Preparing the Dough: 1. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine semolina or fine semolina flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, and mahlab. 2. **Add Butter or Ghee:** Gradually incorporate the butter or ghee into the dry mixture using your hands. Rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse sand. 3. **Activate Yeast:** Dissolve yeast in warm milk or water (not too hot) and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. 4. **Combine and Knead:** Pour the yeast mixture into the flour and butter mixture. Knead the dough until it's smooth and pliable. You may need to add more warm water or milk to achieve the right consistency. 5. **Rest the Dough:** Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about an hour in a warm place, allowing it to rise slightly. Preparing the Filling: 1. **Mash the Dates:** Place the seedless dates in a bowl and mash them until smooth. You can use a food processor for this step if you prefer a finer texture. 2. **Add Spices and Oil:** Mix in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, olive oil, or melted butter with the mashed dates until well combined. This will create a fragrant and smooth filling. Assembling the Ka'ek: 1.
