Buttery Middle Eastern Date Cookies With Sweet Spiced Centers

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

The date cookies are buttery shortbread wrapped around a spiced date paste. I cook the dates down so the filling is smooth and stays put instead of oozing.

This easy-to-follow recipe for Middle Eastern Date Cookies delivers rich flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The aroma of spices and baked goods fills your kitchen, making them irresistible.

Delicious Date-Filled Cookies

These cookies feature a tender, buttery exterior with a sweet filling made from dates and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. They are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven and can also be stored for later enjoyment, making them an excellent addition to any dessert table.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup pitted dates, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, combine the chopped dates, cinnamon, nutmeg, and nuts if using. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Cookies: Take a small piece of dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a teaspoon of the date filling in the center and fold the dough over to encase the filling. Gently shape it into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Repeat with the remaining dough and filling. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden on the bottom.
Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.