Iraqi-inspired Date-filled Pastries

Ingredients

While the original Danish pastry is typically filled with various fruit or cream fillings, this Iraqi-inspired version focuses on the traditional Iraqi ingredient of dates. The spices and flavor profiles are also adapted to suit the Iraqi cuisine, incorporating warm spices such as cinnamon and cardamom for a distinct Middle Eastern taste. We alse have the original recipe for Danish Pastry, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
• 1 cup (200g) pitted dates, finely chopped 1 cup (200g) pitted dates, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts (optional) 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts (optional)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 27g, 12g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold cubed butter and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a saucepan, combine the chopped dates, water, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the dates soften, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into squares or rectangles of desired size.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the date filling onto each piece of dough. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts if desired. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
7. 7.
   Transfer the pastries to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the pastries cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dates — Make sure to finely chop the dates to ensure a smooth filling.
• Walnuts — If you prefer a nutty flavor and added crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts over the date filling before sealing the pastries.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of orange blossom water or rose water to the date filling.
• If you prefer a sweeter pastry, sprinkle a little extra sugar on top of the pastries before baking.
• Serve the pastries warm for a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Serving advice

Serve these Iraqi-inspired date-filled pastries as a delicious breakfast or brunch treat. They are best enjoyed warm with a cup of tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the pastries on a platter and dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and water over the pastries for a glossy finish.