In the world of desserts, macaroons hold a special place for their unique flavor and traditional ingredients. This modern take on the classic Eastern macaroon adds a fresh, healthy, and easy-to-make twist, combining the zest of lemon with the crunch of pistachios — making it an ideal treat for lovers of light and distinctive sweets.
اضافة اعلان
Traditionally, Eastern macaroons are made from semolina, olive oil, and anise, then deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup. However, this updated version skips the frying and instead uses nut-based ingredients and healthy butter, creating a more wholesome, fuss-free cookie.
Ingredients (Makes 15 pieces):
125 g finely ground pistachios
125 g ground almonds
100 g caster sugar
½ tsp ground mastic (mastika)
¼ tsp baking powder
A pinch of salt (approx. ⅛ tsp)
2 tsp finely chopped preserved lemon
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp vanilla bean paste
1 tbsp runny honey
1 lightly beaten egg
15 g unsalted butter, softened
2–3 tbsp sifted icing sugar (for coating)
Preparation:
Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground pistachios, ground almonds, caster sugar, ground mastic, baking powder, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
Add the flavor elements
Stir in the preserved lemon, lemon zest, vanilla paste, honey, beaten egg, and butter. Mix using a wooden or silicone spoon until the mixture forms a soft, slightly sticky dough.
Shape the cookies
Sift the icing sugar into a shallow plate. Scoop out dough and shape into walnut-sized balls (about 30 g each), then gently roll each ball in the icing sugar until well-coated.
Chill
Place the coated balls onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the dough.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 175°C (fan setting).
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool and serve
Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving.
Storage Tips:
Freezing (pre-baked):
Shaped dough balls can be frozen in an airtight container, protected from moisture, for several weeks before baking.
After baking:
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, keeping their texture and delicious flavor intact.
