Indulge in the sweet and exotic flavors of the Mediterranean with these 19 exquisite desserts that will transport you to a world of olive groves, sun-kissed hillsides, and warm hospitality. From classic treats like baklava and Turkish delight to innovative creations featuring fresh berries and pistachios, each recipe is a masterclass in combining the region’s iconic ingredients with creative flair. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the Mediterranean’s most treasured desserts, where honeyed sweetness meets the warmth of spices and the freshness of citrus. Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth and discover new flavors that will leave you feeling like you’re sipping coffee at a bustling café in Athens or wandering through the spice markets of Istanbul.
Baklava with Honey and Walnuts
A classic Middle Eastern dessert, Baklava is a rich and flavorful treat that combines honey-glazed phyllo pastry with crunchy walnuts. This recipe yields a sweet and nutty masterpiece perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Unroll the phyllo dough and cut it into four equal pieces.
3. In a bowl, mix together walnuts, honey, sugar, rose water (if using), cinnamon, and cardamom.
4. Layer the phyllo sheets with the walnut mixture, starting and ending with phyllo.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Let cool before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek Yogurt Cheesecake with Fresh Berries
This creamy cheesecake combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the sweetness of fresh berries, making it a perfect dessert for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in yogurt and vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Let cool completely before serving with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Orange and Almond Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the sweetness of orange with the crunch of almonds, making it perfect for a special occasion or everyday treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup (30g) sliced almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, orange zest, and orange juice.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in sliced almonds.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkish Delight with Rosewater
A classic Turkish delight infused with the sweet and floral essence of rosewater, perfect for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sugar
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon rosewater
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and cornstarch. Add water and whisk until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in rosewater and lemon juice.
4. Pour onto a greased surface or silicone mat. Let cool and set for about 30 minutes.
5. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to shape into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes
Note: If the mixture becomes too thick, you can add a little more water. If it’s still too runny, cook for another minute and test again.
Loukoumades with Honey and Cinnamon
Loukoumades are traditional Greek doughnuts that are deep-fried to a crispy perfection and then drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. This recipe combines the classic flavors of Greece in a simple and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey, for drizzling
– Ground cinnamon, for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and yeast.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic.
4. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll out the dough into small balls and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pistachio and Rosewater Cookies
Experience the exotic flavors of the Middle East with these delicate cookies infused with pistachios and rosewater.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon rosewater extract
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and rosewater extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pistachios and baking powder. Season with salt to taste.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mediterranean Fig and Honey Tart
This elegant tart combines the natural sweetness of figs with the richness of honey, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry crust. Perfect for a special occasion or as a unique dessert for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup caramelized figs (see note)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 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 lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Drizzle honey over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with chopped mint leaves and caramelized figs. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Note: Caramelize figs by cooking 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs in a skillet with 1 tablespoon honey and 1 tablespoon water over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown.
Halva with Sesame and Pistachios
Halva, a traditional Middle Eastern confection, gets a nutty twist with the addition of sesame seeds and crunchy pistachios. This sweet treat is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva (available at Middle Eastern markets or online)
– 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together sesame seeds and honey until well combined.
2. Cut the halva into small cubes.
3. Add the sesame-honey mixture to the halva and stir until coated.
4. Fold in chopped pistachios.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips:
– Use high-quality halva for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of honey to your taste.
– Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra flavor and texture.
Basbousa with Coconut and Syrup
This classic Middle Eastern dessert gets a creamy twist with the addition of coconut and sweet syrup. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat to brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
– Syrup (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine semolina flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and shredded coconut. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Shape into a round or square shape, about 1 inch thick.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. While warm, drizzle with syrup (see below for recipe).
Syrup:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Combine ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
Greek Galaktoboureko with Custard Filling
This traditional Greek pastry is a showstopper at any occasion, filled with creamy custard and topped with a sweet syrup. Try this recipe to experience the rich flavors of Greece!
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for syrup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Lay out a sheet of phyllo dough and brush with melted butter.
