Description
Traditional Moroccan honey almond cigars are crispy pastry rolls filled with sweet almond paste, fried until golden, and coated in fragrant honey. A delightful dessert often served during celebrations and with tea.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups blanched almonds, finely ground
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp orange blossom water
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 8–10 sheets warqa or phyllo dough
- 2 tbsp melted butter or oil (for brushing)
- 1 cup honey
- 1 tsp orange blossom water (for honey)
- Oil for frying
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix ground almonds, powdered sugar, cinnamon, orange blossom water, and melted butter to form a paste.
- Shape the almond mixture into small logs.
- Cut pastry sheets into rectangles and brush lightly with melted butter or oil.
- Place almond logs near one edge and roll tightly into cigar shapes, folding in the sides.
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
- Fry the cigars until golden brown and crispy.
- Warm honey with orange blossom water.
- Dip fried cigars into warm honey, coating well.
- Place on a tray and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Keep pastry covered to prevent drying.
- Do not overcrowd the pan when frying.
- Adjust sweetness by varying honey amount.
- Best served fresh or the same day.
- Pairs perfectly with Moroccan mint tea.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Moroccan