Makroud (Semolina Date Cookies)

 Ingredients:

• 2 cups coarse semolina
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 cup pitted dates (finely chopped)
• 1 tbsp orange blossom water
• Honey (for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the semolina, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add the melted butter and olive oil. Rub the mixture between your hands until the texture resembles wet sand.
2. Gradually add warm water and knead until the dough comes together. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. Mix the chopped dates with orange blossom water to make the filling.
4. Roll out the dough into a long rectangle. Place the date filling along the center of the dough.
5. Fold the dough over the filling and press to seal. Cut into diamond shapes.
6. Fry the cookies in hot oil until golden brown.
7. Drizzle the cookies with honey before serving.