Kaab el ghazal, Morocco's iconic crescent-shaped pastry, is celebrated for its delicate almond filling and understated elegance. Despite its plain appearance, it holds a special place in Moroccan patisseries, often selling out by afternoon and earning the nickname 'divas of the Moroccan pastry world.'

The dessert's history stretches back centuries, with roots in Andalusian cookbooks and influences from Indigenous North African peoples, Middle Eastern immigrants, and European colonizers. Its name, meaning 'gazelle horns' or 'gazelle ankles,' evokes themes of grace and beauty, and folk tales have woven it into stories of love and endurance.

Traditionally, kaab el ghazal played a vital social role, prepared in large quantities by families for celebrations and gatherings. Today, it remains a symbol of hospitality, frequently offered to guests alongside mint tea, and is still crafted by hand in bakeries and homes, especially in the city of Fez, renowned for its culinary heritage.

While modern twists on the pastry have emerged, the classic version—delicately scented with orange blossom water and baked to tender perfection—continues to embody Morocco's rich traditions and enduring spirit of welcome.