RIYADH March 31, 2025: The scent of freshly baked maamoul cookies is a signature element of Eid celebrations in Saudi Arabia.
Maamoul cookies, typically filled with dates, walnuts, pistachios, and other nuts, are sprinkled with crushed white sugar and are traditionally enjoyed with Saudi tea or coffee. They are a symbol of festive gatherings, with families often shaping them in the final days of Ramadan before Eid.
Mammol Bouquet, a Saudi-owned bakery known for its creative dessert offerings, presents a colorful variety of these butter cookies. Owner Hanan Al-Zain spoke to Arab News about the cookie’s importance in Arab culture.
“Maamoul is a traditional dessert in the Arab world, especially in the Levant and Gulf regions,” Al-Zain said. “It is a key part of Arab heritage, passed down through generations as a symbol of hospitality and generosity, especially during occasions like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.”
Mammol Bouquet, established in 2020, has become a beloved spot for locals in Qatif. Al-Zain explained that her motivation for opening the shop was to spread joy during special occasions, with maamoul evoking cherished memories of gifting.
The bakery specializes in floral-shaped maamoul infused with different flavors and colors—yellow for saffron, green for pistachio, and brown for wheat. Al-Zain emphasized that the store’s creations stand out in a market saturated with traditional offerings, thanks to the innovative flavors and passion behind the concept.