As you sit down to enjoy a decadent dessert, have you ever wondered how people in ancient civilizations like Rome satisfied their sweet tooth? The Romans were known for their love of good food and drink, and their desserts were no exception. In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey back in time to explore 18 delicious ancient Roman desserts that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of ancient Rome.
From honey-infused treats like Honey and Sesame Seed Cakes and Mulsum (Honeyed Wine Dessert), to sweet and savory dishes like Libum (Sweet Cheese Bread) and Patina de Piris (Pear Custard), these recipes are sure to delight anyone with a sweet tooth. So grab your mortar and pestle, and get ready to indulge in the sweet flavors of ancient Rome!
Honey and Sesame Seed Cakes
These tender cakes are infused with the warmth of honey and the crunch of sesame seeds, making them a perfect snack or accompaniment to your favorite cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until smooth. Add honey and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in sesame seeds.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of batter onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Globi (Cheese and Honey Balls)
Globi are a classic Mediterranean treat that combines the richness of cheese with the sweetness of honey. These bite-sized balls are perfect for snacking, entertaining, or as a quick addition to your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 250g crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large bowl, combine feta cheese, honey, and flour. Mix until well combined.
3. Add the egg and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the Globi on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each ball.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Libum (Sweet Cheese Bread)
A traditional Italian sweet bread, Libum is a delightful treat that combines the richness of cheese with the warmth of spices. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful loaf perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm milk
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add sugar, flour, salt, and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
- Punch down the dough and mix in Parmesan cheese, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Shape into a round loaf.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mustacei (Grape Must Cookies)
These chewy cookies are infused with the sweetness of grape must, a traditional ingredient from Italy. Perfect for snacking or serving as a dessert, they’re easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grape must (or substitute with concord grape juice)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in grape must and egg.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Patina de Piris (Pear Custard)
A classic Spanish dessert, Patina de Piris is a creamy and sweet pear custard that’s perfect for special occasions. This rich dessert is sure to impress your guests with its velvety texture and caramelized pears.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, combine the sliced pears, sugar, and 1/4 cup of water. Cook over medium heat until the pears are tender and caramelized.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the cooked pear mixture to the cream mixture and stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the custard is set and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savillum (Roman Cheesecake)
A rich and creamy cheesecake with a delicate texture, Savillum was a popular Roman dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 egg yolk
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, honey, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
3. Add chopped almonds and lemon juice; mix well.
4. Beat in the egg yolk until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture into a buttered 8-inch springform pan.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let it cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Puls Punica (Punic Porridge with Honey)
In ancient times, the Phoenicians enjoyed a warm and comforting porridge made from wheat, honey, and spices. This traditional recipe is still savored today, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole wheat berries
– 2 cups water or milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wheat berries and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the wheat berries, then place them in a medium saucepan with 2 cups of fresh water or milk.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the porridge has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in honey, cinnamon, and salt. Serve warm, garnished with a drizzle of extra honey if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes
Aliter Dulcia (Spiced Honey Cakes)
These ancient Roman treats are a perfect blend of warm spices and sweet honey, perfect for a snack or dessert. With just a few ingredients, you can create these delectable cakes in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a baking sheet or individual cake molds.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, honey, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the milk and mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet or into molds.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cakes are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Enjoy your warm and aromatic Aliter Dulcia!
Date and Nut Rolls
Sweet and Nutty Treats: Date and Nut Rolls Recipe
These soft and chewy rolls are packed with the natural sweetness of dates, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these date and nut rolls will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped dates, oats, brown sugar, walnuts, cinnamon, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by mixing it with warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or strips.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Mulsum (Honeyed Wine Dessert)
Mulsum is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that combines the richness of honey with the warmth of wine. This sweet treat is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rose water (optional)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the white wine and honey. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey dissolves.
2. Add the rose water, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Stir to combine.
3. Continue heating for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Serve Mulsum chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pine Nut and Honey Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the nutty flavor of pine nuts with the warmth of honey, perfect for a dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°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. In a small bowl, mix together pine nuts and honey. Spread mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush egg wash over the pastry to give it a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fig and Walnut Pastries
These sweet and savory pastries are a perfect combination of fresh figs and crunchy walnuts, all wrapped up in flaky pastry. Perfect as a breakfast or brunch treat, or as a sweet snack to brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together figs, walnuts, honey, and salt.
4. Spoon the fig-walnut mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with a little water and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quince and Honey Preserve
A sweet and tangy preserve made with the rare quince fruit, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a glaze for meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups quince flesh (about 1 large fruit)
– 1 cup honey
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Wash and dice the quince flesh into small pieces.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the quince, honey, sugar, and water.
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the quince is tender and the mixture has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice if desired (for added brightness).
5. Let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweetened Barley Pudding
Sweetened Barley Pudding Recipe
A warm and comforting dessert made with barley, sugar, eggs, and spices, perfect for a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the barley and water or milk to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the barley is tender.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Add the egg mixture to the cooked barley and stir until well combined.
6. Pour into a buttered baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pudding is set and lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rose Petal and Honey Delight
This sweet treat combines the subtle flavor of rose petals with the warmth of honey, creating a delightful dessert perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a unique and flavorful delight that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rose petals (dried)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon water
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the dried rose petals, sugar, and 1 tablespoon of water. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a simmer.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
4. Stir in the honey until fully dissolved.
5. Add the lemon juice and stir well.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to settle.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Almond and Honey Biscuits
Sweet and Crunchy Almond and Honey Biscuits Recipe
These buttery biscuits are infused with the warmth of honey and crunch of almonds, making them a perfect treat for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work it into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form.
4. Stir in honey and almonds.
5. Beat in egg until mixture forms a sticky dough.
6. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Roll out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each biscuit.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Apple and Honey Compote
This sweet and tangy compote is a perfect accompaniment to yogurt, oatmeal, or even as a topping for pork chops or pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/4 cup pure honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced apples, honey, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pomegranate and Honey Sorbet
Experience the sweet and tangy flavors of pomegranate and honey in this refreshing sorbet recipe, perfect for warm weather. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this fruity delight in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pomegranate juice, sugar, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar has dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Freeze the sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes + chilling time
Summary
Step into the world of ancient Roman cuisine with these 18 delicious dessert recipes. From sweet treats like Honey and Sesame Seed Cakes and Libum (Sweet Cheese Bread) to creamy indulgences like Savillum (Roman Cheesecake), you’ll be transported back in time. Discover traditional desserts like Puls Punica (Punic Porridge with Honey) and Mulsum (Honeyed Wine Dessert), as well as sweet surprises like Date and Nut Rolls and Fig and Walnut Pastries. Get ready to indulge in the rich culinary heritage of ancient Rome, reimagined for modern tastes.
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