Algerian Mkhabez is a special treat with a stunning appearance and taste. The classy recipe boasts of its sophisticated look that gets you into eating moods. It is believed that this dessert is unique in that it is naturally “attractive” and has its ways of enticing even those folks who are overly conscious about sweet. Set your eyes on Mkhabez, no matter who you are, and you’ll be tempted to have a bite!

Why Algerian Mkhabez is Unique

Usually, the dessert is prepared with almond flour, sugar, lemon zest, eggs, and butter. Some variations may use vanilla extract to give it a twist. It is considered unique among most treat because you can be as antically expressive as you please.

If you are an aspiring food artist, or simply experimenting, then Algerian Mkhabez is your tool. Welcome to the world of colors, shapes, imagination, creativity, and sugar fun!

Algerian Mkhabez Icing Power

Mkhabez power in its dressing appeal which is created by icing. Its icing can be prepared with powdered sugar, milk, orange blossom water, and lemon juice. Some people use metallic food color or edible dust to get all kinds of wow- effect in its decoration.

Regardless of any creative choice you make, however, you will have to refrigerate the dough for two hours and another additional hour for the icing to dry.

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History of Algerian Mkhabez

Algerian Mkhabez is a blend of local and French influence. The recipe was first prepared in Algiers city and featured a triangular shape with almond dragee decoration and an aromatic French-inspired icing glaze. More recipe books were released featuring the recipe but with more advanced shapes.

However, despite the shape, Mkhabez still remains one of the most popularly enjoyed desserts in Algeria during celebrations. It’s fragrant icing, lemon zest, and almond taste add some flare and are satisfying to the soul.

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Below is a detailed Algerian Mkhabez recipe. Let’s get stuck in!

Recipe

4 cups of almond flour (finely ground)

1 cup unsalted butter

1tsp vanilla extract

1 cup granulate sugar

2 lemons zests

1 ½ cups of milk

3 large eggs

Icing

½ cup olive or canola oil

½ cup milk

2 tsp lemon juice

½ cup orange blossom water

½ cup powdered sugar

Food coloring (your preferred color)

Garnish

Decorative cookie flower bouquet

Guide

1. In an electric or hand mixer, add almond flour, melted butter, lemon zest, and sugar and mix thoroughly at low speeds.
2. Pour your milk and vanilla extract and increase the speed. Mix for five minutes and beat your eggs one at a time while combining at every stage.
3. Put the dough to a bowl or basin. Cover with a cling film and refrigerate for about two hours.
4. Flour the working surface and roll your dough about 1” thick or less.
5. Place parchment paper on a baking sheet.
6. With a cookie cutter, shape your cookies to desired shapes, and place them on a baking sheet.
7. Preheat your oven up to 180⁰ C and bake for 15 to 20 minutes and let it cool completely.

Preparing Your Icing

• Pour your milk, orange blossom water, and cooking oil into a bowl. Use a cooking stick to mix thoroughly.
• Add the powdered sugar and continue stirring until thoroughly mixed.
• Add the lemon zest and stir for about two minutes until evenly mixed.
• Pour your food coloring powder and continue stirring for one minute.
• Put some of the icing on a piping bag and put it aside.
• Submerge each cookie in the icing, then place it on a cooling rack.
• Leave the cookies to dry completely. Remove any excess icing on the cookie edges and bottom with a knife.
• Decorate the cookies with the icing on the piping bag as desired—Dust the top with edible dust or metallic food coloring.
• Place a decorative cookie flower and cut part of the stem. Enjoy

Wrapping Up

Algeria Mkhabez is one of the recipes you can’t afford to miss out on your party menu. Its sophisticated shape and fragrant icing get your visitors in the mood of eating. Though the preparation may require more time, it’s worth it. It dessert gives your taste buds an incredible experience.