Maltese Sweet November Bones (Ghadam tal-Mejtin)

Maltese Sweet November Bones (Ghadam tal-Mejtin)

These traditional Maltese cookies are perfect for celebrating All Souls’ Day. Shaped like bones and filled with almond marzipan, they’re a deliciously sweet treat!

Ingredients

For the Marzipan Filling:

• 2 cups ground almonds

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 teaspoon almond extract

• 2 egg whites

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

• 1 large egg yolk

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Pinch of salt

For the Icing (optional):

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• Fresh lemon juice (adjust for desired consistency)

• Melted white chocolate (optional, for decoration)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marzipan Filling:

• In a bowl, mix together the ground almonds, powdered sugar, and lemon zest.

• Add the almond extract and 2 egg whites, stirring until the mixture forms a paste that holds together when pressed.

• Shape the filling into small logs (about 2–3 inches long) and set aside.

2. Make the Dough:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, lemon zest, and salt.

• Add the cold butter cubes and rub them in with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

• Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing just until a dough forms (try not to overmix).

• Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.

3. Assemble the Cookies:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.

• Cut rectangles of dough (about 2 inches wide and 3 inches long).

• Place a marzipan log on each rectangle and wrap the dough around it, sealing the edges.

• Shape each wrapped log to resemble a bone, pinching the ends slightly for the “knobs.”

4. Bake:

• Place the cookies on the baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

• Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely.

5. Serve:

• For a traditional finish, mix the powdered sugar with enough lemon juice to create a smooth, spreadable icing, then drizzle or spread it over the cookies.

• Alternatively, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top, as shown in the photo. Let the icing or chocolate set before serving.

Enjoy your Maltese Sweet November Bones!