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If you’ve ever dreamed of indulging in a treat that feels both luxurious and timeless, Turkish delight is exactly that. Known for its delicate texture, fragrant flavors, and dusting of powdered sugar, this centuries-old confection has captured hearts (and taste buds) around the world.
Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or revisiting a nostalgic favorite, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Turkish delight and how to make Turkish Delight or lokum.
Table of Contents
What Is Turkish Delight?
Turkish delight, traditionally called lokum, is a soft, chewy candy made from sugar, starch, and flavorings. I add gelatin to mine which adds a more jelly-like texture. Its texture sits somewhere between a jelly and a gummy, with a melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes it irresistible.
It’s often flavored with ingredients like:
- Rosewater
- Lemon
- Orange blossom
- Pistachios
- Hazelnuts
Lately, I have been experimenting with citric acid in my Turkish Delight, which adds some tang to the sweetness. Turkish Delight (Lokum) is typically cut into small cubes and coated in powdered sugar or coconut flakes to prevent sticking. I have also seen Turkish Delight coated in dried rose petals.
If you would like a good ready-made Turkish delight assortment, you can try the assortment by Zaitoune by clicking the link here. You can also check out my review of their Turkish delight here.
Why Turkish Delight Remains Popular Today
Turkish delight has stood the test of time because of the movie The Chronicles of Narnia: the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. In the scene where Edmond asks Jadis, the white witch, for Turkish delight as snack, made many a kid like myself at the time, want to make and taste Turkish delight.
So Turkish delight (lokum) offers more than just sweetness—it delivers an experience. From its rich history to its elegant flavors, it’s a confection that feels both nostalgic and sophisticated.
Lokum is great for gifting, serving it at a gathering, or enjoying it with your afternoon tea. Turkish delight adds a touch of tradition and indulgence to any moment.
However, I have not seen many recipes for Turkish Delight (Lokum).
Keep reading to learn how to make Turkish Delight.
5 Popular Types of Turkish Delight
1. Rose Turkish Delight
The classic version, infused with rosewater and often tinted pink. This is the version the recipe card below shows how to make.
2. Pistachio Turkish Delight
Packed with crunchy pistachios for a rich, nutty flavor. This is one of my favorite flavors.
3. Lemon Turkish Delight
A bright and refreshing option with a citrusy zing.
4. Chocolate-Covered Turkish Delight
A modern twist that combines traditional flavors with a chocolate coating.
5. Coconut Turkish Delight
Rolled in shredded coconut for added sweetness and texture. This one is all about the texture.
If you would like to try an assortment that has many of these flavors, you can check out Zaitoune Turkish Delight Assortment Pack.
Tips for Buying the Best Turkish Delight
When shopping for Turkish delight, look for:
- Freshness (soft, not overly stiff)
- Natural flavors (real nuts, authentic extracts)
- Minimal artificial coloring
Authentic Turkish delight should feel tender and fragrant—not rubbery or overly sweet. If you want to check out my review of Zaitoune Turkish Delight, you can click here. They make authentic Turkish delight and are very good if you do not want to make your own.
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The Best Turkish Delight
Video
Equipment
- hand whisk
Ingredients
Candy
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 2¼ cups water
- juice of 1 medium lemon
- ½ cup corn starch
- 1 package plain gelatin 3oz
- 1 tsp rose water or other flavoring
- 3 drop red food coloring
Dusting
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Dusting
- To a medium bowl combine ½ cup of corn starch and ½ cup of powdered sugar. Wisk together thoroughly.
- Line baking pan with parchment paper, then coat with cornstarch powdered sugar mixture generously. Set aside.
Candy
- To sauce pan over medium heat, add sugar, 1¾ cup water, lemon juice. whisk until combined.
- Cooking the mixture, stirring until sugar dissolves and mixture is clear.
- While mixture is simmering, to a separate medium bowl combine ½ cup cornstarch and the remaining ½ cup water. Mix to form a slurry.
- To the now clear sugar mixture, slowly whisk in the slurry. Turn heat to medium high.
- Add package of plain gelatin, whisking vigorously until gelatin melts.
- Now heat mixture while stirring constantly until mixture hits 230℉. Mixture should take on a darker amber color.
- Once at temp, add rose water and food coloring. Stir until mixture is uniform and at the desired color.
- Pour hot candy into prepared baking pan. Let sit on counter top covered to cool and firm up over night.
- The next day, dust a cutting board with some of your cornstarch powdered sugar mixture and turn candy out on to surface. Remove parchment paper and sprinkle cornstarch mixture over top of candy.
- Cut candy into bite sized pieces, making sure to add more the cornstarch mixture as needed.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
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