ghriba is made with almond flour, which gives it its unique flavor and gluten-free quality.

2. What can I use instead of orange blossom water?

If you can’t find orange blossom water, you can substitute it with rose water, or simply omit it, though it will change the flavor slightly.

3. Can I make Ghriba ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a couple of days before baking. This can make it easy to enjoy fresh cookies whenever you want!