Syrian Shaaibiyat – Recipe and Preparation Method

Syrian Shaaibiyat – Recipe and Preparation Method

Syrian Shaaibiyat are a popular traditional dessert widely enjoyed across the Levant, especially in Syria.

These sweet pastries are often served at joyful occasions such as engagements, weddings, and graduation celebrations. They are rich and filling—just one 150-gram piece contains about 595 calories, 29 grams of fat, 9 grams of saturated fat, 32 grams of cholesterol, 80 grams of carbohydrates, and 5 grams of protein.

Ingredients for 12 Pieces of Shaaibiyat

Syrian Shaaibiyat

 

For the Dough:

  • 3 cups flour

  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

  • A pinch of salt

  • 4 tablespoons cooled sugar syrup

  • 1 tablespoon ghee

  • 1 cup soft ghee (for layering the dough)

For the Filling:

  • Clotted cream (ashta) OR a mixture of chopped walnuts, sugar, shredded coconut, and orange blossom water

For the Syrup:

  • 2 cups sugar

  • 1 cup water

  • ½ teaspoon citric acid (or lemon juice)

  • 1 tablespoon orange blossom water

Method of Preparation

  1. Prepare the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and citric acid. Bring to a boil and cook for about 5 minutes after boiling. Add the orange blossom water, stir, and remove from heat. Let the syrup cool completely.

  2. Make the Dough: Mix the flour, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl. Add the sugar syrup and 1 tablespoon of ghee, then gradually add 1 cup of water while kneading until a soft dough forms. Let it rest for about 60 minutes.

  3. Layer the Dough: Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Roll out the first piece thinly, brush with ghee, then place the second piece on top. Repeat with the third and fourth layers, brushing each one with ghee. Roll the stacked dough into a log (roll shape). Place the log in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

  4. Shape and Fill: After chilling, cut the rolled dough, flatten slightly, and add the cream or nut filling in the center. Seal the edges well.

  5. Bake: Grease a baking tray with ghee, arrange the Shaaibiyat on it, and bake in a preheated oven with both top and bottom heat until golden and crispy.

  6. Finish: Remove from the oven, immediately drizzle with cold syrup, and let them soak briefly. Serve warm on a platter and garnish with additional nuts if desired.

These flaky, creamy pastries are a symbol of Syrian hospitality and are sure to impress your guests with their rich flavor and golden crunch.

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