Algerian Hlawat Tabâa

Hlawat Tabâa is a traditional Algerian biscuit, typically enjoyed during, tea or coffee time, as well as on festive occasions like Eid or weddings. The name “Hlawat Tabâa” roughly translates to “cookie cutter cookies” in reference to the decorative shape (round, square or half-moon).

These biscuits are known for their fragrant aroma, which comes from ingredients like orange blossom water, vanilla, and citrus zest (lemon or orange). They are soft and melt-in-your-mouth treats, lightly sweet and often dusted with sugar on the top.

The simplicity of the recipe and the use of aromatic ingredients make Hlawat Tabâa a beloved part of Algerian home-baking, connecting families to cultural traditions.

Ingredients:

-4 eggs

-200g of caster sugar

-Zest of 2 lemons

-200ml of sunflower oil

-600g of sifted flour

-7g of baking powder

-1 egg yolk

Method:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, and lemon zest vigorously until the mixture becomes pale, almost white, and has doubled in size.
3. Slowly pour in the sunflower oil while continuing to whisk. Make sure the oil is fully incorporated into the mixture.
4. Gradually sift in the flour and baking powder. Continue whisking until the mixture comes together and becomes sticky, forming a dough.
5. Flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it. Using a rolling pin, flatten the dough until it reaches a thickness of around 2 centimeters.
6. Use a cookie cutter of your choice to cut out shapes from the dough.
7. Set your oven to 180°C (356°F)
8. Place the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly.
9. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk.
10. Brush the top surface of each cookie with the beaten egg yolk to achieve a golden crust.
11. Lightly sprinkle caster sugar over the brushed surfaces for added sweetness and a crisp finish.
12. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies are golden brown.
13. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

Bonne dégustation !