Kleicha

Kleicha
Iraq
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Ingredients

  • For the Dough:
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • For the Filling:
  • 1 cup dates (pitted and chopped)
  • 1/2 cup walnuts (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • For the Topping:
  • 1 egg (beaten)
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, and ground cardamom.

Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Pour in the yeast mixture and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. You can add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dates, walnuts, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix well.

Assemble the Kleicha

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small balls (about the size of a walnut).

Roll each ball into a small circle on a floured surface.

Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each circle.

Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal. You can shape them into round or oval shapes.

Place the filled dough pieces onto the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Kleicha

Brush the tops of the Kleicha with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the Kleicha are golden brown.

Serve

Allow the Kleicha to cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your meal!