Monica Zaknoun

Tell us a little about yourself!

When I’m not cooking or baking something I saw on Great British Bake Off, I’m caught up in a book. My Lebanese culture is a huge part of me and definitely contributed to my love of baking and cooking, as it’s a very culinarily rich culture. Feeding others has always made my heart warm, so I never pass up the opportunity to plan and host a party. Traveling also lights up my spirit and inspires me to be more creative in the kitchen. Some of my all-time favorite trips have included Istanbul, Belize, Costa Rica, and Greece. 

What’s your favorite thing to bake? 

My favorite thing to bake is a traditional Lebanese/Middle Eastern cookie called maamoul. It is a delicate, short bread cookie flavored with orange blossom and then filled with either dates or spiced pistachios or walnuts. It is traditionally made during Easter or other large religious holidays. Making these are a rite of passage and always make me feel so connected to my family and my culture. And, because they’re so difficult and made in large quantities for giving to neighbors, it’s always something families make together.