Date Cakes

Date cakes are usually shaped as rings and symbolise the crown of thorns put on the head of Jesus at the crucifixion. Traditionally prepared for Easter, many families will not serve them at any other time of year. They are invariably served with ma‘moul, made with the same dough but with a walnut or pistachio filling. Towards the end of Lent, women gather in each other’s houses to share the preparation of these cakes. They catch up on the latest gossip while their hands get busy in the chai