Are you looking for some delicious and unique desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth? Look no further! Greece has a rich tradition of creating mouth-watering treats that are sure to impress. From classic baklava with layers of phyllo and nuts, to creamy galaktoboureko with semolina custard, there’s something for every taste bud. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious Greek dessert recipes that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean.
From traditional cookies like koulourakia and melomakarona, to creamy rice pudding (rizogalo) and sweet chocolate cakes like sokalatina, these desserts are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a fan of nuts, honey, or semolina, there’s something for everyone in this collection of Greek dessert recipes.
Classic Baklava with Layers of Phyllo and Nuts
A timeless Middle Eastern dessert, baklava is a sweet treat that combines crispy phyllo dough with crunchy nuts and a hint of honey. This recipe yields a deliciously flaky and flavorful pastry perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. Layer phyllo dough, brushing each sheet with melted butter and sprinkling with walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
4. Roll up the phyllo tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drizzle with honey while still warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Galaktoboureko with Semolina Custard
Galaktoboureko is a traditional Greek dessert consisting of flaky pastry filled with sweet custard. This recipe puts a creamy twist on the classic by using semolina custard instead of traditional custard.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 2 cups semolina flour
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine semolina flour and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and comes away from the sides of the pan.
4. Remove from heat and stir in egg yolks and vanilla extract.
5. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
6. Brush the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter. Place one sheet of phyllo, brushing with butter, and repeat until all dough is used.
7. Pour semolina custard over pastry and smooth out.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Loukoumades with Honey and Cinnamon
Loukoumades are traditional Greek doughnuts that are deep-fried to a crispy golden brown, then drizzled with warm honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. This classic treat is perfect for a sweet indulgence any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Honey, warm
– Ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, 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 the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Using a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
8. Drizzle warm honey over the loukoumades and sprinkle with ground cinnamon.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Revani: Greek Coconut Semolina Cake
Revani: Greek Coconut Semolina Cake Recipe
Revani is a classic Greek dessert that combines the warmth of semolina with the creaminess of coconut. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together semolina flour, sugar, coconut, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Koulourakia: Traditional Greek Butter Cookies
These crumbly, buttery cookies are a classic Greek treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delicious treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., circles or strips).
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Melomakarona: Spiced Honey-Dipped Cookies
These traditional Greek cookies are a sweet treat perfect for the holiday season. Soft and chewy on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and infused with warm spices, they’re irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Honey, for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients and spices; mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
8. Dip cooled cookies in honey.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Kourabiedes: Almond Shortbread Dusted with Powdered Sugar
Kourabiedes are a beloved traditional Greek cookie that combines the sweetness of shortbread with the nutty flavor of almonds. These delicate treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or an everyday treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup ground almonds
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in the ground almonds.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
9. Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Halva: Sweet Tahini or Semolina Dessert
Halva, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert, is made with tahini, sugar, and water. This sweet treat is creamy, rich, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tahini
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine tahini, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the water and whisk until smooth.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, for about 10-12 minutes or until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Pour the halva onto a greased plate or tray and allow it to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve: Cut into small squares and enjoy as is, or drizzle with honey and sprinkle with pistachios or almonds for added flavor and texture.
Yogurt and Honey Mousse with Walnuts
This refreshing dessert is perfect for warm weather or as a sweet treat any time of the year. With the creamy texture of yogurt, the sweetness of honey, and the crunch of walnuts, this mousse is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh walnuts
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the yogurt with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the honey and vanilla extract, whipping until well combined.
3. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
4. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in no time.
Karidopita: Greek Walnut Cake with Syrup
This traditional Greek dessert is a moist and flavorful walnut cake soaked in a sweet syrup, perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Syrup ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup water, 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, walnuts, baking powder, cinnamon, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before soaking in syrup (see below).
Syrup:
1. Combine sugar, water, and honey in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Pour warm syrup over cooled cake and let it absorb.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rizogalo: Creamy Greek Rice Pudding
Rizogalo: Creamy Greek Rice Pudding
A comforting and creamy dessert that’s a staple of Greek cuisine, Rizogalo is perfect for warm weather or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter, rose water (if using), and orange zest (if using).
5. Let it cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 6-8
Portokalopita: Orange Phyllo Cake
A classic Greek dessert, Portokalopita is a moist and flavorful orange cake wrapped in crispy phyllo pastry. This recipe combines the sweetness of oranges with the flaky texture of phyllo, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add orange juice, oil, eggs, and salt. Mix until smooth.
4. Stir in chopped walnuts if using.
5. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into desired size for cake.
6. Place one sheet of phyllo in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Pour cake batter over phyllo, spreading evenly.
8. Repeat process with remaining phyllo sheets, finishing with a layer of phyllo on top.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Galatopita: Milk Pie with Cinnamon
A classic Greek dessert, Galatopita is a creamy milk pie infused with the warmth of cinnamon. This comforting treat is perfect for special occasions or cozy evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon and cloves. Let cool slightly.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Pour cooled milk mixture into the pie crust.
6. Top with whipped heavy cream.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Chocolate Salami with Biscuits
This rich and indulgent dessert combines the flavors of Greece with a playful twist on traditional salami. Crunchy biscuits and creamy chocolate come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) chopped pistachios
– 1/4 cup (60g) confectioner’s sugar
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 12-14 biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chocolate chips, pistachios, confectioner’s sugar, orange liqueur, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6mm).
4. Cut into desired shapes or strips.
5. Place biscuits on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly browned.
7. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sokolatina: Rich Greek Chocolate Cake
This decadent cake is a beloved classic in Greece, made with high-quality chocolate and topped with a velvety glaze. Perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Melt the chocolate chips and allow them to cool slightly. Fold the melted chocolate into the batter until smooth.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool completely before glazing with your favorite chocolate glaze.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Loukoumi: Greek Delight with Rosewater
This traditional Greek treat, also known as Turkish Delight, is a sweet and fragrant delight that’s perfect for special occasions or as a thoughtful gift. With its soft, chewy texture and delicate rosewater flavor, Loukoumi is a classic confectionery that will transport you to the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine cornstarch, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan. Whisk until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes or until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in rosewater and lemon juice. Let cool slightly.
4. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or a piece of parchment paper.
5. Allow the Loukoumi to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Bougatsa: Sweet Custard Pie with Phyllo
Experience the delight of Greek pastries with this classic Bougatsa recipe, featuring a sweet custard filling wrapped in flaky phyllo dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, heavy cream, and salt until smooth.
4. Layer phyllo dough in a 9-inch pie dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
5. Pour custard mixture into the phyllo-lined pie dish.
6. Fold excess phyllo dough over filling, creating a crust-like surface.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
8. Allow to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
9. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tsoureki: Sweet Braided Easter Bread
Tsoureki is a traditional Greek Easter bread that is sweet, fragrant, and beautifully braided. This recipe yields a delicious and visually appealing loaf that’s perfect for celebrating the holiday.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add flour, sugar, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and braid together.
7. Place the braided loaf on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these 18 delicious Greek dessert recipes! From classic Baklava to creamy Galaktoboureko, and from traditional cookies like Koulourakia and Melomakarona to rich cakes like Sokolatina and Tsoureki. Discover a variety of desserts that showcase the best of Greek cuisine, including honey-dipped treats like Loukoumades and Revani: Greek Coconut Semolina Cake. Whether you’re in the mood for something nutty, chocolatey, or simply sweet, there’s a dessert here to delight your taste buds.