Batheeth (Emirati Date Crumble)
Batheeth is a traditional Emirati sweet made from toasted flour, dates, and warming spices like cardamom and ginger. This no-bake dessert offers a delightful crumbly texture and a rich, natural sweetness, perfect with Arabic coffee.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Whole wheat flour
- 0.5 cup Butter(unsalted, melted)
- 1 cup Date paste(pitted dates blended into a paste)
- 1 tsp Cardamom powder
- 0.5 tsp Ginger powder
- 0.25 tsp Cinnamon powder(optional)
- 0.25 cup Chopped almonds or pistachios(for garnish (optional))
- 2 tbsp Sesame seeds(for rolling into balls (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a dry, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat, toast the whole wheat flour, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden brown and becomes aromatic. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to burn the flour; low to medium heat is key. - 2
Remove the toasted flour from the heat and transfer it to a mixing bowl. Let it cool slightly.
- 3
Add the melted butter, date paste, cardamom powder, ginger powder, and cinnamon powder (if using) to the toasted flour.
- 4
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined and a crumble-like texture forms. You can use your hands to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
💡 Tip: The mixture should hold together when pressed. - 5
If you prefer to make date balls, take small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms. You can then roll the balls in sesame seeds or chopped nuts.
- 6
Serve the Batheeth in a bowl as a crumble, sprinkled with chopped nuts if desired. It can also be molded into small shapes or balls.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using soft, good quality dates for the paste will yield the best results.
- ✓Adjust the spices to your preference. Some traditional recipes also include a hint of rose water.
- ✓Batheeth travels well and can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several days.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of ghee along with the butter for a richer flavor.
- Incorporate finely chopped nuts directly into the mixture for added texture.