Indulge in the sweetness of Greece with these 19 irresistible dessert recipes that will transport you to the Mediterranean coast. From classic baklava and galaktoboureko custard pie to modern twists like kataifi shredded phyllo dessert and halva semolina dessert with almonds, this list has something for every sweet tooth.
Greek desserts are renowned for their bold flavors, crunchy textures, and generous use of honey, nuts, and spices. And what better way to experience the country’s rich culinary heritage than by trying your hand at making these authentic treats? Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a new dessert to impress your friends and family, this collection of recipes is sure to delight.
Baklava with honey and walnuts
This classic Middle Eastern pastry is a sweet and crunchy delight, filled with toasted walnuts and drizzled with warm honey. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this addictive treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. Layer phyllo and walnuts in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Mix sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt; sprinkle evenly over the top layer of phyllo.
5. Drizzle melted butter and honey over the top layer.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Galaktoboureko custard pie
Galaktoboureko, a traditional Greek custard pie wrapped in flaky phyllo and sweetened with honey, is a treat for the senses. This recipe combines creamy custard with crispy phyllo to create a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Honey for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, cream, milk, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into squares or rectangles, depending on desired shape.
5. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the custard mixture onto each phyllo square, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Fold phyllo over filling to form triangles or squares, pressing edges together to seal.
7. Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with honey drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loukoumades Greek honey puffs
Start your day or satisfy your sweet tooth with these crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside Greek honey puffs. Loukoumades are a traditional Greek dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a smooth dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until elastic.
4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of dough into the oil (about 1/4 cup each).
7. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil and serve warm with honey.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kataifi shredded phyllo dessert
This traditional Middle Eastern dessert is a sweet and crunchy delight, perfect for special occasions or everyday treats. Kataifi’s shredded phyllo pastry is filled with nuts and syrup, creating a delightful contrast of textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 package kataifi (shredded phyllo) (14 oz)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup rose water (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Unroll the kataifi and separate it into individual strips.
3. In a large bowl, mix together nuts, sugar, honey, rose water (if using), and salt.
4. Brush each phyllo strip with vegetable oil and place a few tablespoons of the nut mixture onto the center of each strip.
5. Roll up the phyllo tightly, applying gentle pressure to compress the filling.
6. Place rolled kataifi on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Revani semolina cake
Revani Semolina Cake: A Sweet Treat from the Mediterranean
Revani semolina cake is a classic Greek dessert that combines the comfort of warm spices with the sweetness of honey. This moist and fragrant cake is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together semolina flour, sugar, all-purpose flour, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, honey, cinnamon, and cloves.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Melomakarona honey spice cookies
These traditional Greek cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, filled with the warm aroma of honey and spices. Perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, mix honey, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Fold in the softened butter until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
7. Place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Kourabiedes almond shortbread cookies
These traditional Greek cookies are a staple during the holiday season, with their crumbly texture and sweet almond flavor. Kourabiedes are a must-have at any festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Stir in sliced almonds, baking powder, and salt.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Rizogalo creamy rice pudding
Rizogalo, a classic Greek dessert, is a comforting and creamy rice pudding that’s perfect for warm weather. This simple recipe yields a smooth and velvety treat that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the pudding has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter.
5. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Portokalopita orange phyllo cake
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of Greece with this traditional Portokalopita recipe, featuring a moist orange cake wrapped in crispy phyllo and topped with a sweet honey syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– Honey syrup (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, orange juice, and oil.
3. Add baking powder and salt; mix until combined.
4. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into 12 equal pieces.
5. Layer phyllo pieces in the prepared baking dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
6. Pour cake batter over phyllo layers.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Drizzle with honey syrup (see below) while still warm.
