Middle Eastern > Lebanese > Lebanese Desserts

Almond Kue Kaak Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1 egg, beaten

Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the all-purpose flour, almond flour, powdered sugar, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.

2. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is foamy.

3. Add the yeast mixture and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients in the stand mixer bowl. Mix on low speed until a dough forms.

4. Increase the speed to medium and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

5. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

7. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a rope about 8 inches long.

8. Shape each rope into a circle and pinch the ends together to form a ring.

9. Brush each ring with the beaten egg and sprinkle with slivered almonds.

10. Bake the almond kue kaak for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
Makes 12 almond kue kaak

Nutritional information:
Per serving:
Calories: 210
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 100mg
Sugar: 5g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almond flour can be substituted with hazelnut flour or coconut flour.
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with melted butter or coconut oil.
- Slivered almonds can be substituted with chopped pistachios or walnuts.

Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of raisins or chopped dried apricots to the dough for a fruity twist.
- Replace the slivered almonds with sesame seeds or poppy seeds for a different texture.
- Add 1/4 tsp of orange zest to the dough for a citrusy flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the yeast is fresh and not expired for the dough to rise properly.
- Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic for a better texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place to activate the yeast.
- Brush the egg wash lightly to avoid a soggy texture.
- Store the almond kue kaak in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Storage instructions:
Store the almond kue kaak in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat the almond kue kaak, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the almond kue kaak on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a simple presentation.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle the almond kue kaak with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey for a sweet touch.

Pairings:
Serve the almond kue kaak with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy snack.

Suggested side dishes:
Pair the almond kue kaak with fresh fruit or a cheese plate for a light snack.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of warm water at a time until it becomes smooth.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes smooth.
- If the almond kue kaak are not rising, make sure the yeast is fresh and the dough is in a warm place.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all equipment before preparing the recipe. Check the expiration date of the yeast and store it in a cool, dry place.

Food history:
Almond kue kaak is a traditional Middle Eastern pastry that is often served during special occasions such as weddings and Eid celebrations.

Flavor profiles:
The almond kue kaak has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor with warm spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the almond kue kaak as a snack or dessert with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

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Region: Lebanese

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Crunchy, Buttery