The Mediterranean region is renowned for its delectable cuisine, rich flavors, and vibrant culture. When it comes to desserts, the Mediterranean takes center stage with its array of sweet treats that are as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy. From classic baklava to creamy yogurt parfaits, and from crispy phyllo pastries to silky smooth puddings, the region’s dessert repertoire is a treasure trove of flavors and textures.
In this article, we’ll embark on a culinary journey through the Mediterranean, exploring 20 mouthwatering dessert recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth. From Greece to Turkey, and from Lebanon to Morocco, each country has its own unique twist on traditional desserts. So, get ready to indulge in a world of flavors and aromas as we dive into the sweet side of the Mediterranean!
Baklava with Honey and Walnuts
This classic Middle Eastern dessert combines layers of flaky phyllo, crunchy walnuts, and sweet honey to create a delightful treat. Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together walnuts, sugar, honey, cinnamon, and cardamom.
4. Layer phyllo dough in a 9×13 inch baking dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
5. Sprinkle the walnut mixture evenly over the top of the third layer of phyllo dough.
6. Top with another layer of phyllo dough and brush with more melted butter.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Yogurt with Figs and Honey
This classic Mediterranean combination of creamy yogurt, sweet figs, and golden honey is a simple yet satisfying snack or dessert. The sweetness of the honey and the natural sweetness of the figs pair perfectly with the tanginess of the yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 ripe figs, sliced
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, layer the sliced figs and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of honey.
2. Spoon the Greek yogurt over the fig mixture.
3. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of honey over the yogurt.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None
Loukoumades (Greek Honey Puffs)
Loukoumades are traditional Greek treats that have been delighting taste buds for centuries. These sweet, crispy puffed dough balls drizzled with warm honey and sprinkled with cinnamon are a must-try.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Honey, for drizzling
– Cinnamon, for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the oil and mix until crumbly.
3. Add the lukewarm water and knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Using a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil.
8. Drizzle with warm honey and sprinkle with cinnamon.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (including resting time)
Revani (Semolina Cake with Syrup)
Revani (Semolina Cake with Syrup) Recipe
Revani is a traditional Greek dessert that consists of a moist semolina cake soaked in a sweet and sticky syrup. This recipe yields a delicious and authentic Revani that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 250g semolina
– 2 cups sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– Syrup ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together semolina, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, oil, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Add lukewarm milk and mix until well combined.
6. Pour the batter into a greased 20cm (8-inch) round cake pan.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Syrup:
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
To make the syrup, combine sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened. If using rose water, stir it in just before serving.
Halva with Tahini and Pistachios
Halva, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert, gets an upgrade with the addition of creamy tahini and crunchy pistachios. This simple recipe yields a deliciously rich and nutty treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva (semolina-based dessert)
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Cut the halva into small cubes.
2. In a bowl, mix together the tahini and honey until smooth.
3. Add the cubed halva to the tahini mixture and stir until well coated.
4. Fold in the chopped pistachios.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe!
Kataifi (Shredded Phyllo Dessert)
A classic Middle Eastern dessert, Kataifi is a sweet and flaky treat that’s perfect for special occasions. This recipe yields a crispy, syrupy delight that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of kataifi pastry (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup rose water (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios or almonds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw kataifi pastry according to package instructions.
3. Cut the pastry into small pieces and shred it into thin strips.
4. In a large bowl, mix together sugar, water, and rose water (if using).
5. Add the shredded phyllo to the syrup mixture and stir until well coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped nuts (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Galaktoboureko (Custard Pie with Phyllo)
This classic Greek dessert is a sweet and flaky masterpiece, featuring creamy custard filling wrapped in layers of crispy phyllo dough. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this heavenly treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen section or international aisle)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
5. Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Brush with some of the custard mixture.
6. Repeat step 5, layering phyllo and custard, ending with a layer of phyllo on top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkish Delight (Rose-Flavored Lokum)
Turkish Delight, also known as Lokum or Rahat Lokum, is a traditional Middle Eastern confectionery that has been delighting palates for centuries. This recipe yields a deliciously chewy and fragrant Rose-Flavored Lokum that’s perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 1 teaspoon orange blossom water (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Food coloring (pink or red, optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar and cornstarch in a medium saucepan.
2. Add water and whisk until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 180°F (82°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in rosewater, orange blossom water (if using), and salt.
5. Pour onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or a piece of parchment paper.
6. Let cool and set for about 30 minutes.
7. Knead the mixture until it forms a smooth, pliable dough.
8. Shape into small cubes or other desired shapes.
9. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes (including preparation and cooling time).
