Introduction
Crunchy, nutty, and lightly perfumed with orange blossom water, Fakkas with Almonds is Morocco’s delicious answer to Italian biscotti. These twice-baked cookies are a beloved staple in Moroccan homes, often served with tea or coffee and shared during celebrations.
While traditional fakkas can include raisins, anise, or sesame seeds, this version highlights toasted almonds and orange blossom water, delivering a unique flavor that blends North African and Mediterranean influences.
In this article, we’ll guide you step by step to make these crisp delights at home — plus tips, variations, and cultural insights that will help your Moroccan cookie tray shine.
What Is Fakkas?
Fakkas (sometimes spelled fekkas or fekkas) is a type of Moroccan cookie that’s similar in concept to biscotti: it’s baked twice to achieve a crisp, dry texture that stores well and pairs wonderfully with tea or milk.
Traditionally:
- It’s cut into thin slices after the first bake.
- Contains nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.
- May be flavored with anise, cinnamon, or orange blossom.
The name fakkas comes from the Arabic verb “fakkasa,” meaning “to crack” — an appropriate name for a cookie that delivers a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients for Fakkas with Almonds and Orange Blossom
This recipe yields approximately 40–50 slices.
Dry Ingredients:
- 500 g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 150 g (¾ cup) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- A pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 egg yolk (reserve the white for brushing)
- 100 ml (⅓ cup + 1 tbsp) vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp orange blossom water
- Zest of 1 orange (optional but highly recommended)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Add-ins:
- 150 g (1 cup) whole toasted almonds (with or without skin)
Step-by-Step Instructions
🥣 Step 1: Toast the Almonds
- Spread the almonds on a baking tray.
- Toast in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, until lightly golden and fragrant.
- Let them cool completely.
🍪 Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs, egg yolk, oil, vanilla extract, orange blossom water, and orange zest.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients.
- Add the toasted almonds and mix well until a firm dough forms.
- Divide the dough into 2–3 equal portions and shape each into a log (about 4 cm wide).
🧑🍳 Step 3: First Bake
- Place the logs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush with reserved egg white for a glossy finish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes, or until lightly golden and set.
- Let the logs cool completely (about 1 hour or more) before slicing.
🔪 Step 4: Slice and Bake Again
- Using a sharp serrated knife, slice each log diagonally into thin cookies (about 1 cm thick).
- Arrange slices flat on the baking tray.
- Return to the oven and bake at 150°C (300°F) for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway until both sides are golden and crisp.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with Moroccan mint tea, espresso, or café au lait.
- Serve alongside other Moroccan cookies like kaab el ghazal and ghriba.
- Pack in small bags as gifts during Eid, weddings, or holidays.
Storage Tips
- Store cooled fakkas in an airtight container at room temperature.
- They will stay crisp for up to 3 weeks.
- Can be frozen (baked) for up to 2 months — just thaw and serve.
Flavor Variations
🍇 Fakkas with Raisins & Anise
Add ½ cup raisins and 1 tsp ground anise for a traditional twist.
🍫 Chocolate Almond Fakkas
Fold in ½ cup dark chocolate chips for a modern flavor.
🌿 Sesame & Almond Fakkas
Add 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and nuttiness.
Healthier Substitutions
- Replace white sugar with coconut sugar or brown sugar.
- Use whole wheat flour for a fiber-rich version.
- Swap vegetable oil for olive oil for a Mediterranean touch.
Why You’ll Love Fakkas
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Crunchy texture | Perfect for dipping |
| Long shelf life | Ideal for storage or gifting |
| Customizable | Endless flavor options |
| Simple ingredients | Pantry-friendly and affordable |
| Aromatic | Unique scent from orange blossom water |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make fakkas gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend, but test texture and adjust moisture as needed.
Can I skip the orange blossom water?
Yes, but you’ll lose the signature Moroccan aroma. Try substituting with orange zest or rosewater.
How do I prevent the dough from crumbling?
Make sure to measure flour accurately and add a bit more oil or orange blossom water if the dough is too dry.
Fakkas in Moroccan Culture
Fakkas is more than a cookie in Morocco — it’s part of the rhythm of hospitality. Whether dipped into morning tea or served on trays during Eid, fakkas is a symbol of tradition, family, and generosity.
Many Moroccan households bake large batches before:
- Eid al-Fitr
- Weddings
- Religious ceremonies
- Family gatherings
It’s a cookie that brings people together — one crisp bite at a time.
Conclusion
With its golden crunch, nutty richness, and floral aroma, Fakkas with Almonds and Orange Blossom is a Moroccan treat worth baking. It’s simple, elegant, and endlessly satisfying — perfect for anyone who loves biscotti with a cultural twist.
So heat up your oven, grab your almonds, and bring a little Moroccan sunshine to your cookie jar.
✅ Meta Description (SEO)
Discover how to make Moroccan fakkas with almonds and orange blossom water. A crunchy biscotti-style cookie perfect with tea or coffee. Easy recipe + storage tips.
About The Author
