IRAQI KLEICHA

Kleicha (كليجة) is a traditional Iraqi cookie often called the national cookie of Iraq. It’s especially popular during festive occasions.

Iraqi Kleicha (Date-Filled Cookies)

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 tablespoon instant yeast

• 120 ml warm water (warm to the touch)

• 500 g self-raising flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon ground cardamom

• 120 ml vegetable oil

• 120 g melted unsalted butter

For the Date Filling:

• 900 g date paste

• 50 g unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional for Garnish:

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

• Sesame seeds

Instructions

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, salt, yeast, and ground cardamom using the dough hook.

Add the melted butter and vegetable oil, then mix until fully incorporated.

Gradually add the warm water and continue mixing until a soft, smooth dough forms.

Cover and let the dough rest for 30 minutes in a warm place.

In a frying pan, melt the butter over low heat.

Add the date paste and stir until soft and smooth.

Mix in the ground cinnamon, then set aside to cool slightly.

Place half of the date paste between two sheets of parchment paper.

Roll it out into a rectangle (about 0.5 cm thick).

Repeat the same process with the dough, rolling it into a similar rectangular shape.

Carefully transfer the flattened date paste onto the rolled-out dough.

Gently roll the dough and filling together into a tight log.

Roll again lightly to elongate the log slightly.

Cut into slices of your desired thickness.

Arrange the slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds, if using.

Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Allow the kleicha to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy warm or at room temperature with tea or coffee.