Briouat bil Loz - Almond Pastry Triangles
MoroccanSnack

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Briouat bil Loz represents the pinnacle of North African pastry artistry, where paper-thin warqa pastry encases a luxurious filling of ground almonds sweetened with honey and aromatic spices. Each triangle is carefully folded by hand, then fried or baked until golden and crisp. The contrast between the shattering pastry exterior and the soft, fragrant almond filling creates an irresistible texture. Traditionally served during celebrations and special gatherings, these pastries are often finished with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey. The addition of orange blossom water and cinnamon gives the filling its distinctive perfume, while toasted sesame seeds add a subtle nutty depth. Perfect alongside mint tea, these delicate pastries showcase the refined sweetness and aromatic complexity that defines traditional dessert-making across the Maghreb region.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool.

  2. In a food processor, pulse almonds until finely ground but not paste-like. Transfer to a mixing bowl.

  3. Add powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, toasted sesame seeds, melted butter, and orange blossom water to the almonds. Mix until well combined into a paste.

  4. Add honey gradually until the mixture holds together when pressed but is not overly wet.

  5. Divide the almond filling into 24 equal portions and roll each into a small log shape.

  6. Cut phyllo dough sheets into strips approximately 3 inches wide and 10 inches long.

  7. Place one almond log at the bottom corner of a phyllo strip. Fold the corner over the filling to form a triangle.

  8. Continue folding the triangle up the strip, maintaining the triangle shape with each fold, like folding a flag.

  9. Seal the end with a dab of water or egg white. Repeat with remaining filling and dough.

  10. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).

  11. Fry briouats in batches, 3-4 at a time, until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.

  12. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

  13. While still warm, drizzle lightly with honey or dust with powdered sugar if desired.

  14. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Briouat bil Loz - Almond Pastry Triangles

4.5 (19)

Crispy golden pastry triangles filled with fragrant almond paste, delicately perfumed with orange blossom water and cinnamon. These elegant bite-sized treats are a beloved tradition in North African homes.

medium
50 min
24 servings

Ingredients

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Filling

  • 3 cups Flour, sifted
  • 4 tablespoons Butter, melted
  • 3 tablespoons Honey
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Cinnamon, ground
  • 2 tablespoons Orange, orange blossom water
  • 1/4 cups Breadcrumbs, toasted sesame seeds

Assembly

  • 1 pieces Eggs, white only (optional)

Frying

  • 4 cups Vegetable Oil

Chef Tips

expert advice
The almond filling can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey to taste.
These pastries pair beautifully with fresh mint tea or strong coffee.
For extra elegance, garnish with crushed pistachios or edible rose petals.
The key to perfect briouats is keeping the phyllo dough covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying.

Variations & Substitutions

make it your own
For a lighter version, brush the folded triangles with melted butter and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes until golden.
If warqa pastry is available, use it instead of phyllo for a more traditional texture.
Orange blossom water is essential for authentic flavor, but rose water can be substituted if needed.

Storage & Reheating

keeping it fresh
Storage

Store cooled briouats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Layer between parchment paper to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze unfilled or filled but uncooked triangles for up to 1 month. If freezing after cooking, reheat before serving to restore crispness.

Reheating

To restore crispness, place briouats on a baking sheet and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as this will make them soggy. Frozen uncooked briouats can be fried directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to cooking time.