4. Place 1/4 cup of custard mixture in the center of the dough.
5. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Brush top with remaining butter and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. While the pastry is baking, combine granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
8. Remove pastry from oven and drizzle with warm syrup.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon and Olive Oil Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful lemon and olive oil cake, perfect for a brunch or afternoon treat. The combination of tangy lemon zest and juice pairs perfectly with the rich, velvety texture of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Date and Walnut Stuffed Phyllo Rolls
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these delicate pastries filled with a rich date and walnut mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup chopped dates
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together dates, walnuts, honey, orange zest, and salt.
3. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into 8-10 equal pieces.
4. Place a tablespoon of the date mixture onto each piece, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the phyllo over the filling to form a triangle or a rectangle shape, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush tops with melted butter and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pomegranate and Yogurt Parfait
A refreshing and healthy dessert that combines the sweetness of pomegranate with the creaminess of yogurt, perfect for a quick treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup fresh pomegranate arils (seeds)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Granola or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Spoon the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with pomegranate arils, spreading them evenly over the yogurt.
4. If desired, sprinkle granola or chopped nuts on top for added crunch.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Mediterranean Almond and Honey Brittle
Mediterranean Almond and Honey Brittle: A sweet and crunchy treat infused with the warm flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) almonds, sliced
– 1/2 cup (100g) honey
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine honey, sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in almonds and salt. Let cool slightly.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
6. Allow to cool and set at room temperature or in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
7. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes, including cooling time.
Ricotta and Orange Blossom Cannoli
Ricotta and Orange Blossom Cannoli Recipe
A sweet and creamy twist on the classic Italian pastry, these Ricotta and Orange Blossom Cannoli are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) package of cannoli shells
– 16 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp orange blossom water
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, orange blossom water, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Open the cannoli shells and carefully fill each one with the ricotta mixture, leaving about 1 inch at the top unfilled.
3. Dust the tops of the filled cannoli with confectioners’ sugar.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None
Rosewater and Pistachio Ice Cream
Rosewater and Pistachio Ice Cream Recipe
A sweet treat that combines the exotic flavors of rosewater and pistachios, perfect for warm weather or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup rosewater syrup (or 2-3 drops of rosewater essence)
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, rosewater syrup (or essence), and salt. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add chopped pistachios.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Mediterranean Chocolate and Hazelnut Truffles
Elevate your sweet treats with these rich and decadent truffles, combining the warmth of hazelnuts with the depth of Mediterranean chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
– 1 teaspoon orange zest
– Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the hazelnuts, honey, Greek yogurt, and orange zest until well combined.
3. Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the hazelnut mixture until smooth.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Use a spoon or small scoop to form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Roll each truffle between your hands to shape and coat with sea salt if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Apricot and Almond Stuffed Phyllo Cups
Apricot and Almond Stuffed Phyllo Cups Recipe
These delicate phyllo cups are filled with a sweet and crunchy apricot-almond mixture, perfect for a refreshing dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chopped almonds, apricots, sugar, orange blossom water (if using), and cinnamon.
4. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into squares approximately 3 inches (7.5 cm) per side.
5. Place a tablespoon of the apricot-almond mixture onto each square, leaving a 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) border around the edges.
6. Fold the phyllo squares over the filling to form cups, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush tops with melted butter and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Caramelized Pear Tart
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and savory tart, featuring caramelized pears and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and sliced into wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add pear slices to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
4. Arrange cooked pears on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush top with honey and sprinkle with feta cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
The Mediterranean region is famous for its delicious and exotic desserts. From sweet treats like baklava, halva, and basbousa to creamy delights like Greek yogurt cheesecake and ricotta cannoli, there’s something for everyone. This collection of 19 exquisite Mediterranean dessert recipes features a range of flavors and textures, including honey and walnuts, rosewater and pistachios, and orange and almonds. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings or an impressive dessert to serve at your next dinner party, these recipes are sure to impress.
