Kleicha (Iraqi Date-Filled Cookies)

Discover the sweet and fragrant flavors of Iraqi cuisine with Kleicha, a traditional cookie filled with dates and spiced with cardamom and cinnamon. These delicate pastries are often enjoyed during festive occasions, offering a delightful combination of soft filling and tender, buttery dough. Perfect for sharing with family or savoring with a cup of tea, Kleicha is a timeless treat that embodies the warmth of Middle Eastern hospitality.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk (or as needed)

For the Filling:

• 2 cups pitted dates, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water (optional)

For Decoration (Optional):

• Sesame seeds or powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

   In a large bowl, cream together the butter, oil, and sugar until smooth. Mix in the cardamom, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add flour, alternating with milk, until a soft, pliable dough forms. Cover and let rest for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling

   In a small bowl, combine the chopped dates with cinnamon, cardamom, melted butter, and orange blossom water if using. Mix until a sticky, uniform paste forms.

3. Shape the Kleicha

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a small portion of dough (about the size of a walnut) and flatten it into a disc. Place a teaspoon of date filling in the center and fold the dough over to seal, shaping it into a round or oval cookie. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.

4. Bake

   Place the filled cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden. Allow to cool slightly.

5. Serve

   Serve Kleicha at room temperature with tea or coffee. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving for extra sweetness.

Serving

Kleicha is perfect for festive celebrations, family gatherings, or as a sweet treat any time of the year. Its tender pastry and aromatic date filling make it a beloved cookie across the Middle East, cherished for generations.