Greek cuisine is renowned for its rich history, vibrant flavors, and the use of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Among its many culinary delights, Greek desserts hold a special place, offering a delightful combination of sweetness, spices, and textures that can satisfy any sweet tooth.
From honey-drenched pastries to nutty confections and fruity cakes, Greek desserts reflect the country’s diverse cultural influences and centuries-old traditions.
In this article, we have curated a collection of 25+ Greek dessert recipes that will transport you straight to the sun-soaked Mediterranean.
Whether you’re planning a Greek-themed dinner party or simply looking to expand your dessert repertoire, these recipes will introduce you to the irresistible flavors of Greece.
Get ready to indulge in a sweet journey filled with aromatic spices, crunchy nuts, and luscious syrups.
25+ Easy and Delicious Greek Dessert Recipes to Make at Home
Exploring Greek desserts is like taking a delicious journey through Greece’s rich culinary heritage. Each recipe tells a story, from the festive Melomakarona enjoyed during Christmas to the crispy Diples served at weddings.
The use of simple yet flavorful ingredients such as honey, nuts, spices, and phyllo dough creates desserts that are not only delicious but also deeply rooted in tradition.
Whether you are new to Greek cuisine or a seasoned fan, these 25+ Greek dessert recipes offer something for everyone.
They are perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party, celebrating special occasions, or simply treating yourself to a taste of Greece at home.
So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy baking and savoring these delightful Greek sweets. Kali orexi!
Baklava
Baklava is a beloved Greek dessert known for its layers of crispy phyllo pastry, filled with a fragrant mixture of nuts, spices, and sweetened with a luscious honey syrup. This dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes with its beautifully golden, flaky layers.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of phyllo dough (16 oz)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 cup almonds, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Mix the chopped walnuts, almonds, cinnamon, and cloves in a bowl.
- Unroll the phyllo dough and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
- Place two sheets of phyllo in the baking dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat this process until you have 8 sheets layered.
- Spread a thin layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo.
- Layer 2 more sheets of phyllo, brush with butter, and sprinkle with nuts. Continue this layering process until all the nuts are used.
- Top with 8 layers of phyllo, buttering each layer.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes.
- Bake for 50 minutes or until the baklava is golden and crisp.
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, honey, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour the hot syrup over the baklava as soon as it comes out of the oven.
- Allow the baklava to cool completely before serving.
Baklava is a quintessential Greek dessert that combines the crunch of phyllo pastry with the rich, aromatic filling of nuts and spices, all enveloped in a sweet honey syrup. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a delightful end to any meal. Enjoy the layers of flavor and texture that make baklava an unforgettable treat.
Galaktoboureko
Galaktoboureko is a traditional Greek dessert featuring layers of crispy phyllo dough filled with a creamy, custard-like semolina filling, all soaked in a fragrant syrup. It’s a luxurious dessert that balances the crispiness of the phyllo with the smooth, rich filling.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of phyllo dough (16 oz)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 6 cups milk
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Syrup:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 piece of lemon peel
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Gradually whisk in the semolina, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs (beaten), vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Unroll the phyllo dough and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
- Place two sheets of phyllo in the baking dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat this process until you have 8 sheets layered.
- Pour the semolina mixture over the phyllo layers.
- Top with 8 layers of phyllo, buttering each layer.
- Using a sharp knife, score the top layer of phyllo into squares or diamonds.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the phyllo is golden and crisp.
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, honey, cinnamon stick, and lemon peel. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the cinnamon stick and lemon peel, and pour the hot syrup over the Galaktoboureko as soon as it comes out of the oven.
- Allow the dessert to cool completely before serving.
Galaktoboureko is a rich and indulgent Greek dessert that combines the crispiness of phyllo dough with a creamy semolina custard. The addition of a fragrant syrup enhances the flavors and adds a delightful sweetness. Serve this dessert at your next gathering and watch it become a favorite among your guests.
