🇲🇦 Morocco · Dessert
Ghriba Bel Louz
By eatmundo · August 3, 2026
🇲🇦 MAThese traditional Moroccan almond shortbread cookies feature a beautifully cracked surface and a chewy, dense center. They are scented with orange blossom water, offering an elegant finish to any meal.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine 500g of almond flour and 250g of powdered sugar, ensuring no lumps remain.
- 3
Add the 3 large egg whites, 2 tbsp orange blossom water, 1 tsp lemon zest, and a pinch of salt to the dry mixture.
- 4
Mix by hand until you form a soft, moist dough that holds its shape when squeezed.
- 5
Roll the dough into small balls about the size of a walnut and flatten them slightly with your palm.
- 6
Arrange the balls on the tray, leaving 2cm of space, and bake for 12-15 minutes until the tops are crackled but the centers remain soft.
- 7
Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the tray, as they are fragile when hot.
- 8
Store in an airtight container to maintain their signature chewy texture for up to a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn't my cookies crack?+
The cracking is caused by the steam escaping; ensure you don't over-bake them, as a dry crust will not crack properly.
Can I use store-bought almond meal?+
Yes, but finely ground blanched almonds yield the most authentic, smooth texture typical of Fassi pastry.
How do I know they are done?+
The cookies should be pale with a light golden bottom; if they turn dark brown, they will become too hard.
Can I add cinnamon?+
While not traditional for this recipe, a tiny dusting of cinnamon can enhance the floral notes of the orange blossom water.
🇲🇦 MAMundo Match
Dishes across the world that share Ghriba Bel Louz's core ingredients.
