Traditional Egyptian Butter Cookies – Soft, Buttery, and Perfect for Eid!
Eid Biscuits (Baskot El Eid) are a must-have in Egyptian households during Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha. Unlike Kahk, which is filled, Eid biscuits are simple, airy, and buttery. They are sometimes flavored with vanilla, lemon zest, or orange juice, giving them a deliciously light taste.
Egyptians traditionally bake them in large batches before Eid and share them with family and neighbors.
🕑 Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Resting Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: About 40 biscuits
🍪 Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups butter (softened, at room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 pinch salt
For Decoration (Optional):
- Granulated sugar (for sprinkling before baking)
- Sesame seeds (for a traditional touch)
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1️⃣ In a large bowl, beat butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2️⃣ Add eggs, vanilla, and lemon zest, and continue whisking until smooth.
3️⃣ In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
4️⃣ Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5️⃣ Cover and let the dough rest for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Shape the Biscuits
6️⃣ Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
7️⃣ Roll the dough into small logs or circles (traditional shape).
8️⃣ Use a fork or biscuit cutter to create designs on top.
9️⃣ (Optional) Sprinkle with sugar or sesame seeds.
Step 3: Bake the Biscuits
🔟 Arrange biscuits on a lined baking tray and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.
1️⃣1️⃣ Allow to cool completely before serving.
💡 Tips for Perfect Eid Biscuits
✅ Use room temperature butter for a smooth dough.
✅ For extra flavor, add orange juice instead of milk.
✅ For crunchier biscuits, bake 1-2 extra minutes.
✅ Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks!
🍽️ How to Serve Eid Biscuits?
- With tea or coffee ☕ for a classic Egyptian experience.
- Dipped in warm milk for kids.
- Paired with honey or jam for extra sweetness.
