North African Date and Almond Ma'amoul

In a large bowl, combine 2 cups fine semolina, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Rub the mixture with your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 1/4 cup warm milk, mixing until a soft dough forms. Cover and let rest for 15 minutes.

While the dough rests, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup finely chopped pitted dates, 1/2 cup almond flour, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom. Mix well until a cohesive paste forms.

Preheat your oven to 350°F/175°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Take a small piece of semolina dough (about 1 tablespoon) and flatten it into a disc in your palm. Place about 1 teaspoon of the date and almond filling in the center.

Carefully bring the edges of the dough together to enclose the filling, forming a ball. Gently press the ball into a ma'amoul mold or flatten slightly and create a decorative pattern with a fork.

Place the formed cookies on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust generously with 1/4 cup powdered sugar before serving.