Loukoumades
Loukoumades are bite-sized Greek doughnuts that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are traditionally soaked in honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon and nuts, making them an irresistible treat that is perfect for sharing.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 1/4 cups warm water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Syrup:
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 piece of lemon peel
Toppings:
- Ground cinnamon
- Chopped walnuts or pistachios
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Gradually add the warm water and mix until a smooth batter forms. Cover and let it rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- In a deep saucepan, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on all sides.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- In a saucepan, combine the honey, water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and lemon peel. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the cinnamon stick and lemon peel.
- Dip the fried doughnuts in the hot syrup, then place them on a serving plate.
- Sprinkle with ground cinnamon and chopped nuts.
Loukoumades are a delightful Greek dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy doughnuts soaked in honey syrup, with a hint of cinnamon and the crunch of nuts, makes them an irresistible treat. Share them with family and friends and enjoy the sweet taste of Greece.
Kataifi
Kataifi is a traditional Greek dessert made with shredded phyllo dough, filled with a mixture of nuts and spices, and soaked in a fragrant syrup. The unique texture of the shredded phyllo creates a crispy exterior, while the syrup adds a sweet and sticky finish, making this dessert an unforgettable experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 package kataifi dough (16 oz)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 cup almonds, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Mix the chopped walnuts, almonds, cinnamon, and cloves in a bowl.
- Carefully separate and fluff the kataifi dough.
- Take a small portion of the dough, about 2-3 tablespoons, and lay it flat.
- Place a tablespoon of the nut mixture at one end of the dough and roll it up tightly.
- Place the rolled kataifi in the baking dish and repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
- Brush the tops of the rolls generously with melted butter.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, honey, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour the hot syrup over the kataifi as soon as it comes out of the oven.
- Allow the kataifi to cool completely before serving.
Kataifi is a delightful and visually stunning Greek dessert that impresses with its unique texture and rich flavors. The combination of crispy, shredded phyllo, aromatic nut filling, and sweet syrup makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy the intricate layers and the satisfying crunch of this traditional delicacy.
Melomakarona
Melomakarona are traditional Greek Christmas cookies made with flour, olive oil, and honey. These cookies are flavored with orange zest and spices, then soaked in a honey syrup and sprinkled with crushed walnuts, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
Syrup:
- 1 cup honey
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 piece of lemon peel
Topping:
- 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, semolina, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and cloves.
- In another bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vegetable oil, orange juice, sugar, brandy, and orange zest until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Take small portions of the dough and shape them into oval cookies.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- In a saucepan, combine the honey, water, sugar, cinnamon stick, and lemon peel. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Dip the hot cookies in the syrup, then place them on a serving platter.
- Sprinkle the cookies with the chopped walnuts while still warm.
Melomakarona are a festive and aromatic Greek cookie that brings the warmth of the holiday season to your table. The combination of orange, cinnamon, and honey creates a deliciously spiced treat that is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy these traditional cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful experience.
Ravani
Ravani is a traditional Greek semolina cake that is soaked in a lemon-flavored syrup, making it moist and fragrant. This dessert is simple yet elegant, with a delicate texture and a sweet, citrusy flavor that is sure to please any palate.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Syrup:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 piece of lemon peel
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the semolina, flour, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the egg mixture, mixing well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, honey, lemon peel, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour the hot syrup over the cake as soon as it comes out of the oven.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.
Ravani is a classic Greek semolina cake that is simple to make yet delivers a wonderfully moist and flavorful dessert. The lemon syrup adds a refreshing citrus note that perfectly complements the rich, buttery cake. Serve this delightful dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Bougatsa
Bougatsa is a beloved Greek pastry made with layers of crispy phyllo dough filled with a rich and creamy custard. Sprinkled with powdered sugar and cinnamon, this dessert is a delightful treat that combines a crunchy exterior with a smooth and flavorful filling. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, Bougatsa is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 1 package phyllo dough (16 oz)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup semolina
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Ground cinnamon (for dusting)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm.
- Gradually add the semolina and sugar, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract, then slowly add them to the semolina mixture, stirring constantly until well combined.
- Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the phyllo sheets in the baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
- Pour the custard filling over the phyllo.
- Cover with the remaining phyllo sheets, again brushing each sheet with melted butter.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar and cinnamon before serving.
Bougatsa is a delightful pastry that combines the textures of crispy phyllo and creamy custard. The sweet aroma of vanilla and cinnamon makes this dessert irresistible. Enjoy Bougatsa warm or at room temperature, and savor the flavors of this traditional Greek treat.
Loukoumades
Loukoumades are small, fluffy Greek doughnuts soaked in a honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon and nuts. These bite-sized treats are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, offering a deliciously sweet and satisfying experience that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup water
- Ground cinnamon (for sprinkling)
- Chopped walnuts (for sprinkling)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add the warm milk, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture, mixing until smooth.
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Using a spoon, drop small portions of the dough into the hot oil, frying until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the loukoumades from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- In a saucepan, combine the honey and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
- Dip the fried loukoumades in the hot honey syrup, then place them on a serving plate.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and chopped walnuts.
Loukoumades are a delightful Greek dessert that is both simple and delicious. These honey-soaked doughnuts are perfect for sharing with friends and family, making any gathering a little sweeter. Enjoy the crispy, fluffy texture and the rich flavor of this traditional treat.
Galaktoboureko
Galaktoboureko is a classic Greek dessert that features layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with a creamy semolina custard, all soaked in a fragrant syrup. This rich and indulgent pastry is a true testament to the flavors and textures of Greek cuisine, offering a delightful combination of crunch and creaminess.
Ingredients:
- 1 package phyllo dough (16 oz)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 5 cups whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup semolina
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Lemon zest (from one lemon)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm.
- Gradually add the semolina and sugar, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and vanilla extract, then slowly add them to the semolina mixture, stirring constantly until well combined.
- Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the phyllo sheets in the baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
- Pour the custard filling over the phyllo.
- Cover with the remaining phyllo sheets, again brushing each sheet with melted butter.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
- In a saucepan, combine the water, sugar, honey, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour the hot syrup over the Galaktoboureko as soon as it comes out of the oven.
- Let it cool completely before serving.
Galaktoboureko is a luxurious Greek dessert that showcases the perfect harmony of crispy phyllo and creamy custard. The fragrant lemon syrup adds a refreshing touch, making each bite a delightful experience. Serve this dessert at special occasions or as a treat for yourself and enjoy the rich flavors of this traditional pastry.
Kourabiedes
Kourabiedes are traditional Greek almond shortbread cookies, known for their rich, buttery flavor and crumbly texture. These cookies are often enjoyed during festive occasions and are generously dusted with powdered sugar, giving them a snowy, festive appearance. Their melt-in-the-mouth goodness makes them a favorite treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup blanched almonds, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, and mix well.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped almonds.
- Roll the dough into small balls or crescent shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool slightly, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm.
- Once completely cooled, dust them again with more powdered sugar before serving.
Kourabiedes are a delightful addition to any dessert table, especially during the holiday season. Their rich almond flavor and buttery texture, combined with a generous coating of powdered sugar, make them irresistible. Serve these traditional cookies with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect festive treat.
Diples
Diples are a traditional Greek dessert made from thin sheets of dough that are fried until crispy and then dipped in a honey syrup. Often sprinkled with cinnamon and chopped nuts, these crispy treats are a favorite during festive celebrations and weddings, symbolizing joy and prosperity.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon brandy
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- Ground cinnamon
- Chopped walnuts
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, orange juice, brandy, and vanilla extract together.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Divide the dough into small balls and roll each one out into a thin sheet.
- Cut the dough into strips or squares.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the dough pieces until golden and crispy.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In a saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
- Dip the fried dough in the honey syrup, then place them on a serving platter.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and chopped walnuts.
Diples are a delightful and festive Greek dessert that offers a satisfying crunch and a sweet, honey-flavored experience. The combination of crispy dough, fragrant honey syrup, and the warm spices of cinnamon and walnuts makes them a perfect treat for celebrations and gatherings. Enjoy these traditional pastries with friends and family for a taste of Greek hospitality.
