Sesame Seed Cookies "Kukku"

 

The Akkadian word for sesame is, samas-sammu, related to our modern word for sesame. These delicious cookies are called kukku —one Akkadian word for sesame cookies. They are light, crunchy, and not too sweet. A perfect balance of simple ingredients. Enjoyed best with a hot cup of Assyrian tea! 

Yield: 2 to 3 dozen cookies​
 

Ingredients

2.5 cup (20 oz) toasted sesame seeds
1 pound chopped pistachios
1 pound (4 sticks) of unsalted softened butter
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup of milk
4 cups all-purpose flour 
 

Egg wash (glue for sesame seeds)

2 eggs
 

Method

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheet with nonstick baking mat. 
 

Place the sesame seeds and pistachios in two separate wide shallow bowls or in small plates and set them aside.
 

Next, beat eggs (for your egg wash and glue for sesame seeds) in a bowl and set aside.

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until well combined. Then gradually pour in the milk and flour. Mix until you have a pliable dough of medium consistency.
 

Take a heaping teaspoon of dough and form it into a flat disc. Then press one side into the plate of pistachios and take it out. Now, brush the other side with the egg wash and press the brushed side into the sesame plate. Repeat with the remaining dough.

 

Place the cookies on the baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until they turn light to golden brown.

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Remove the pan from the oven and set cookies on a cooling rack. Cool completely before storing your delicious golden treats in an airtight container.  

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