Kaab el Ghazal (Gazelle Horns) – Crescent-shaped almond-filled pastries.

Kaab el Ghazal, or “gazelle horns,” is a traditional Moroccan pastry with a delicate crescent shape. These tender pastries are filled with fragrant almond paste, flavored with orange blossom water, and baked to perfection. They’re often served at celebrations, weddings, and with mint tea.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (60ml) orange blossom water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water (as needed)

For the Filling:

• 2 cups (250g) blanched almonds
• 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup (60ml) orange blossom water
• Zest of 1 orange (optional)

For Garnish:

• Powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Almond Filling

1. Grind the blanched almonds and sugar in a food processor until you get a fine, paste-like consistency.
2. Add the ground cinnamon, orange blossom water, and orange zest (if using). Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the almond paste into small cylinders about 2-3 inches long and set aside.

2. Make the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add the orange blossom water and regular water while kneading to form a soft, smooth dough.
3. Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

3. Shape the Pastries

1. Roll out the dough thinly on a floured surface (as thin as possible without tearing).
2. Cut the dough into small rectangles large enough to wrap around the almond paste cylinders.
3. Place a cylinder of almond filling at the edge of each rectangle. Roll the dough around the filling, pressing to seal the edges.
4. Shape each pastry into a crescent by gently curving the ends.

4. Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Place the shaped pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender.

5. Garnish and Serve

1. Allow the pastries to cool completely.
2. For a classic touch, dust them with powdered sugar, or serve them plain to highlight their natural flavors.

Tips and Variations

• Authentic Flavor: Use freshly ground almonds for the best taste and texture.
• Optional Glaze: Lightly brush the pastries with orange blossom water before baking for extra aroma.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week or freeze for longer shelf life.

Kaab el Ghazal is a delicate, elegant treat that perfectly balances the richness of almonds with the subtle sweetness of orange blossom water. Serve these crescent-shaped delights with Moroccan mint tea for an authentic experience!