Top 3 Saudi Arabia Sweet Snacks with Dates (Recipes Included!)
Dates are a staple in Saudi Arabia, and they’re used in some of the most delicious and traditional sweet snacks in the country. In this post, we’ll dive into the top 3 sweet snacks that feature dates as their main ingredient, and I’ll share their easy-to-follow recipes so you can enjoy a taste of Saudi Arabia at home. Let’s get started with these mouthwatering Saudi date snacks!
1. Date Stuffed Ma'amoul Cookies
Ma'amoul is a beloved Middle Eastern pastry that’s often filled with dates, nuts, or figs. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are a staple in Saudi Arabia and are often served during special occasions like Eid or Ramadan.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped (Try Bennhail's Premium Dates Collection for the best quality dates)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup ghee or unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp orange blossom water (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Date Filling: Start by heating the chopped dates in a small pan over low heat until they soften. Stir occasionally and add a little water if needed. Once softened, remove from heat and let them cool. For the best results, use Sukari Dates, known for their sweet and rich flavor.
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix the flour, powdered sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Add the ghee or butter and vanilla extract. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and pliable. You may need to add a little water if the dough is too dry.
- Form the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, then flatten them slightly. Place a spoonful of the date filling in the center and pinch the edges to seal the cookie. Use a ma’amoul mold or your hands to shape them into small discs.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden. Let the cookies cool before serving.
Why You’ll Love It:
The date filling blends perfectly with the buttery, spiced dough, offering a rich and satisfying flavor. It’s no wonder Ma'amoul is considered one of the best Saudi sweets with dates!
Related Product: You can enhance your Ma'amoul cookies with Bennhail's Premium Dates, like Ajwa Dates, for a truly authentic flavor.
2. Saffron Date Cake (Bastani)
This aromatic and decadent cake is made with dates, saffron, and a touch of cardamom. It’s moist, rich, and perfect for any special occasion, often served with a cup of Arabic coffee.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped (Bennhail’s Ajwa Dates are perfect for this recipe)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground saffron, dissolved in 1 tbsp warm water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dates: Soak the chopped dates in warm water for about 10 minutes. Drain and mash them with a fork or blend to a smooth paste. For a richer flavor, try Sukari Dates as they provide a deep sweetness perfect for cakes.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and saffron mixture until light and fluffy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour, cardamom, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Everything: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while alternating with milk. Fold in the mashed dates and stir to combine.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and pour the batter into it. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Serve: Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. This cake pairs wonderfully with Arabic coffee or any of Bennhail’s coffee collection.
Why You’ll Love It:
The rich saffron aroma combined with the sweetness of dates makes this cake an unforgettable treat. The moist texture and warm spices make it the perfect dessert for any occasion. The inclusion of Bennhail’s dates adds a depth of flavor that you won’t find anywhere else!
Related Products: Check out our Saffron and Cardamom to add even more flavor to your desserts.
3. Date and Nut Bars (Barazek)
Barazek is a sweet, crunchy snack popular in Saudi Arabia. It combines dates, nuts, and sesame seeds, making it a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dates, pitted and chopped (Try Bennhail's Sukari Dates for this recipe)
- 1/2 cup roasted almonds, chopped
- 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp ghee or butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Prepare the Date Mixture: In a small saucepan, heat the chopped dates, honey, and ghee over low heat until the dates soften. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Combine Nuts and Seeds: Once the dates have softened, remove from heat and fold in the chopped almonds, pistachios, sesame seeds, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix well.
- Shape the Bars: Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press the mixture firmly into a flat, compact layer.
- Chill and Cut: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about an hour to set. Once firm, remove and cut into bars.
Why You’ll Love It:
This snack is crunchy, sweet, and packed with nutrients from the dates and nuts. It’s perfect as a mid-afternoon treat or as a quick energy boost during busy days. You can also enjoy it alongside Bennhail's Arabic coffee for the ultimate Saudi snack experience.
Related Product: Looking for high-quality dates? Try Bennhail's Sukari Dates for the best taste and texture.
FAQs About Saudi Arabia Sweet Snacks with Dates
1. What makes dates such an important ingredient in Saudi sweets?
Dates are not only delicious but also culturally significant in Saudi Arabia. They’re packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy addition to any snack. For an authentic taste, try Bennhail’s Ajwa Dates.
2. Can I substitute the dates in these recipes with other fruits?
While dates are the star of these recipes, you can try substituting them with figs or dried apricots, but the flavor and texture will be different. Dates give a rich sweetness that’s hard to match! For the best flavor, stick with Bennhail’s premium dates.
3. Are these Saudi sweet snacks suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all the recipes shared here are vegetarian-friendly! Just make sure to check for any specific ingredient preferences (like ghee or butter) if you're following a vegan diet.
4. Where can I find Saudi dates for these recipes?
You can easily find high-quality Saudi dates, such as Sukari or Ajwa, at specialty grocery stores or online marketplaces that sell Middle Eastern ingredients. For the best experience, check out Bennhail’s Dates Collection.
5. Can I make these snacks ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare these snacks ahead of time and store them in airtight containers. Ma'amoul cookies and Date and Nut Bars will stay fresh for several days, and the Saffron Date Cake can last for up to a week.
By making these delicious Saudi Arabian sweet snacks with dates, you’re not only indulging in a treat but also connecting with the rich traditions of Saudi Arabian cuisine.
I hope you enjoy these recipes and bring a little taste of Saudi Arabia into your kitchen!
