Description

Turkish delight (lokum) is a delicate, chewy Middle Eastern confection made with rosewater, raspberry, and orange extracts, set into soft jelly squares and dusted in powdered sugar perfect for gifting, holidays, or elegant homemade candy. Naturally gluten-free and easily made vegan.

Ingredients

For the Base:

– 4 cups (800g) granulated sugar

– 4¼ cups (1000ml) water, divided

– 3 tbsp lemon juice

– 1¼ cups (150g) cornstarch

– 1 tsp cream of tartar

For Flavoring:

– 2 tbsp rosewater (optional)

– 1½ tsp raspberry extract

– 1½ tsp orange extract

– ½ tsp salt

For Topping:

– 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar

– ¼ cup chopped pistachios (optional)

– 4–6 drops red food coloring (optional, or use natural beet juice)

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Instructions

Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with foil and spray generously with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large saucepan, combine 4 cups sugar and 1½ cups water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Cook until syrup reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
In a second heavy-bottomed pot, whisk together 2¾ cups water, lemon juice, cornstarch, and cream of tartar until smooth.
Cook over high heat, whisking constantly, until mixture thickens into a glossy, jelly-like paste (about 10–15 minutes).
Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the cornstarch mixture in a thin stream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
Reduce heat to medium. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 45 minutes, until mixture turns golden-orange and thick.
Remove from heat. Stir in rosewater, raspberry extract, orange extract, salt, and food coloring (if using).
Pour half the mixture into the prepared pan. Sprinkle with pistachios (if using).
Pour remaining mixture on top. Smooth the surface.
Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes, or until firm.
Turn out onto a cutting board. Peel off foil.
Cut into 100 small squares (about ¾-inch).
Toss each piece generously in powdered sugar to coat completely.

Notes

– Cornstarch is essential do not substitute with gelatin.

– Whisk constantly during initial thickening to avoid clumps.

– Gluten-free: Naturally GF—no modifications needed.

– Vegan: Use plant-based food coloring and ensure extracts are vegan-friendly.

– Less sticky: Store in a cool, dry place and re-coat in powdered sugar if needed.

– Flavor swap: Replace rosewater with orange blossom water or vanilla for variation.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Candy / Dessert
Method: Stovetop Candy-Making
Cuisine: Middle Eastern / Turkish

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 pieces
Calories: ~80
Sugar: 19g
Sodium: 25mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0g