Name: Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 2.5 cups all-purpose flour; 0.5 cup unsalted butter (melted); 0.25 cup water (rose water can be used for added fragrance); 0.125 teaspoon salt; 2 cups almonds (blanched and finely ground); 0.5 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.5 teaspoon orange blossom water; 1.5 cups honey; 0.5 cup water; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

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Introduction

Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars are delicate pastries filled with a fragrant almond mixture and soaked in sweet honey syrup. Crispy on the outside and rich with aromatic flavors, these treats are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying alongside tea.

Three shiny golden-brown rolled pastries sit stacked on a white plate with a white marbled texture underneath. Each roll shows a visible filling of chopped nuts tightly packed inside, with a sticky glaze giving the outer layer a glossy look. White flakes of sea salt or sugar are sprinkled over the rolls, adding texture and contrast. An almond lies near the edge of the plate, enhancing the nutty theme. The background is softly blurred with warm tones. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2.5 cups all-purpose flour
0.5 cup unsalted butter (melted)
0.25 cup water (rose water can be used for added fragrance)
0.125 teaspoon salt
2 cups almonds (blanched and finely ground)
0.5 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
0.5 teaspoon orange blossom water
1.5 cups honey
0.5 cup water
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the melted butter and water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.
Step 2: While the dough rests, prepare the filling by mixing the ground almonds, sugar, cinnamon, and orange blossom water in a separate bowl until well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the syrup by combining honey, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the honey dissolves. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to cool.
Step 4: Roll out the dough thinly on a lightly floured surface. Cut into rectangles approximately 3 by 5 inches.
Step 5: Place a tablespoon of the almond filling at one end of each dough rectangle. Roll up tightly, like a cigar, pressing the edges to seal.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the rolled cigars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 7: Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Step 8: Immediately after removing from the oven, dip the warm cigars into the cooled honey syrup. Let them soak for a few minutes to absorb the syrup.
Step 9: Remove the cigars from the syrup and place them on a wire rack to drain.

Tips & Variations

For a more floral aroma, substitute the water in the dough with rose water.
Try to finely grind the almonds for a smooth filling texture.
Orange blossom water adds authentic flavor, but you can omit it if unavailable.
Serve with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and aroma.

Storage

Store the cooled Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To maintain their crispiness, avoid refrigerating. If they soften, you can re-crisp them briefly in a warm oven before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows four shiny, caramel-colored rolled pastries stacked on a white plate. Each roll has a translucent, glossy outer layer with a tightly rolled inner filling that is darker brown in color. The surface of the rolls is sprinkled with small chopped nuts, adding texture and contrast. The rolls are arranged close together, with some whole almonds placed casually around the plate. The background features a soft focus with a white marbled texture underneath the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use almond meal instead of grinding my own almonds?

Yes, almond meal works well as a convenient substitute, just ensure it is finely ground for the best texture.

Is it necessary to dip the cigars in honey syrup while warm?

Dipping the cigars while warm helps them absorb the syrup thoroughly, resulting in a moist and flavorful treat. If dipped cold, the syrup will not soak in as effectively.