Arab-inspired Chocolate Chip Cookie

Ingredients

In this Arab-inspired version of the Chocolate Chip Cookie, we infuse the dough with traditional Middle Eastern spices such as cardamom and cinnamon. We also replace the traditional chocolate chips with chopped dates and pistachios, adding a touch of sweetness and crunch. These modifications give the cookies a distinct Middle Eastern flair while still maintaining the beloved texture and taste of the original. We alse have the original recipe for Chocolate Chip Cookie, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (220g) brown sugar 1 cup (220g) brown sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (150g) chopped dates 1 cup (150g) chopped dates
• 1 cup (120g) chopped pistachios 1 cup (120g) chopped pistachios

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. 6.
   Fold in the chopped dates and pistachios, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. 7.
   Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. 8.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. 9.
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dates — Make sure to use soft and moist dates for the best texture. If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for a few minutes before chopping.
• Pistachios — Toast the pistachios lightly before chopping to enhance their flavor and crunchiness.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of ground cardamom and cinnamon on top of each cookie before baking.
• If you prefer a softer texture, slightly underbake the cookies and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet.
• Experiment with different types of nuts or dried fruits to customize the cookies to your liking.

Serving advice

Serve these Arab-inspired Chocolate Chip Cookies with a cup of aromatic Arabic coffee or a refreshing glass of mint tea for a truly Middle Eastern experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter and garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for an elegant touch.