Cookbook:Ghraiba bil Loz (Libyan Almond Ghraiba)

Ghreyba bil loz is a delicious Libyan almond cookie loved for its delicate texture and rich almond flavor. These cookies are often enjoyed during festive occasions and are a popular treat in Libyan cuisine. Ghreyba bil loz melts in your mouth and is perfect for serving with a cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients

 * 1 cup butter, softened
 * ½ cup powdered sugar
 * 2 cups all-purpose flour
 * ½ cup finely ground almonds
 * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
 * Whole almonds, for decoration

Equipment

 * Mixing bowl
 * Electric mixer or wooden spoon
 * Baking sheet
 * Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
 * Oven
 * Wire rack

Procedure

 * 1) Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
 * 2) In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
 * 3) Add the flour, ground almonds, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined and a soft dough forms.
 * 4) Pinch off small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about the size of a walnut. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
 * 5) Press a whole almond into the center of each cookie ball, gently flattening the cookies slightly.
 * 6) Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown.
 * 7) Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * Ghribia bil loz are delicate and crumbly, so handle them gently when transferring to the wire rack.
 * The cookies will firm up as they cool, so don't worry if they seem soft right out of the oven.
 * Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature to easily cream it with the powdered sugar.
 * If you prefer a more pronounced almond flavor, you can add a few drops of almond extract to the dough along with the vanilla extract.
 * For a touch of citrus, add the zest of 1 lemon or orange to the dough.
 * Dust the cooled cookies with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.