Instructions

Step 1: Soften the Butter

Start by softening the butter at room temperature. This will make it easier to mix with the other ingredients. If you’re in a hurry, cut the butter into small chunks and microwave for a few seconds until softened, but not melted.

Step 2: Prepare the Red Dates

The red dates are the star ingredient of these cookies. Remove the pits and chop the dates into small pieces. You can also use scissors to finely chop them. For a smoother texture, you can blend the dates into smaller bits using a food processor.

Step 3: Mix the Flour and Powdered Sugar

Sift the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar together to remove any lumps, which will help make a smoother dough. Then, add this dry mixture into the softened butter, along with the egg liquid, and knead until you form a smooth dough.

Step 4: Add the Red Dates

Once the dough is smooth, add the chopped red dates and knead by hand to evenly distribute them throughout the dough. You can adjust the amount of red dates depending on your personal taste.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Shape the dough into a rectangle or cylinder shape, wrap it in plastic wrap, and place it in the freezer for 1 hour to firm up. Chilling the dough will make it easier to slice and ensures that the cookies will have a crispier texture when baked.

Step 6: Slice and Bake

Once the dough is firm, remove it from the freezer and slice it into even cookie pieces. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie. Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F) and bake for about 20 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden.

Step 7: Cool and Store

Once the cookies are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. After they have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crisp. It’s best to store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture.