Authentic Syrian maamoul and cake recipe

Here is a traditional recipe for Syrian maamoul and kahk: Ingredients for the dough: - 2 cups semolina - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1/2 cup powdered sugar - 1/4 cup milk - 1 tsp vanilla extract - 1/4 tsp salt Ingredients for the filling: - 1 cup pitted dates or date paste - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon - 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg - 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional) Ingredients for dusting: - Powdered sugar Instructions: 1. Prepare the filling by mixing the dates or date paste with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves if using. Blend until you get a smooth paste. Set aside. 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine semolina, all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix well. 3. Gradually pour in the melted butter while mixing with your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. 4. Add vanilla extract and milk to the mixture, kneading until you get a smooth dough. Cover the dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes. 5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 6. Take a small portion of the dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a small amount of the date filling in the center and fold the dough around the filling, shaping it into a ball. You can also use maamoul molds for a decorative shape. 7. Arrange the maamoul on the baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. 8. Remove the maamoul from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. 9. Once cooled, dust the maamoul with powdered sugar before serving. For kahk, you can follow the same recipe for the dough but use a different filling such as a mixture of ground nuts (like almonds or walnuts), sugar, and cinnamon. Shape the kahk into balls or use a mold, and bake until golden brown. Dust with powdered sugar after baking. Enjoy your delicious Syrian maamoul and kahk!