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Walking through the vibrant markets of Marrakech, I was captivated by the alluring scent of baked goods wafting through the air—a gentle kiss of honey and floral notes that felt like an invitation. Fast forward to today, and I’m thrilled to recreate that culinary magic at home with these Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars. This enchanting pastry dessert is not just a feast for the senses; it boasts a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whipping up these delightful cigars is a breeze, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a well-deserved indulgence. Are you ready to embark on this delicious adventure?

Why are Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars irresistible?
Meltingly Delicious: The combination of rich almond filling and a sweet honey glaze creates a taste sensation that will leave you craving more.
Fragrant Floral Notes: The addition of orange blossom water adds an aromatic touch, enhancing the overall experience and making each bite a delight for your senses.
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Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering, a brunch with friends, or simply indulging at home, these treats elevate any moment.
Quick and Simple: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have delicious Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars ready in no time. Why not pair them with a refreshing cup of mint tea for a truly authentic experience?
Crowd-Pleaser: Your guests will be talking about these pastries long after the last bite—just like our favorite Baked Hot Honey or Raspberry Filled Almonds that never fail to impress!
Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars Ingredients
For the Pastry Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure; a mix with cake flour yields a tender crumb.
• Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, softened) – Adds moisture and richness—ensure it’s softened, not melted.
• Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup) – Provides sweetness to the dough; can be swapped with coconut sugar for a lighter option.
• Egg (1 large) – Binds ingredients and enriches flavor; use a room-temperature egg for smooth blending.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances flavor balance in the dough, essential for countering sweetness.
• Baking Powder (1/4 teaspoon) – Helps the dough rise slightly; ensure freshness for optimal results.
For the Almond Filling
• Blanched Almond Flour (1.5 cups) – Key for the filling; use blanched to avoid graininess—grind your own if needed.
• Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup) – Sweetens and smoothens the filling to perfection; can substitute finely ground regular sugar in a pinch.
• Egg White (1 large) – Binds the almond filling; crucial for achieving the right texture.
• Orange Blossom Water (1 teaspoon) – Infuses a fragrant floral note; can be replaced with rose water if necessary.
• Ground Cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon) – Adds warmth to flavor, can be substituted with nutmeg if desired.
For the Honey Glaze
• Honey (1 cup) – The star of the glaze, providing sweetness and stickiness; choose high-quality floral honey for best flavor.
• Water (1/4 cup) – Thins the honey for the glaze; adjust for desired syrup consistency.
• Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – Balances sweetness with a pop of acidity; lime juice can be used as an alternative.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re just a few steps away from creating delightful Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars that are bound to impress!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As it warms up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. This preparation is crucial for achieving the perfect golden edges on your Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder. This will create a light and fluffy base for your dough. Set the bowl aside while you move on to the buttery mixture, ensuring that your dry ingredients are well blended.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and pale, about 3–5 minutes. Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ensuring the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creamy base will serve as the foundation for your dough.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually blend the dry flour mixture into the creamed butter mixture until just combined, forming a soft dough. If the dough feels too crumbly, add a splash of cold water, one tablespoon at a time, to help bring it together. It’s important not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are acceptable.
Step 5: Make the Almond Filling
For the filling, combine 1.5 cups of blanched almond flour, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 large egg white in a separate bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of orange blossom water and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix until you achieve a sticky paste that will encase the sweet almonds perfectly in your Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick. Spread the prepared almond filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. This step ensures that each cigar will be filled generously, creating a delightful flavor explosion in every bite.
Step 7: Shape the Cigars
Carefully roll the dough from one long edge to the other, ensuring the filling is tightly enclosed within. Seal the edges by pinching them together, which prevents the filling from leaking during baking. Once shaped, cut the roll into 2-inch pieces. Place each piece seam side down on your lined baking sheets.
Step 8: Bake the Cigars
Transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should turn a lovely golden color and feel firm to the touch when finished. This baking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully as the Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars rise and take shape.
Step 9: Prepare the Honey Glaze
While the cigars are baking, prepare the glaze by combining 1 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice in a small saucepan. Over low heat, stir the mixture until it is warm and well blended. This glaze will add a fragrant sweetness that perfectly complements the nutty filling.
Step 10: Glaze the Baked Cigars
Once baked, remove the Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars from the oven and immediately dip each warm cigar into the prepared honey syrup, allowing them to soak briefly. Place them on a wire rack to drain excess syrup, which will create a beautiful, shiny glaze that enhances their irresistible sweetness.

