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Kahk, the beloved Egyptian Eid cookies, are more than just a sweet treat; they are a symbol of celebration, family, and tradition. Each year during the Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha festivals, families across Egypt prepare these delightful cookies, filling their homes with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked sweets. Kahk is often adorned with powdered sugar, showcasing their festive allure, and is traditionally filled with an array of delicious ingredients, making them a favorite among young and old alike.

Egyptian Eid Cookies AKA Kahk

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Egypt with this Kahk recipe, perfect for celebrating Eid! These buttery cookies are filled with a delicious nut and cinnamon mixture, offering a sweet treat that's sure to impress. With easy steps to create your dough, fill, and shape the cookies, you'll have a batch ready in no time. Dust them with powdered sugar before serving for a charming touch. Enjoy them warm with tea or coffee and share the joy of this festive tradition!

Ingredients
  

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp ground mahlab (optional for authentic flavor)

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup milk (adjust as needed)

1 cup finely chopped walnuts, almonds, or a mixture

1 tsp ground cinnamon

Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and vegetable oil until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue mixing. Incorporate the vanilla extract and ground mahlab (if using) until well mixed.

    Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, until a soft dough forms.

      Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a small ball of dough (about the size of a walnut), flatten it slightly, and place a teaspoon of chopped nuts mixed with ground cinnamon in the center. Fold over the dough to encase the filling completely and shape into a smooth ball.

        Create Designs: Optional—use a fork or a traditional kahk mold to create designs on the surface of the cookies. This step adds a beautiful touch to your cookies.

          Bake: Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet, leaving space in between. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden. They should not brown on top, as you want them to remain pale.

            Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the sheet for a few minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar.

              Serve: These cookies are best served with tea or coffee, and they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

                Prep Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 24 cookies