Description
This Authentic Turkish Delight recipe brings the traditional Middle Eastern sweet treat to your kitchen with a simple, homemade approach. Featuring a delicate rosewater-infused gelatinous texture, lightly dusted with powdered sugar and optionally studded with nuts, these chewy cubes offer a classic, fragrant dessert perfect for sharing or gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Sugar Syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
For the Cornstarch Slurry
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (or cream of tartar)
- 3/4 cup cold water
For Flavor and Finishing
- 1 tablespoon rosewater or orange blossom water
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional – pistachios, walnuts, or hazelnuts)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper and dust generously with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Gather and measure all ingredients for smooth preparation.
- Make Sugar Syrup: In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, 1/2 cup water, and lemon juice. Stir continuously until sugar dissolves completely and mixture reaches a gentle boil.
- Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a separate bowl, whisk the cornstarch into 3/4 cup cold water until fully dissolved, forming a smooth slurry to thicken the Turkish Delight.
- Combine and Cook: Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the cornstarch slurry while stirring constantly. Transfer the mixture back to the saucepan and simmer gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent lumps, until it thickens into a glossy, gel-like consistency, about 20-30 minutes.
- Add Flavor and Nuts: Remove from heat. Stir in rosewater or your chosen flavoring, then fold in the chopped nuts if using. Pour the mixture immediately into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.
- Set the Delight: Cover the pan and allow the Turkish Delight to sit at room temperature for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight, until firm and set.
- Cut and Dust: Once fully set, dust the top with powdered sugar. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut into approximately 36 small cubes. Toss the cubes in additional powdered sugar to coat all sides and prevent sticking.
Notes
- Using cream of tartar instead of cornstarch will alter the texture slightly but still yield a good chewy candy.
- Rosewater provides a classic flavor, but orange blossom water or lemon extracts can be used for variation.
- Optional nuts add texture and flavor but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
- For best results, ensure to stir continuously during cooking to prevent lumps and scorching.
- Store Turkish Delight in an airtight container, dusted with powdered sugar to keep it from sticking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Turkish