Honey Syrup:
– 1 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
Combine ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Karidopita walnut cake with syrup
Experience the rich flavors of Greece with this traditional Karidopita walnut cake, topped with a sweet and sticky syrup. This moist and aromatic dessert is perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Syrup ingredients: 1 cup honey, 1 cup water, 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, cinnamon, and walnuts. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup by combining honey, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Remove cake from oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. Drizzle with warm syrup and serve.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Halva semolina dessert with almonds
This classic Middle Eastern dessert is a sweet and nutty treat that’s perfect for any occasion. A combination of semolina, sugar, and syrup creates a rich and creamy base, topped with crunchy almonds for added texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine semolina, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the water, stirring until the mixture thickens to a paste.
3. Add rose water, if using.
4. Cook over low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Top with chopped almonds and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
8. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Diples fried pastry with honey
Diples are a traditional Italian dessert that combines crispy fried pastry with a drizzle of sweet honey. This recipe is a simple yet impressive treat to serve at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 cup honey
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. Roll out the puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut the pastry into long, thin strips.
4. Fry the pastry strips in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
5. Remove the fried pastry from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. In a small bowl, warm the honey by microwaving it for 10-15 seconds or by placing it near the stove.
7. Drizzle the warmed honey over the fried pastry strips and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes (including frying time)
Tsoureki sweet Easter bread
Tsoureki is a traditional Greek sweet bread that is typically baked during the Easter celebrations. This recipe yields a delicious and fragrant loaf adorned with a crimson egg symbolizing new life and renewal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon orange flower water (optional)
– Confectioner’s sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and yeast.
2. Gradually add sugar, lukewarm water, and oil. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down dough and shape into a long, thin loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bougatsa custard-filled pastry
This traditional Greek pastry is a delightful treat filled with creamy custard, wrapped in flaky phyllo and baked to perfection. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Place one sheet of phyllo dough on a flat surface and brush with melted butter.
5. Place 1/4 cup of the custard mixture along the center of the phyllo, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
6. Fold the phyllo over the filling, forming a triangle or rectangle shape, and press edges to seal.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ekmek kataifi shredded pastry dessert
A classic Turkish dessert, Ekmek Kataifi is a sweet treat made with shredded pastry, nuts, and honey. This recipe yields a crispy, nutty, and syrupy delight that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
• 1 package of kataifi (shredded phyllo dough)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Layer the shredded kataifi in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Sprinkle sugar, pistachios, and cinnamon evenly over the pastry.
4. Drizzle with honey and rose water (if using).
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pasteli sesame honey bars
Pasteli sesame honey bars are a traditional Greek treat that combines the nuttiness of sesame seeds with the sweetness of honey. These crispy bars are perfect for snacking or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sesame seeds, honey, sugar, and water. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and stir in salt. Let cool slightly.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to form a thin layer.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before breaking into bars.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fanouropita spiced raisin cake
This traditional Greek cake is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year. The combination of warm spices, sweet raisins, and caramelized sugar creates a delightful aroma that will fill your home with warmth and comfort.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup raisins
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in raisins.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Koulourakia butter cookies with sesame
These crumbly, buttery cookies are a staple of Greek bakeries and perfect for dunking in tea or coffee. With the added nutty flavor of sesame seeds, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour, mixing until just combined.
5. Stir in sesame seeds and salt.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Yield: About 20 cookies
Glyka tou koutaliou spoon sweets
This classic spoon sweet recipe is a staple of Greek cuisine, made with quince and sugar. Glyka tou koutaliou is a beloved treat that’s perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 large quince, peeled, cored, and chopped
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped quince, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked quince from the syrup, leaving it in a single layer on a plate or tray.
4. Allow the quince to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet side of Greece with these 19 irresistible dessert recipes! From classic baklava and galaktoboureko custard pie, to innovative kataifi shredded phyllo desserts and creamy rice pudding, this collection has something for every taste. Discover traditional treats like melomakarona honey spice cookies and kourabiedes almond shortbread cookies, as well as unique twists on old favorites. With a range of ingredients and cooking methods, these authentic Greek desserts are sure to transport you to the sun-kissed Mediterranean.
