Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, nutty, and utterly delicious flavors! Sesame halva, a traditional Middle Eastern treat, has been elevated to new heights with these 18 creative recipes. From classic combinations to innovative twists, each recipe is a masterclass in balancing the richness of tahini with the perfect blend of sweet and savory.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through flavors like pistachio-crusted halva, matcha-green tea-infused bars, and even gingerbread-spiced treats. Whether you’re a fan of bright citrus notes or deep spices, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creamy sesame halva recipes with a twist.
Stay tuned to discover the perfect blend of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds singing!
Classic Tahini Halva with Pistachios
Experience the creamy richness of Middle Eastern cuisine with this traditional recipe for Tahini Halva, infused with the nutty flavor of pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tahini paste
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine tahini paste, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the water while whisking until smooth and creamy.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pistachios and lemon juice.
5. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish or individual serving cups.
6. Allow to cool to room temperature before refrigerating until chilled.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Enjoy your creamy and nutty Tahini Halva with Pistachios!
Chocolate-Dipped Sesame Halva Bars
Elevate your snack game with these rich and nutty halva bars, smothered in velvety chocolate and sprinkled with crunchy sesame seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Add halva and mix until well combined.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Pour melted chocolate over cooled halva mixture. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and salt.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. Cut into bars.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orange Blossom and Rosewater Halva
A fragrant and creamy halva infused with the sweet aroma of orange blossom and rosewater, perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup golden syrup
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– 1 teaspoon rosewater
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the golden syrup, heavy cream, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the halva thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the orange blossom water, rosewater, and salt.
5. Pour the halva into a shallow dish and let cool to room temperature.
6. If desired, sprinkle with chopped pistachios before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Enjoy your fragrant Orange Blossom and Rosewater Halva!
Crunchy Almond and Sesame Halva
Crunchy Almond and Sesame Halva Recipe
Halva is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with ground sesame seeds, but this recipe adds a crunchy twist by incorporating almonds and a hint of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sesame seeds and sugar.
2. Add the melted butter and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns golden brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in chopped almonds, ground cardamom, and salt.
4. Pour the mixture onto a lightly greased surface or a silicone mat.
5. Allow to cool and set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
6. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes (including cooling time)
Coconut and Sesame Halva Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the richness of coconut and sesame with the comforting warmth of halva, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup halva
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together halva, shredded coconut, and tahini until well combined.
2. Add honey and salt; stir until smooth.
3. Stir in sesame seeds and chopped pistachios (if using).
4. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None required, as these bite-sized treats are best served chilled.
Cardamom-Spiced Halva with Dates
Cardamom-Spiced Halwa with Dates Recipe
Halwa, a popular Indian dessert, gets a unique twist with the addition of cardamom and dates. This sweet treat is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split yellow moong lentils (halwa)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
– 1 cup chopped dates
– 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and blend the lentils with 2 cups of fresh water until smooth.
3. Heat the ghee or butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the cardamom powder and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the blended lentil mixture to the pan and stir constantly for 5-7 minutes, or until the halwa thickens slightly.
5. Stir in the chopped dates and sugar.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the dates are well coated with the halwa.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Sesame Halva
This Japanese-Indian fusion dessert combines the bright green tea flavor of matcha with the nutty richness of sesame halva, creating a unique and delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon matcha powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sesame seeds, sugar, and water.
3. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in matcha powder, salt, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the mixture into a lined or greased 8-inch square baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Vanilla Bean and Honey Halva
A creamy and sweet dessert that combines the richness of halva with the warmth of vanilla and honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva (chickpea flour-based)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the halva and softened butter until well combined.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add the honey, mixing until fully incorporated.
4. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
Serving Suggestion:
Serve chilled, garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and visual appeal.
Turmeric and Black Sesame Halva
This recipe combines the warm, comforting flavors of turmeric and black sesame to create a unique and delicious halva.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chickpea flour and water. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add the turmeric powder and whisk to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the halva thickens and forms a ball.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the black sesame seeds and salt.
