Maltese Date Pastries

Ingredients

• 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp salt
• 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 100ml (1/2 cup) water 100ml (1/2 cup) water
• 250g (1 1/4 cups) pitted dates 250g (1 1/4 cups) pitted dates
• 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 kJ
• Fat: 8g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 60g (Sugar: 30g)
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and rub them into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Knead the dough gently for a few minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the pitted dates, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mash the mixture together until it forms a sticky paste.
4. 4.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the date filling evenly over the dough.
5. 5.
   Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from one of the longer sides. Press the edges to seal.
6. 6.
   Using a sharp knife, cut the log into small rectangular pieces, about 2 inches long.
7. 7.
   In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F). Fry the pastries in batches until golden brown, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
8. 8.
   Serve the Maltese Date Pastries warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dates — Ensure the dates are pitted before mashing them with the sugar and spices to create a smooth paste.
• Vegetable oil — Use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or sunflower oil, for frying the pastries. Maintain the oil temperature to achieve a crispy texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle the warm pastries with honey or sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving.
• Serve the Maltese Date Pastries with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom to the date filling mixture.
• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the pastries to prevent them from becoming greasy. Test the temperature by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle and turn golden brown within a few seconds.
• These pastries are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving to restore their crispiness.

Serving advice

Serve the Maltese Date Pastries as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack. They are best enjoyed warm, allowing the aroma of the spices to enhance the experience. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect treat.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden Maltese Date Pastries on a serving platter, allowing their beautiful color and shape to shine. Dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle them with honey for an elegant touch. Consider garnishing the platter with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added visual appeal.