M'hanncha aux Amandes

M'hanncha aux Amandes is a delightful Moroccan dessert that resembles a snake, showcasing layers of flaky pastry filled with a sweet almond mixture. This visually stunning treat is often flavored with orange blossom water, making it a fragrant and festive addition to any dessert table.

Ingredients

• Almonds - 100g
• Sugar - 50g
• Cinnamon - 1 tsp
• Orange blossom water - 1 tbsp
• Butter (melted) - 50g
• Filo pastry - 4 sheets
• Powdered sugar (for dusting) - 1 tbsp

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a food processor, blend the almonds until finely ground. Add the sugar, cinnamon, and orange blossom water, and pulse until well combined.
3. Lay one sheet of filo pastry on a clean surface and brush lightly with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and brush again with butter.
4. Spoon a line of the almond mixture along one edge of the pastry, then roll the pastry tightly around the filling to form a log.
5. Shape the log into a spiral, tucking the end underneath to secure it. Repeat the process with the remaining filo sheets and filling.
6. Place the spiraled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with any remaining melted butter.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 6 g
• Carbs: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 5 mg
• Cholesterol: 15 mg
• Total Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Water: 0.1 L

Health Benefits

• Almonds are rich in healthy fats and provide a good source of vitamin E.
• The use of orange blossom water can have calming effects and may aid digestion.

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