Oman today_ Sesame cookies are a delectable and well-loved treat made with a combination of sugar, wheat flour, oil, and flavorings such as cardamom and vanilla. This simple yet delightful dessert can be customized by adding ingredients like coconut, raisins, or dates to suit your taste. It makes for a perfect snack or an enjoyable afternoon tea accompaniment. The cookies are coated with sesame seeds, which not only enhance their appearance but also boost their nutritional value.
To prepare these cookies, start by mixing two large eggs with one cup of powdered sugar and a pinch of vanilla in a bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture for five minutes until it becomes creamy and pale. Gradually add three-fourths of a cup of vegetable oil while gently mixing to ensure a smooth consistency. In a separate bowl, combine one tablespoon of baking powder with three tablespoons of yogurt, stirring until bubbles form on the surface. Add this mixture to the egg batter and mix on a low speed. Then, incorporate half a tablespoon of ground cardamom into the batter.
Next, sift three cups of white flour three times to ensure it is soft and smooth. Add the flour and a pinch of salt to the batter, mixing on low speed until the dough thickens and holds its shape. Place the dough in a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rest in the freezer for 30 minutes or in the refrigerator for three hours.
Once the dough is ready, grease your hands with a small amount of vegetable oil, take portions of the dough, and roll them into balls of your desired size. Coat each ball with sesame seeds and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring there is enough space between them for expansion.
Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F) and bake the cookies for about 20 minutes until they puff up and turn golden brown. Remove the tray from the oven and allow the cookies to cool before lifting them off the parchment paper. To maintain freshness, store the cookies in an airtight container.
You can shape these cookies as round, oval, or even donut-like with a hollow center, depending on your preference. Not only do they taste amazing, but their attractive appearance also adds a touch of charm to any occasion.