The Top 5 Moroccan Desserts to Pair with Tea or Coffee

Moroccan cuisine is renowned for its rich, flavorful desserts that perfectly complement the country’s signature mint tea or strong coffee. If you're looking to indulge in authentic Moroccan sweets, here are the top 5 desserts you must try, whether you're enjoying a quiet afternoon or hosting a gathering.

1. Baklava

Baklava is a universally beloved dessert, and the Moroccan version is no exception. This sweet pastry is made by layering thin sheets of filo dough with chopped nuts (often pistachios or walnuts), then drenching it in a fragrant honey syrup. Its crisp, buttery layers and nutty filling create the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making it an ideal companion for a hot cup of Moroccan mint tea or a rich coffee.

2. Chebakia

Chebakia is a traditional Moroccan dessert often prepared during Ramadan. These delicate, fried pastries are shaped into beautiful flowers, coated in sesame seeds, and then soaked in honey. The result is a crispy yet chewy texture and a sweet, fragrant flavor. Paired with Moroccan mint tea, chebakia brings together the perfect harmony of sweetness and herbal freshness.

3. Ghriba (Almond Cookies)

Ghriba are light, almond-based cookies that have a melt-in-your-mouth quality. They are slightly crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, often dusted with powdered sugar. The nutty flavor of these cookies pairs wonderfully with a strong cup of coffee, balancing out the richness with their delicate sweetness.

4. Makrout

Makrout is a semolina-based pastry filled with dates, nuts, and sometimes a hint of cinnamon. It is then deep-fried and soaked in syrup, resulting in a sweet, moist treat. Its rich, comforting flavor makes it a great match for a warm cup of Moroccan coffee or tea, offering a satisfying end to any meal.

5. Kaab El Ghazal

Kaab El Ghazal, meaning "gazelle’s horn," is a Moroccan pastry shaped like a crescent and filled with a sweet almond paste. The dough is thin and flaky, while the filling is fragrant with orange blossom water, adding a delicate floral aroma. These pastries are light yet flavorful, making them the perfect pairing with a glass of Moroccan mint tea.

Why Moroccan Desserts?

Moroccan desserts are not just about sweetness—they often feature a balance of textures and aromatic flavors that make them truly special. The use of natural ingredients like almonds, dates, honey, and spices gives these desserts a distinct taste that's both comforting and exotic.

Whether you’re looking for something light and crispy like ghriba, or something rich and indulgent like makrout, these desserts are all perfect companions for your tea or coffee. They’re great for any occasion, whether you're entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a moment of Moroccan indulgence.

Tip: Don’t forget to pair your dessert with traditional Moroccan mint tea for the full experience! The fresh mint and green tea flavor complement the richness of the sweets beautifully. Enjoy!