Portokalopita
Portokalopita, or Greek Orange Phyllo Cake, is a moist and flavorful dessert made with layers of phyllo dough, infused with a rich orange syrup. This cake is incredibly aromatic, combining the zesty freshness of oranges with the delicate layers of phyllo, resulting in a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 package phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed and crumpled
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- Zest of 2 oranges
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
Syrup:
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, beat the yogurt, sugar, and oil until well combined.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract, baking powder, orange zest, and orange juice.
- Gently fold in the crumpled phyllo dough, ensuring it is well incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and set.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup by combining the water, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the cake from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over it.
- Allow the cake to absorb the syrup and cool completely before serving.
Portokalopita is a wonderfully aromatic and moist cake that brings the vibrant flavors of oranges to your table. The combination of crispy phyllo and rich orange syrup makes each bite a delightful experience. This Greek dessert is perfect for any occasion and will leave your guests wanting more. Enjoy a slice of this refreshing and zesty treat!
Melomakarona
Melomakarona are traditional Greek Christmas cookies that are incredibly flavorful and aromatic. Made with a blend of spices, orange zest, and honey syrup, these cookies are often topped with chopped walnuts for a delightful crunch. They are soft, moist, and perfect for the holiday season, embodying the warmth and festivity of Greek celebrations.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fine semolina
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup brandy
- Zest of 2 oranges
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Syrup:
- 1 cup honey
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
Topping:
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- Ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, semolina, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and cloves.
- In another bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vegetable oil, orange juice, brandy, sugar, and orange zest until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Shape the dough into oval cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the cookies are baking, prepare the syrup by combining honey, sugar, water, and a cinnamon stick in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- When the cookies are done baking, dip them in the hot syrup for a few seconds and place them on a serving platter.
- Sprinkle with chopped walnuts and a bit of ground cinnamon.
Melomakarona are a delightful holiday treat that captures the essence of Greek Christmas traditions. The combination of warm spices, honey syrup, and crunchy walnuts makes these cookies irresistible. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea, and share the festive spirit with family and friends.
Baklava
Baklava is a rich and decadent Greek dessert made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and a sweet honey syrup. This classic treat is known for its flaky texture and the aromatic blend of cinnamon and cloves. Baklava is often served during special occasions and celebrations, bringing a touch of elegance to any dessert table.
Ingredients:
- 1 package phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed
- 2 cups chopped walnuts
- 1 cup chopped pistachios
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine the chopped nuts, cinnamon, cloves, and sugar.
- Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the phyllo sheets in the baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
- Spread the nut mixture evenly over the phyllo.
- Cover with the remaining phyllo sheets, brushing each with melted butter.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the baklava is baking, prepare the syrup by combining water, sugar, honey, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and a cinnamon stick in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour the hot syrup over the baklava as soon as it comes out of the oven.
- Let the baklava cool completely before serving.
Baklava is a timeless Greek dessert that offers a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and nutty flavors. The crispy layers of phyllo and the rich syrup make each bite a luxurious experience. Serve baklava at special gatherings or as a treat for yourself, and enjoy the indulgence of this classic pastry.
Ravani
Ravani is a traditional Greek semolina cake soaked in a light lemon syrup. This cake is wonderfully moist and has a delicate, grainy texture from the semolina. The addition of lemon zest and syrup gives it a refreshing and aromatic flavor, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- Zest of 2 lemons
Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the yogurt, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, sift together the semolina, flour, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the lemon zest.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup by combining water, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the cake from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over it.
- Allow the cake to absorb the syrup and cool completely before serving.
Ravani is a delightful Greek dessert that combines the grainy texture of semolina with the refreshing flavor of lemon. This moist and aromatic cake is perfect for any occasion, offering a light and satisfying end to a meal. Serve Ravani with a cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy the simple yet elegant flavors of this traditional treat.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!