Storage Tips for Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars
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Room Temperature: Store the Moroccan honey almond cigars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful texture.
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Refrigerator: If you need extra storage time, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the cigars in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.
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Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat from frozen in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. This will restore their delightful crispness.
What to Serve with Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars
Pairing a delightful selection with your freshly-baked pastries will elevate your dining experience and transport your taste buds to the heart of Morocco.
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Mint Tea: The classic choice, this fragrant beverage complements the floral notes of the cigars beautifully, making each bite a refreshing experience.
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Sweet Yogurt Dip: A creamy yogurt infused with honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon offers a luscious contrast to the nutty crunch of the cigars.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Juicy bites of seasonal fruits add a refreshing lightness to the meal while offering a vibrant, colorful presentation to impress your guests.
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Saffron Rice Pudding: Creamy and subtly sweet, this luxurious dessert pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars, creating a harmonious fusion.
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Almond Milk Latte: This warm, nutty drink echoes the almond filling, enhancing the treat’s flavors while providing a cozy atmosphere—ideal for a brunch gathering.
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Baklava: For an indulgent spread, serve alongside this classic pastry featuring layers of phyllo and nuts, creating a delightful dessert ensemble that your guests will adore.
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Dark Chocolate Squares: A few squares of dark chocolate provide a rich, slightly bitter counterpoint to the sweetness of the cigars, creating a balanced end to your meal.
Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars Variations & Substitutions
Discover how you can make these Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars uniquely yours with a few simple changes and enhancements!
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Nutty Swap: Substitute almonds with finely ground pistachios for a vibrant flavor twist and a delightful green hue.
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Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cardamom to the almond filling for extra warmth and a fragrant boost that transports you to Moroccan markets.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For a modern twist, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled cigars instead of honey glaze—perfect for chocolate lovers!
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Lighter Option: Use coconut or maple sugar in place of granulated sugar for a richer depth and a hint of caramel flavor in your dough.
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Flavorful Soak: Infuse your honey glaze with a splash of vanilla extract or a few drops of almond extract for added complexity.
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Gluten-Free: Try using almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour to make a gluten-free version of these wonderful pastries.
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Zesty Addition: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest into the almond filling for a bright burst of citrus that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of chili powder into your honey glaze for a subtle kick, balancing the sweetness with some heat.
Each of these adaptations allows you to explore delightful new flavors while staying close to that authentic Moroccan charm! Whether savoring these cigars yourself or serving them to impress guests, the culinary world awaits your creative touch. Enjoy them with a cup of mint tea alongside your favorite Baked Hot Honey or complement with some Raspberry Filled Almonds for a treat that truly shines.
Make Ahead Options
These Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough and almond filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the dough, apply the filling, shape your cigars, and then bake them fresh. For the best quality, avoid glazing until just before serving to keep that irresistible crispness intact. You’ll have delightful, homemade pastries with minimal effort, perfect for impressing family or guests!
Expert Tips for Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars
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Butter Temperature: Make sure your unsalted butter is perfectly softened, not melted. This is crucial for a light and airy dough!
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Mixing Technique: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough pastries, so accept a few flour streaks.
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Filling Consistency: Use blanched almond flour for the filling to maintain a smooth texture. Regular almond meal can make the filling grainy.
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Baking Attention: Keep an eye on the baking time. Aim for a golden hue, and remove the cigars promptly to prevent them from browning too much.
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Glaze Soaking: Dip the warm cigars into the honey glaze right after baking. Allow them to soak briefly for maximum sweetness and shine without being overly sticky!
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Serving Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, serve your Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars fresh, ideally with a cup of mint tea—pure bliss!

Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars Recipe FAQs
What type of almonds should I use for the filling?
I recommend using blanched almond flour for the filling to avoid any grittiness. You can easily grind your own blanched almonds if you can’t find almond flour in stores. Just ensure they are finely ground for the best texture in your Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars.
How should I store Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars after baking?
Store your Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to another week; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Can I freeze Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars?
Absolutely! To freeze your Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars, first freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they will stay fresh for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisp.
What should I do if the dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too crumbly, don’t worry! Add a splash of cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together. It’s crucial not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are totally fine. This will help achieve the right soft dough consistency for rolling out your Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars.
Can I use a different flavor instead of orange blossom water?
Yes, if orange blossom water isn’t available, you can substitute it with rose water for a similar floral note. Alternatively, you can skip the flower water altogether and add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cigars?
Absolutely! If you have nut allergies, you might want to skip this recipe since it contains almond flour and blanched almonds. You can also explore using alternatives like sunflower seed flour. However, be cautious of cross-contamination if you’re cooking for someone with severe nut allergies. Always check ingredient labels for allergies if you’re serving this to guests.

Irresistible Moroccan Honey Almond Cigars to Sweeten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy, then beat in the egg.
- Mix the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until just combined.
- Make the filling by mixing almond flour, powdered sugar, egg white, orange blossom water, and cinnamon until sticky.
- Roll out the dough, spread the filling evenly, and roll tightly into a log.
- Cut the roll into 2-inch pieces and place seam side down on baking sheets.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and firm to touch.
- Prepare the glaze by combining honey, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan over low heat.
- Dip warm cigars into the honey glaze and place on wire rack to drain excess syrup.







