Go Back
Date paste wrapped in a crumbly pastry, spiced with cardamom and cinnamon.

Klecha Recipe

Jay
You will love this Iraqi Klecha recipe which is made of date paste spiced with cardamom and cinnamon and wrapped in a crumbly pastry.
4.15 from 14 votes
Tried this recipe?Mention @sourandsweets or tag #sourandsweets!
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 25 minutes
30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine Mediterranean
Calories

Ingredients
  

Dough Recipe:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup oil any neutral flavored oil
  • 1 cup lukewarm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt

date filling

  • 2 , 13 oz baking date
  • ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder
  • ½ teaspoon cardamom powder

egg wash

  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions
 

Make the Dough

  • In the bowl of the stand mixer, combine flour and oil. Start the mixer and blend for 1-2 minutes until the flour is thoroughly coated with oil.
  • Combine yeast and sugar with water, then mix. If using active dry yeast, allow it to activate for 10 minutes before incorporating it into the flour mixture. Add the salt.
  • Knead the dough for a couple of minutes until a soft dough ball is formed.
  • Cover the dough and let it rest for an hour until it doubles in size.

Make the Filling

  • While waiting, prepare the filling. Place date paste, shredded coconut, oil, cinnamon powder, and cardamom powder in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for one minute, then mix until thoroughly combined. Ensure the filling is warm for easy spreading before use.

Assemble and Bake

  • Divide the dough into 2 dough balls.
  • On a clean, flat surface, place the dough ball and roll it out into a thin circle shape.
  • Microwave the date paste and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  • Spread the date paste into the dough evenly.
  • Start by taking one side of the dough and rolling it into a log shape. Roll it halfway, then repeat the process from the other side until both ends are of equal size. Cut the log in the middle, resulting in two logs. Gently flatten each log with your hand.
  • Use a knife to delicately slice the roll into pieces approximately ½ to 1 inch thick, or thinner if desired. Be cautious not to make the slices too large, as they are likely to expand in size during baking.
  • Place klecha in a prepared baking tray.
  • Beat one egg in a bowl with milk. Brush each piece with egg wash mixture.
  • Repeat the process with the other pieces of dough.
  • Preheat the oven to 400 F.
  • Bake for 20-22 minutes and broil until golden.