Moroccan Honey and Almond Cigars Recipe

Introduction

Moroccan Honey and Almond Cigars are delicate, crispy pastries filled with a sweet and spiced almond mixture. They make a perfect treat for any occasion, combining the crunch of toasted nuts with the floral sweetness of honey for a truly irresistible flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup almonds (blanched or substitute with walnuts/pistachios)
• ½ cup honey (or agave syrup for vegan option)
• 1 package phyllo dough (gluten-free option available)
• ½ cup butter (melted, or coconut oil for dairy-free)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (or cardamom for a twist)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Toast the almonds on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned. Allow them to cool completely, then chop finely.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine the chopped almonds with honey and cinnamon, mixing until well incorporated to create the filling.
3. Step 3: Thaw the phyllo dough in the refrigerator overnight. When ready, carefully unroll the sheets and keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.
4. Step 4: Brush a phyllo sheet lightly with melted butter, then layer another sheet on top and brush again. Place about a tablespoon of almond filling near one end of the stacked sheets.
5. Step 5: Fold the sides over the filling and roll the phyllo tightly into a cigar shape. Seal the edge by brushing it with butter.
6. Step 6: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the assembled cigars on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with remaining melted butter for a golden finish.
7. Step 7: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cigars are crisp and golden brown.
8. Step 8: While the cigars bake, gently warm the remaining honey until liquid. After baking, brush the warm honey generously over the cigars for a glossy, sweet glaze.
9. Step 9: Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tips & Variations

• For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil and opt for agave syrup instead of honey for strict vegan needs.
• Try swapping cinnamon with ground cardamom for an aromatic twist that adds depth to the filling.
• Use walnuts or pistachios in place of almonds to change up the flavor and texture.
• Ensure phyllo dough stays covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying and cracking.

Storage

Store the honey and almond cigars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their crispiness. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, but note they may lose some crunch. Reheat briefly in a warm oven before serving to refresh their texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these cigars ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the cigars and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Bake fresh when ready to serve for best texture and flavor.

Is there a gluten-free option for the phyllo dough?

Gluten-free phyllo dough is available at specialty stores or online, and can be used as a direct substitute in this recipe to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

Moroccan Honey and Almond Cigars Recipe

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These Moroccan Honey and Almond Cigars are a delightful pastry featuring a crunchy almond and honey filling wrapped in buttery phyllo dough. Crisped to golden perfection and finished with a warm honey glaze, this traditional treat offers a sweet and aromatic experience with hints of cinnamon or cardamom. Perfect as a dessert or festive snack, with options for gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan adaptations.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12–15 cigars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Moroccan
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Almond Filling

• 1 cup Almonds (blanched or substitute with walnuts/pistachios)
• ½ cup Honey (or agave syrup for vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (or cardamom for a twist)

Phyllo Dough Assembly

• 1 package Phyllo dough (gluten-free option available)
• ½ cup Butter (melted, or coconut oil for dairy-free)

Finishing

• Powdered Sugar (for dusting, optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Almond Filling: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Toast the almonds on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Let them cool completely, then chop finely. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped almonds with honey and cinnamon, mixing thoroughly to create the filling.
2. Prepare the Phyllo Dough: Thaw the phyllo dough in the refrigerator overnight for best results. Once thawed, carefully unroll the dough and keep the sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.
3. Assemble the Cigars: Brush one phyllo sheet evenly with melted butter, then stack another sheet on top and brush again. Place a tablespoon of the almond filling near one edge of the layered sheets. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly to form cigar shapes. Seal the edges with melted butter to keep them closed.
4. Bake the Cigars: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the assembled cigars on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter to encourage browning. Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the cigars turn golden brown and crisp.
5. Finish with Honey Glaze: Gently heat the remaining honey until it becomes fluid but not boiling. Brush the warm honey generously over the hot cigars immediately after taking them out of the oven. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.

Notes

• For a vegan version, substitute honey with agave syrup and butter with coconut oil.
• You can use walnuts or pistachios instead of almonds depending on preference or allergies.
• Ensure phyllo dough is kept covered to avoid drying, which can cause tearing during assembly.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container; they are best enjoyed within 2 days to maintain crispness.
• For a spicier twist, substitute cinnamon with ground cardamom or add a pinch of ground cloves.

Keywords: Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars, Phyllo Pastry, Honey Pastry, Almond Dessert, Cinnamon Sweets, Moroccan Dessert, Vegetarian Pastry