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Arabian Gulf Shortbread Cookies Ghiraybah Recipe

Indulge in the delicate crunch of authentic Arabian Gulf Ghiraybeh cookies! These melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies are perfect for gifting, tea time, or impressing guests with their unique Middle Eastern flavor. Inspired by Tess Mallos's *Complete Middle East Cookbook*, this recipe ensures perfectly textured cookies every time. The subtle sweetness and optional almond topping create an irresistible treat that pairs wonderfully with Arabic coffee or tea.

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 55 mins
Calories 92.3 kcal
Protein 1g
Rating 5.0 (4 Reviews)
Arabian Gulf Shortbread Cookies Ghiraybah 29

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Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Arabian Gulf Shortbread Cookies Ghiraybah

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How to Make Arabian Gulf Shortbread Cookies Ghiraybah

  1. Sift 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – this crucial step ensures the perfect texture.
  2. If necessary, chill 1 cup samneh (or unsalted butter) in the refrigerator until firm.
  3. Place the chilled samneh in a mixing bowl and beat until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
  4. Gradually add 1 cup powdered sugar, beating until the mixture is very creamy and light.
  5. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  6. Gently fold in the sifted flour until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  7. Knead the dough lightly until it forms a smooth ball.
  8. If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to prevent spreading during baking.
  9. Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
  10. Gently flatten each ball slightly with your hand or a fork.
  11. Lightly flour your hands if the dough is sticky.
  12. Top half or all of the cookies with a slivered almond.
  13. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are very lightly golden.
  14. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheets before handling.
  15. Dust the cookies without almonds with powdered sugar.
  16. Once cooled, carefully remove the cookies from the baking sheets.
  17. Handle these delicate biscuits with care. They're best enjoyed fresh!
  18. Enjoy your homemade Arabian Gulf Ghiraybeh cookies with Arabic coffee or tea!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

13g

Fat

16g

Carbs

3g

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60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Occasion For Large Groups 5 Ingredients Or Less Hand Formed Cookies Saudi Arabian Desserts Middle Eastern Oven Easy Dinner Party Finger Food Holiday Event Vegetarian Cookies And Brownies Nuts Dietary Gifts Ramadan Egg Free Free Of Something Taste Mood Sweet Equipment Number Of Servings Presentation Baking