5. If desired, add honey or maple syrup and stir to combine.
6. Pour the halva onto a plate or tray and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Zest and Poppy Seed Halva
Brighten up your day with this citrusy twist on the classic Indian dessert, halva! This recipe combines the sweetness of semolina with the tanginess of lemon zest and the crunch of poppy seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine semolina and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes away from the sides of the pan.
2. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda, lemon zest, and salt.
3. Add melted ghee or butter and mix until well combined.
4. Stir in poppy seeds.
5. Pour the halva onto a greased plate or tray. Let it cool to room temperature.
6. Dust with confectioner’s sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Espresso-Infused Sesame Halva
A rich and nutty halva infused with the deep flavor of espresso, perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sesame seeds, sugar, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, espresso powder, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
5. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Halva with Tahini
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this unique dessert that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the creaminess of tahini. This halva is a delightful twist on traditional Middle Eastern sweets.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva (available at Middle Eastern markets or online)
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Chopped pistachios or almonds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together tahini, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
2. Cut the halva into small cubes and place them in a separate bowl.
3. Add the honey to the tahini mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Pour the honey-tahini mixture over the halva cubes and stir until well combined.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and garnish with chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Peanut Butter and Sesame Halva Swirl
Experience the perfect harmony of creamy peanut butter and nutty sesame halva in this unique swirl dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine halva, peanut butter, and honey. Heat over low heat, stirring until smooth.
2. Remove from heat and stir in salt and heavy cream until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a serving dish or individual cups.
4. Use a spatula or knife to create a swirl design on top of the mixture.
5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is no-bake!
Fig and Walnut Stuffed Halva
This classic Middle Eastern dessert gets a delicious twist with the addition of sweet figs and crunchy walnuts. The result is a unique and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block halva (about 1 pound)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the halva into small cubes and place them in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped figs and walnuts.
3. Add the honey and rose water (if using) to the fig-walnut mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Fold the fig-walnut mixture into the halva cubes until they’re evenly coated.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready to go straight from the mixing bowl.
Sea Salt and Dark Chocolate Halva
Savor the rich flavors of sea salt and dark chocolate in this simple yet indulgent halva recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup golden sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup light tahini
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sesame seeds, tahini, sugar, and sea salt.
3. Add the dark chocolate chips and stir until well combined.
4. Stir in lemon juice and heavy cream or whole milk until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
5. Pour the halva mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lavender and White Chocolate Halva
Combine the subtle sweetness of white chocolate with the calming essence of lavender for a unique and delightful halva experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sesame seeds, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and stir in rose water (if using) and lavender buds. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Fold the melted white chocolate into the sesame seed mixture until well combined.
6. Pour the halva mixture onto a parchment-lined surface and let it set at room temperature for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (for the sesame seed mixture)
Gingerbread-Spiced Sesame Halva
This unique dessert combines the nutty flavor of sesame halva with the warm, spicy flavors of gingerbread. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to spice up your dessert routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sesame paste
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sesame paste, sugar, corn syrup, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
2. Add the water and whisk until smooth.
3. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter.
5. Pour into a shallow dish and let cool to room temperature.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Enjoy your warm and aromatic gingerbread-spiced sesame halva!
Raspberry Swirl Tahini Halva
A sweet and tangy twist on the classic Middle Eastern dessert, this Raspberry Swirl Tahini Halva combines creamy halva with the flavors of fresh raspberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tahini
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine tahini, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and turns golden brown.
2. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda and vanilla extract.
3. Pour halva onto a lightly oiled surface and smooth out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Spoon pureed raspberries on top of the halva, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Use a spatula or knife to create a swirly pattern with the raspberry topping.
6. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to take your halva game to the next level with these 18 creamy sesame halva recipes featuring a twist! From classic tahini halva with pistachios to matcha green tea sesame halva and even espresso-infused sesame halva, there’s something for everyone. Try adding unique flavors like orange blossom, rosewater, or cardamom to give your halva an exotic flair. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
