Modern Kleicha Cookies (Print Format)

Enjoy this wholesome twist on a classic Iraqi cookie, made with spiced almond dough and natural sweeteners. Great pairing for your coffee or tea.

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 and 1/4 cups of rice flour.
02 - 1 cup of ground-up almonds.
03 - One teaspoon of salt.
04 - A pinch of cardamom powder, about 1/4 tsp.
05 - 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon.
06 - Around 1/3 cup (80ml) melted coconut oil.
07 - A third of a cup (80ml) of whatever type of milk you prefer.
08 - 250g of soft, pitted dates.
09 - Half a cup (120ml) of water.
10 - A teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
11 - A teaspoon of cardamom.
12 - Small pinch of salt.
13 - Sesame seeds to sprinkle on top.

# Steps:

01 - Simmer your dates and water over low to medium heat. Mash them up until you’ve got a smooth, spreadable mix.
02 - Combine flour, almonds, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom. Slowly stir in the coconut oil and milk. If the dough feels soft, chill it for 20-30 minutes.
03 - Using half the dough at a time, roll out two rectangles (about 28x18cm each). Spread date mixture evenly on top.
04 - Roll the rectangles into logs tightly with parchment paper. Freeze for half an hour. Slice them into pieces about 1/2 an inch thick.
05 - Sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Bake in a 350°F oven for roughly 20 minutes until they look golden brown.
06 - Allow everything to cool fully before eating. Keep them in the fridge after cooling.

# Tips:

01 - Easily sub rice flour if going gluten-free.
02 - Refrigerates well for storage.
03 - Tastes even better the next day.