Basbousa (Semolina and Coconut Cake)
A traditional Middle Eastern dessert, Basbousa is a sweet and fragrant cake made with semolina flour, coconut, and spices. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful treat perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons rose water (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together semolina flour, sugar, coconut, cardamom, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and rose water (if using). Mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mahalabia (Middle Eastern Milk Pudding)
This traditional Middle Eastern dessert is a simple yet rich milk pudding infused with the warmth of cardamom and the sweetness of sugar. Perfect for special occasions or as a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cardamom, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and a splash of the warm milk until smooth.
3. Add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent skin formation.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Ekmek Kataifi (Shredded Phyllo with Custard)
This classic Turkish dessert is a delightful combination of crispy shredded phyllo and creamy custard. Ekmek Kataifi is a popular treat in Turkey, often served at special occasions and celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of kataifi pastry (shredded phyllo)
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Cut the kataifi pastry into smaller pieces and layer them in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Pour the custard mixture over the phyllo layers.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Portokalopita (Orange Phyllo Cake)
A classic Greek dessert, Portokalopita combines the brightness of orange with the crispy layers of phyllo. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together orange juice, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and whisk until smooth.
4. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into 12 equal pieces.
5. Brush each piece with some of the orange mixture.
6. Layer the phyllo pieces in a 9×13-inch baking dish, brushing each layer with the orange mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Kunafa with Cheese and Syrup
This traditional Middle Eastern dessert is a popular treat during special occasions and gatherings. The crispy, shredded phyllo pastry is filled with melted cheese, then drizzled with sweet syrup for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of kunafa (shredded phyllo pastry)
– 1 cup of Akkawi or Nabulsi cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup of sugar
– 1/2 cup of rose water syrup (or to taste)
– Vegetable oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with vegetable oil.
3. Spread half of the kunafa in the prepared dish, pressing it down evenly.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled cheese over the kunafa layer.
5. Top with the remaining kunafa, spreading it out to cover the cheese.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the kunafa is golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
8. Drizzle with rose water syrup while still warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ravani (Almond and Yogurt Cake)
A classic Greek dessert, Ravani is a moist and flavorful cake made with ground almonds, yogurt, and honey. This simple recipe yields a deliciously fragrant and tender treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ground almonds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ground almonds, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, eggs, honey, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Orange Cake with Syrup
A moist and flavorful cake infused with the brightness of oranges, perfect for serving warm or at room temperature with a drizzle of sweet syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
– Syrup ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup water, and 2 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, orange juice, and orange zest.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Meanwhile, prepare syrup by boiling sugar, water, and orange juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Remove cake from oven and let cool slightly. Drizzle with warm syrup.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pomegranate and Pistachio Phyllo Rolls
Pomegranate and Pistachio Phyllo Rolls: A Delicious Twist on Traditional Greek Pastry
These sweet and savory rolls are perfect for a unique dessert or snack. Flaky phyllo dough is filled with a tangy pomegranate mixture and crunchy pistachios, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Unroll the phyllo dough and cut into 4-inch squares.
3. In a bowl, mix together pomegranate seeds, sugar, honey, and salt.
4. Place a spoonful of the pomegranate mixture onto each phyllo square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle a few pistachios on top of the pomegranate mixture.
6. Fold the phyllo squares into triangles by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
7. Brush the tops with melted butter and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Date and Nut Balls
A sweet and crunchy treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the crunch of nuts, perfect for a quick snack or as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dates, rolled oats, and almonds.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the honey, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the honey mixture to the date mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None
Yogurt and Apricot Phyllo Parcels
These crispy phyllo parcels filled with a tangy yogurt and sweet apricot mixture make for a delightful snack or dessert. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a unique offering at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, apricots, honey, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Unroll the phyllo dough and cut into desired shapes ( triangles or squares work well).
4. Place a small spoonful of the yogurt-apricot mixture in the center of each piece of phyllo.
5. Fold the phyllo over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, pressing edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with a little water and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon and Olive Oil Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful lemon cake, infused with the richness of olive oil. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
4. Gradually pour dry ingredients into wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fig and Almond Tart with Honey Drizzle
A sweet and savory tart that combines the natural sweetness of figs with the nutty flavor of almonds, finished with a drizzle of golden honey. Perfect for a light dessert or as a snack to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Arrange figs and almonds in a pattern on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush with honey and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drizzle with additional honey before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 delicious Mediterranean dessert recipes! From classic baklava to creamy yogurt parfaits, and from crispy phyllo pastries to rich halva cakes, this collection has something for everyone. Discover traditional treats like Turkish delight, Greek loukoumades, and Lebanese mahalabia, or try your hand at innovative creations like pomegranate and pistachio rolls or fig and almond tart with honey drizzle. Whatever your taste buds crave, these recipes are sure to satisfy!
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