{"id":17224,"date":"2026-04-08T21:53:03","date_gmt":"2026-04-08T21:53:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hadiaslebanesecuisine.com\/blog\/?p=17224"},"modified":"2026-10-07T22:57:38","modified_gmt":"2026-10-07T22:57:38","slug":"authentic-kaak-al-abbas-recipe","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hadiaslebanesecuisine.com\/blog\/authentic-kaak-al-abbas-recipe\/","title":{"rendered":"Kaak Al Abbas"},"content":{"rendered":"

Fragrant with spices and turmeric, this tender sweet bread known as Kaak Al Abbas is a cross between bread and a cookie. Made from a yeasted dough studded with sesame seeds and anise, it is perfumed with a blend of aromatic spices called da\u2019et kaak. There\u2019s a special kind of joy in pulling a tray of Kaak Al Abbas from the oven\u2014they look impressive and taste even better. A treat like Kaak Al Abbas is always welcome at breakfast, for dessert, or on any festive occasion.<\/p>\n

\"Kaak<\/p>\n

Ashura and Kaak Al Abbas<\/h2>\n

Kaak Al Abbas cookies are traditionally made during Ashura, which takes place in Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. They are often prepared and served by volunteers. This tradition plays a symbolic role in remembering the suffering, hunger, and thirst experienced by Imam Al-Hussein and his family, while also providing an opportunity for people to come together and share their faith.<\/p>\n

The name \u201cKaak Al Abbas\u201d refers to Abu Al-Fadl Al-Abbas, the son of Imam Ali and half-brother of Imam Al-Hussein. He played a significant role in the Battle of Karbala and is remembered as a symbol of courage, loyalty, and sacrifice.<\/p>\n

Of course, we enjoy this classic sweet bread throughout the year, but during the ten days leading up to Ashura, Kaak Al Abbas truly takes center stage. It does not have to be the only sweet served, but it should at least be part of the lineup.<\/p>\n

That said, Kaak Al Abbas can be prepared and enjoyed at any time of the year, including Eid and many other special occasions. It is not exclusively reserved for Ashura.<\/p>\n

\"Abbas<\/p>\n

The Sweet Bread Has Multiple Names in Lebanon<\/h3>\n

There are several names for this classic Lebanese sweet bread, including Kaak el Eid, Kaak al Khamees,<\/strong> and Almorakad<\/strong>. If you call it Kaak al Abbas<\/strong>, you\u2019re likely from southern Lebanon.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s something special about this mildly sweet treat. It\u2019s delicious on its own, but even better with labneh and a cup of tea. And there\u2019s nothing quite like a warm, fresh-from-the-oven piece of Kaak al Abbas. So, if you happen to sneak a second piece, surely you can\u2019t be blamed!<\/p>\n

\"Kaak<\/p>\n

Molded Sweet Bread<\/h3>\n

The dough is made with flour, yeast, sugar, oil, powdered milk, and spices. After the dough has had time to rise, it is divided into balls and then flattened onto a special wooden mold. The dough is pressed onto the mold to create the beautiful pattern, then gently popped out using your finger. The molded dough is transferred to a baking sheet and baked until golden.<\/p>\n

\"Abbas<\/p>\n

A Family Favorite & a Sacred Recipe from My Cookbook<\/strong><\/h2>\n

This is a mainstay recipe from my cookbook\u2014one I\u2019ve kept in my repertoire and never looked back from. I never felt the need to try another Kaak al Abbas<\/em> recipe after discovering this one.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s the kind of sweet bread that disappears almost as quickly as it\u2019s served. Once, I dropped off dozens for my kids, and they emptied the entire pan in just 10 minutes!<\/p>\n

I would love for you to recreate these in your own kitchen. They\u2019re truly special\u2014soft, delicious, and utterly irresistible. It\u2019s a perfect recipe, and you have my word on that<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Ingredients<\/h3>\n