Can I replace rice flour with something else?

For a non-gluten-free option, spelt flour works great. You can also go with all-purpose flour instead.

Why does the dough need to chill?

Chilling the dough sets the coconut oil, making it less sticky and easier to roll out. Skip this if it's already firm.

What nuts can I swap in?

Instead of ground almonds, try walnuts or pistachios for a different flavor, though it won't taste quite like the classic.

How long can I store them?

They last around two weeks in the fridge if in an airtight container. They actually taste better after a couple of days.

Are these freezer-friendly?

Yes, pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Kleicha - Light & Tasty Date Treats

Three sweet date-filled cookies stacked and coated lightly with sugar, shown under soft focus. | lilicooks.com

Bring a taste of Iraq to your home with Kleicha. These tasty treats filled with dates pack warm spices and natural sweetness that's just right for your afternoon tea.

What You'll Need

Base of 2 cups ground almonds
Filling from 1 cup dates
A pinch each of cardamom cinnamon
Maple syrup for extra sweetness if wanted
Sesame seeds for topping

Easy Steps

Create Dough: Combine almonds with spices to shape dough
Fill It Up: Layer date paste then roll into a log
Cut and Cook: Slice into cookies then bake until golden

Helpful Hints

Put dough in fridge if it's too soft. Stick logs in freezer for better slicing. Use a sharp knife for clean edges.

A plate of sweet, rolled desserts filled with a dark jam-like center, topped with sesame seeds, surrounded by a cozy, softly lit setting. | lilicooks.com

Keeping Fresh

Store in a sealed container in your fridge. They make wonderful gifts for special events.

Try Variations

Toss some nuts into your filling. Switch dates for figs or apricots. Add a touch of honey or maple if you want.

Great Companions

Enjoy with a cup of spiced tea or coffee. Get the full Middle Eastern vibe.

Good For You

Dates give you fiber. Almonds pack healthy fats. You won't find any processed sugar here.

A plate of rolled sweets with a sweet filling and sprinkled sesame seeds, set against a dark background with decorative elements. | lilicooks.com

Smooth Rolling

Try using parchment as your guide. Roll softly but firmly. This stops gaps in your filling.

Tweak The Sweetness

Throw in some honey or maple syrup. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. You can make it just as sweet as you like.

No Nuts Needed

Swap almonds for oat flour. It still gives you that soft texture.

Zesty Kick

Pop in some lemon or orange zest. It really wakes up the taste.

Make Ahead

Keep logs in the freezer up to three months. Just slice and bake when you want them.

A stack of three halved, sesame-coated snacks revealing a dark, sweet filling inside. | lilicooks.com

Festive Treat

Great for Christmas or Eid parties. Everyone loves those pretty spirals.

New Stuffings

Give nuts, apple mix or chocolate a go. Put a new spin on this old favorite.

Kid-Friendly Fun

Let the kids join in mixing and shaping. You'll make lasting kitchen memories together.

Drink Matches

Goes well with Riesling or Muscat. Makes for a fancy dessert combo.

Heritage Touch

Connects you to Iraqi roots. Helps you share old family customs.

A plate of rolled sweets filled with a dark fruit paste and coated in finely ground nuts, garnished with sesame seeds, set against a dark background. | lilicooks.com

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I replace rice flour with something else?: For a non-gluten-free option, spelt flour works great. You can also go with all-purpose flour instead.
→ Why does the dough need to chill?: Chilling the dough sets the coconut oil, making it less sticky and easier to roll out. Skip this if it's already firm.
→ What nuts can I swap in?: Instead of ground almonds, try walnuts or pistachios for a different flavor, though it won't taste quite like the classic.
→ How long can I store them?: They last around two weeks in the fridge if in an airtight container. They actually taste better after a couple of days.
→ Are these freezer-friendly?: Yes, pop them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Modern Kleicha Cookies