For those with a sweet tooth, Moroccan desserts offer an explosion of vibrant ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re a self-proclaimed food enthusiast or simply someone who loves exploring the culinary delights of different cultures, this list of traditional Moroccan treats is sure to capture your attention.
Our collection of Moroccan desserts boasts a diverse array of sweet treats, each with its own unique blend of ingredients and rich cultural heritage.
From the moment you take a bite, you’ll be hooked – and before long, you might just find yourself dreaming up a trip to Morocco specifically to indulge in these delectable delights.
For the most authentic Moroccan dessert experiences, look no further than classic recipes like Chebakia, Baghrir, and Sellou. But don’t stop there – also be sure to try Orange Cake, Pistachio Rose Rice Pudding, and Walnut Cookies for a truly unforgettable treat.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss out on the Baklava or Mint Ice Cream, both of which are guaranteed to become new favorites.
So why wait? Let’s dive in and discover the sweet side of Moroccan cuisine!
Sellou
Moroccan culture is rich in sweet treats, and Sellou is one of its most beloved confections. This delectable dessert combines the richness of almonds with the warm, aromatic flavors of sesame, anise, and cinnamon. Traditionally served at joyful celebrations such as childbirths and weddings, Sellou is a staple at special events where Moroccans gather to share in the happiness.
Prepared in bulk for these occasions, it’s not uncommon to see large quantities devoured by revelers eager to indulge in this sweet delight.
Orange Salad Dessert
Indulge in the simplicity and charm of a delectable dessert that showcases the vibrant flavors of citrus. This sweet treat requires just a few fresh ingredients: oranges, honey, mint, and cinnamon. The harmonious blend of these components will transport you to the sun-kissed hills of Morocco, where the art of cooking is infused with magic.
Let the freshness of oranges, the warmth of honey, the coolness of mint, and the depth of cinnamon come together in a delightful fusion that will leave you craving more.
Meskouta Orange Cake
What sets this cake apart is its exceptional moistness, which means you don’t need to worry about adding a layer of frosting to make it special. In fact, the natural flavors shine through so brightly that you might just find yourself preferring it without the extra sweetness. But what really makes this recipe stand out is its convenience – it only takes a few minutes to prepare and will remain fresh for several days, making it perfect for busy schedules or impromptu gatherings.
As an added bonus, the citrus flavors add a delightful twist that elevates the overall experience. And the best part? You can prepare it ahead of time and enjoy the fruits of your labor for many weeks to come.
Almond M’hencha
Indulge in the harmonious blend of almonds, cinnamon, citrus zest, and buttery goodness that defines this Moroccan dessert. The perfect union of flavors will leave you craving more. To elevate its appeal, consider garnishing with nuts and berries for a burst of added flavor and visual allure. It’s no surprise that Moroccans often pair almonds and cinnamon with salt and sugar in their culinary creations, as the combination is both familiar and comforting.
Pistachio, Rose, Rice Pudding
Indulge in a one-of-a-kind culinary experience with this vibrant fusion of flavors. This show-stopping dessert is sure to become a cherished family tradition, with its bold and colorful taste profile that will leave everyone wanting more. The harmonious blend of pistachio, rose water, pomegranate, and rice creates a truly unforgettable treat that’s sure to impress your guests. Once they take a bite, they’ll be clamoring for the recipe!
Honey & Almond Cigars
Indulge in the irresistible charm of Honey & Almond Cigars, a show-stopping treat that’s sure to delight both friends and family at any gathering. While they may require some time and elbow grease to craft, the payoff is well worth the investment. These sweet delights are an exceptional choice for special events, guaranteeing oohs and ahhs from your loved ones as they savor each bite.
Guava Almond Phyllo Cake
This iconic cake, also affectionately known as snake cake, owes its unique appearance and name to the clever manipulation of filo pastry into a serpentine shape. The combination of crunchy filo and creamy almond filling creates a delightful contrast of textures that adds depth to this sweet treat. A sprinkle of citrus on top not only enhances the aroma but also imbues the dish with a bright, zesty flavor.
As much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate, this cake is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who lays eyes (or takes a bite)
Walnut Cookies
In Morocco, these walnut cookies are affectionately referred to as ghreyba, and their popularity transcends borders. With preparation time clocking in at just 20 minutes, the rich flavors of walnuts and cinnamon make them an ideal treat for both casual gatherings like tea time and larger celebrations alike.
Coconut Cookies
Indulge in the delightful fusion of semolina, coconut, and powdered sugar on top – a true culinary delight for your taste buds. These delectable variations of ghreyba are perfect for teatime or breakfast, offering a distinct experience with each bite. As you explore these unique renditions, you’ll discover that each one has its own special charm to savor and appreciate.
Baghrir
The term ‘Baghrir’ literally translates to a pancake with a thousand holes – an apt description, considering the characteristic texture that emerges when these soft, fluffy treats are freshly made. As you take your first bite, the Baghrir’s tender interior begins to melt, releasing a sweet and indulgent flavor that is as distinctive as its one-of-a-kind appearance.
