If you’re looking for an easy homemade cookie that requires simple ingredients and delivers incredible flavor, these Peanut and Coconut Ghriba Cookies are a perfect choice. With their delicate cracked surface, soft interior, and rich nutty taste, they are the kind of treats that disappear quickly from the serving plate.
Made without flour, butter, or milk, these cookies have a naturally light texture while remaining wonderfully moist and flavorful. Ground peanuts provide richness, shredded coconut adds sweetness and texture, and a touch of lemon zest brings freshness that balances every bite.
Whether served during festive occasions, family gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply enjoyed with coffee, these cookies are always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. There is no need for complicated techniques or special equipment.
The dough comes together in just a few minutes using everyday pantry ingredients. Once baked, the cookies develop their signature cracked appearance thanks to the generous coating of powdered sugar.
They are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and filled with a delicious combination of peanut and coconut flavors.
Another advantage is that they stay fresh for several days, making them ideal for preparing ahead of holidays and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 250g ground peanuts
- 125g shredded coconut
- 100g granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 60ml vegetable oil
- 1 packet baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Zest of ½ lemon
- ½ tablespoon apricot jam
For Decoration
- Powdered sugar
- Orange blossom water
How to Make Peanut and Coconut Ghriba Cookies
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground peanuts, shredded coconut, sugar, and salt.
Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Add the eggs, vegetable oil, lemon zest, apricot jam, and baking powder.
Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until a soft and uniform dough forms.
If the dough feels slightly dry, allow it to rest for a few minutes before shaping.
Pour the orange blossom water into a small bowl and the powdered sugar into another.
Lightly moisten your hands with orange blossom water and shape the dough into small balls.
Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar until fully coated.
Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each cookie.
Bake for approximately 15 minutes or until the cookies develop their characteristic cracks while remaining lightly colored.
Avoid overbaking, as the secret to their melt-in-your-mouth texture is a short baking time.
Once removed from the oven, allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking tray before handling them, as they will be very delicate while warm.
Tips for Perfect Ghriba Cookies
- Do not overbake the cookies.
- Roll generously in powdered sugar to achieve beautiful cracks.
- Fresh lemon zest enhances the flavor significantly.
- If the dough seems too dry, add a small amount of beaten egg.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect alongside:
- Mint tea
- Black coffee
- Cappuccino
- Hot chocolate
- Afternoon tea platters
They also make a wonderful addition to holiday dessert tables and homemade cookie assortments.
Storage Tips
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Because they contain no butter, they keep their texture remarkably well and remain soft for several days.
They can also be prepared ahead of special occasions, making them a practical choice when planning dessert trays.
Conclusion
Peanut and Coconut Ghriba Cookies are proof that a few simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. With their delicate texture, rich peanut flavor, subtle coconut sweetness, and beautiful cracked appearance, these cookies are both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Perfect for celebrations, tea time, or everyday treats, this recipe delivers bakery-style results with minimal effort and is sure to become a favorite in your collection of homemade cookies.
