Turkish desserts: what to choose and what varieties exist
Turkish cuisine: what to try in Turkey?
The most popular Turkish sweets worth trying:
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Baklava, a layered dessert with nuts and syrup is served in almost every restaurant. It is made from thin layers of dough, between which are nuts, usually walnuts or pistachios, and soaked in sweet syrup or honey.
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Lokum - a soft and aromatic dessert made with nuts, rose water, or citrus. Lokum comes in various flavors, from classic rose to fruity variations.
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Künefe - a warm, cheesy dessert with a crispy crust soaked in syrup. This sweet treat is made from fine pastry strands, which are then drenched in sweet syrup.
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Sütlaç - Turkish rice pudding known for its creamy texture and rich flavors of milk and vanilla. It’s often served with cinnamon and nuts, making it a perfect dessert after lunch or dinner.
What to Try in Turkey: Sweet Delicacies
Here’s a list of the most popular treats you should definitely try:
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Turkish Honey (Bal) – Known for its rich taste and aroma, thanks to the unique flora. Chestnut and pine honey from the Antalya and Black Sea regions are particularly popular.
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Pekmez – A thick syrup made from grapes or mulberries by boiling down their juice. It can be enjoyed as a standalone dessert or paired with yogurt and bread.
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Pistachios from Gaziantep (Gaziantep Fıstığı) – Renowned for their rich aroma and sweet flavor, these exquisite pistachios are often used in making Turkish desserts, such as baklava.
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Figs – Fresh and Dried (İncir) – One of Turkey’s sweetest and juiciest fruits, figs are highly prized, especially those from the Aydın region.
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Mulberries (Dut) – A sweet, honey-flavored berry enjoyed both fresh and dried.
The Best Sweets in Istanbul
Here are a few desserts you must try:
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Viyana Kahvesi’s Basque Cheesecake – Regarded as the best cheesecake in Istanbul, this dessert can be enjoyed right across from one of the city’s iconic landmarks, the Galata Tower.
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Güloglu Baklava – The finest Turkish baklava made from a centuries-old recipe passed down through generations.
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Lokum by Hafiz Mustafa – The famous Turkish delight from Hafiz Mustafa, offering a variety of flavors ranging from classic to exotic.
Where to Buy Sweets in Istanbul
Don’t miss the city’s renowned confectioneries, such as Hafiz Mustafa, Koska, and Şekerci Cafer Erol, celebrated for their high-quality sweets. Other popular spots include Mendel’s, Saray Muhallebicisi, and Beyaz Fırın, which offer incredible desserts crafted with traditional recipes and the finest ingredients.
Be sure to also check out Turkish supermarkets, where the quality of desserts rivals that of confectioneries, often at a much lower price—making them a great option for souvenirs.