Chebakia
In Moroccan cuisine, Chebakia is a distinctive and unforgettable sweet dish that has earned its name from its unique lattice-like structure. The dough is skillfully folded into round spirals, creating a visually appealing pattern that sets it apart from other desserts. Once coated in honey and sesame seeds, the Chebakia is then fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior giving way to a sweet and indulgent interior.
One bite of these delectable treats is sure to leave a lasting impression on even the most discerning palate.
Baklava
Comprised of flaky puff pastry, this delectable dessert boasts an indulgent filling crafted from ground and roasted nuts like almonds and walnuts. The combination yields a rich tapestry of flavors that will leave you craving more. With its effortless preparation and swift cooking time, this treat is an ideal accompaniment to both dinner and lunch. Additionally, the recipe’s versatility allows for creative experimentation by substituting different nuts to create unique flavor profiles.
Moroccan Donuts
Indulge in the tender, moist delight of these deep-fried Moroccan donuts. Their soft texture is sure to tantalize your taste buds. For an added layer of flavor, try coating them with honey, jam, or chocolate – the possibilities are endless! With their irresistible aroma and appealing appearance, it’s little wonder they won’t last a day in your refrigerator.
Ghariba Cookies
A classic recipe for traditional Gharib cookies, free from elaborate ingredients, allows anyone to effortlessly whip up a batch at home. Characterized by a coarse texture and relatively dry consistency, some may not be enamored with their simplicity. Nevertheless, they pair delightfully with tea or coffee, making them an excellent accompaniment to your morning pick-me-up.
Cornes De Gazelle
Renowned for their regal status, these Moroccan treats are essentially cylindrical delights, bursting with delectable almond paste. A perfect indulgence for the senses, they’re just as suited to satisfy your dessert cravings as they are to complement a savory main course. The subtly sweet flavor profile allows them to seamlessly transition from post-meal delight to palate-pleasing treat.
Mint Ice Cream
When venturing to Morocco, one of the most striking aspects is the ubiquitous presence of mint in various forms – from tea and sweet treats to decadent desserts. This refreshing quality extends to culinary creations like Moroccan Mint Ice Cream, which boasts a revitalizing flavor that’s sure to leave you yearning for more. As a quintessential summer treat, this easy-to-whip-up dessert offers a perfect respite from the scorching heat.
Carrot & Juicy Orange Salad
While it may seem unconventional as a dessert option, this particular salad’s unique blend of flavors and textures can easily satisfy your sweet tooth. The combination of juicy freshness and zesty citrus notes creates a refreshing experience that’s hard to resist.
Apple Pie
Indulge in the simplicity and sweetness of this budget-friendly Apple Pie recipe, which cleverly combines apples, cinnamon, sugar, and phyllo pastry. The best part? Most ingredients can be found in your pantry, making it an accessible treat for all. The magic happens when tender apples are coated with a mixture of warm cinnamon and sweet sugar, then nestled between two layers of flaky phyllo pastry to create a delightful dessert that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Orange, Pistachio & Honey Cake
While traditional oven-baked cakes can’t be beat when it comes to texture and flavor, this slow cooker cake is a game-changer. The abundance of orange in Moroccan desserts inspired this unique recipe, which takes things up a notch with the addition of pistachio and honey. The result is a truly one-of-a-kind flavor profile that’s sure to impress. Of course, making these cakes does require some extra time and effort, but trust us when we say it’s well worth the wait.
Burnt Honey Ice Cream
This recipe originates from the renowned book Mourad, which boasts an impressive collection of over 100 innovative and traditional Moroccan recipes. The honey is caramelized to a deep brown hue, imbuing it with the unmistakable flavor profile of burnt marshmallows – a characteristic that lends its name to this indulgent ice cream creation.
While the ingredients may be familiar staples from your own kitchen, the end result is a sumptuous treat that will satiate even the most discerning sweet tooth. With a preparation time spanning nearly three hours, including resting time, you’ll be rewarded with a luxurious dessert fit for special occasions or simply a decadent indulgence.
Almond & Cinnamon Cookies
The distinctive aroma of almonds and cinnamon fills the air as you take a bite of these unique cookies. Distinguishing themselves from traditional ghoribas, this recipe offers a twist that’s both exciting and accessible. By substituting oil for butter, these vegan treats open up the possibility for anyone to indulge in their sweet and mild flavor.
The bottom line
Moroccan cuisine is renowned globally, with its rich flavors and aromas captivating people from diverse backgrounds. The country’s dessert traditions are particularly noteworthy, boasting an impressive array of sweet treats that can be savored worldwide. To give you a taste of this Moroccan delight, we’ve compiled a list of 21 delectable desserts that you can easily recreate at home or indulge in during your travels to Morocco.
This selection offers a glimpse into the country’s sweet tooth culture and provides an opportunity to experience the authentic flavors and hospitality of local bakeries.
