Embark on a journey to the heart of Algerian culinary tradition with our authentic Oran Kaak, a time-honored brioche recipe that has been passed down through generations. Originating from the sun-kissed landscapes of Algeria, these delightful sweet brioche biscuits are delicately flavored with anise and citrus, taking the form of scored crowns sprinkled with sesame seeds. Today’s recipe is a traditional version to achieve a soft Kaak that leaves a delightful scent of anise and orange blossom throughout the house after baking.

Origin and history

Kaak, or more precisely ka‘ak (Arabic: كعك), literally means ‘cake’ in classical Arabic. It is a term that can refer to several Maghrebi and Oriental pastries shaped like rings. Kaak, the traditional Algerian brioche, has roots deeply embedded in Algerian and Maghrebi culinary traditions. Various versions of Kaak are found in different North African countries.

The recipe we’re about to prepare hails from our hometown — the renowned Kaak of Oran (Kaak Wahran).

Kaak Wahran, or (Kaak of Oran, originating from the city of Oran), is a brioche dough, circular, sprinkled with sesame seeds, and with a ‘softer’ texture resembling that of mouna. Flavored with anise and orange zest. Brushed with egg yolk before baking, which gives it a beautiful shiny copper texture.

The use of ingredients like orange blossom water and sesame seeds in Kaak reflects the influence of the Mediterranean flavors that characterize Maghrebi cuisine. These ingredients not only add distinctive flavors but also connect the preparation to the broader culinary traditions of the region.

The precise historical origins of Kaak are challenging to trace, as traditional recipes are often passed down through generations orally. However, its enduring presence in Algerian homes and communities highlights its cultural significance and the role it plays in preserving culinary heritage.

Tips and notes

Here are some tips and notes for a successful Oran Kaak recipe:

  • Use high-quality ingredients. This is especially important for the flour, anise, orange zest, and sesame seeds, as they contribute significantly to the flavor.
  • The traditional recipe is perfumed with orange blossom and orange or lemon zest. We didn’t have any orange so we’ve used lemon zest in our recipe.
  • The authentic recipe includes various seeds such as anise, fennel, and sesame seeds.
  • Ensure the anise and orange zest are fresh for a vibrant and aromatic result. The balance of these flavors is crucial for the distinct taste of Oran Kaak.
  • For optimal flavor in your kaaks, it’s recommended to use whole seeds and crush them just before incorporating them into the recipe.
  • Toast sesame seeds lightly before adding them to enhance their flavor and aroma.
  • Applying an egg wash before baking contributes to that beautiful copper shine. Ensure even coverage for an attractive finish.
  • Allow the dough to rise sufficiently. This contributes to the light and airy texture characteristic of Kaak. It may take from 1 to 4 hours.
  • If you want to make authentic kaak, pay attention to the shaping, whether they are in the form of circles or crowns. This contributes to their traditional appearance. But feel free, if you want to use other shapes…

Serving

Kaak is often enjoyed with a hot beverage. Share the joy of your freshly baked Kaak with friends and family, embracing the communal and celebratory aspect of this traditional treat.

Variants

  • Brioche;
  • Bagels;
  • Simit;
  • Kaâk nekkache;
  • Kâak Tlemcen;
  • Ma’moul;

Kaak of Oran: Traditional Algerian Brioche Recipe

Embark on a journey to the heart of Algerian culinary tradition with our authentic Oran Kaak, a time-honored brioche recipe that has been passed down through generations. Originating from the sun-kissed landscapes of Algeria, these delightful sweet brioche biscuits are delicately flavored with anise and citrus, taking the form of scored crowns sprinkled with sesame seeds. Today's recipe is a traditional version to achieve a soft Kaak that leaves a delightful scent of anise and orange blossom throughout the house after baking.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Course Bread, Cakes, Cookies, Dessert
Cuisine Algerian
Servings 10 brioches
Calories 393 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g flour
  • 80 g sugar
  • 250 ml milk
  • 80 ml oil
  • 50 g roasted sesame seeds
  • 10 g powdered milk
  • 10 g instant yeast
  • 10 g baking powder
  • 10 g vanilla sugar
  • 10 ml orange blossom
  • 6 g anise seeds
  • 6 g fennel seeds
  • 6 g lemon zest (or orange zest)
  • 3 g salt

Egg wash

  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp instant coffee
  • 30 g sesame seeds
  • 30 g pearl sugar

Instructions
 

  • Crush the anise and fennel seeds.
  • Prepare the surdough by combining the lukewarm milk, sugar, instant yeast and 1 cup of flour.
  • Mix and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, combine the dry ingredients: flour, powdered milk, baking powder, and salt. Mix.
  • After the surdough is rested for 10 minutes, add the oil and mix.
  • Add to the surdough and oil : lemon zest, vanille sugar, sesame seeds, crushed anise and fennel seeds. Then, mix.
  • Add the dry ingredients to the surdough mixture and mix all the ingredients.
  • Knead the dough for 10 minutes (you can use a stand mixer).
  • Cover and let it rest for a good hour, or even more (until 4 hours).
  • After one hour, deflate the dough. Divide it in 10 parts of 100g each. Shape each portion by rolling on a floured surface.
  • Roll each ball into long sticks of 6in(15cm) long and 1in (2.5cm) wide, make 10 cuts all along it and join the two ends to form a crown. Be cautious not to cut through the crown completely.
  • Place the kaak on a baking tray (let space between them). And do the same for the rest.
  • Do the same for the rest and leave to rise for 30-45min
  • Prepare the egg wash by mixing 1 egg, 1tbsp milk, and 1tsp instant coffee.
  • Brush the crowns with the egg wash and sprinkle with pearl sugar and sesame seeds.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes at 360°F (180°C) or when the crowns are golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 30 minutes.
Keyword Algeria, Bread, Cakes, cookies, Dessert
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 1 kaak
Servings Per Container 10 kaaks

Amount Per Serving
Calories 393 Calories from Fat 122.4
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 13.6g 21%
Saturated Fat 2.2g 11%
Trans Fat g
Cholesterol 39mg 13%
Sodium 155mg 6%
Total Carbohydrate 60.9g 20%
Dietary Fiber 4.5g 18%
Sugars 15.3g
Protein 10.2g 20%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.