Middle Eastern > Lebanese > Baked Goods

Date and Walnut Kue Kaak Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup pitted and chopped dates
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour

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

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is foamy.
2. Add the vegetable oil, sugar, and salt to the bowl and mix until combined.
3. Add the flour one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together.
4. Add the chopped walnuts and dates to the dough and mix until evenly distributed.
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 375°F.
7. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
9. Flatten each ball into a disk and use a knife to make a cross in the center of each disk.
10. Bake the kue kaak for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
11. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
12 kue kaak

Nutritional information:
Calories: 310
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 17g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of nut in place of the walnuts, such as almonds or pecans.
- You can use any type of dried fruit in place of the dates, such as raisins or dried cranberries.
- You can use honey or maple syrup in place of the sugar.

Variations:
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough for a spiced flavor.
- Drizzle the kue kaak with melted chocolate for a decadent touch.
- Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the dough for a citrusy flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure your yeast is fresh and not expired for the best rise.
- If your dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it comes together.
- You can freeze the kue kaak for up to 3 months.

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

Reheating instructions:
To reheat the kue kaak, wrap it in foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the kue kaak on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped walnuts or dates on top of the kue kaak for added texture.

Pairings:
Serve the kue kaak with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
The kue kaak is a sweet treat and does not require a side dish.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If your dough is not rising, make sure your yeast is fresh and that the water is warm but not too hot.
- If your kue kaak is too dry, try adding a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the dough.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and any equipment that comes into contact with the dough to prevent contamination.

Food history:
Kue kaak is a traditional Middle Eastern pastry that is often served during Ramadan.

Flavor profiles:
The kue kaak is sweet and nutty with a chewy texture.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the kue kaak as a dessert or snack.

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Region: Lebanese

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Aromatic, Rich