Lokum Recipe

Lokum, commonly known as Turkish Delight, is a soft, chewy, and sweet confection with a gelatinous texture, often flavored with rose, lemon, or orange and dusted with powdered sugar.

Lokum Recipe
Prep Time 10 min
Cook Time 60 min
Serving 8
Difficulty Easy

Ingredients

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ cups water (divided)
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp rose water (or orange blossom water, optional)
  • Few drops food coloring (pink, red, or yellow, optional)
  • ½ cup chopped pistachios or hazelnuts (optional)
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup cornstarch

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Sugar Syrup

  1. In a saucepan, combine sugar, ½ cup water, and lemon juice.Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

  2. Once dissolved, stop stirring and let it boil until it reaches 240°F (115°C) (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer.

Step 2: Make the Cornstarch Mixture

  1. In another saucepan, whisk together cornstarch, cream of tartar, and the remaining 1 cup of water until smooth.

  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens into a paste-like consistency.

Step 3: Combine and Cook

  1. Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the cornstarch mixture while stirring continuously.

  2. Reduce heat to low and continue stirring for 45-50 minutes until the mixture becomes thick, glossy, and golden.Add the rose water, food coloring, and nuts (if using), then stir well.

Step 4: Set and Cool

  1. Grease a small baking dish and line it with parchment paper.

  2. Pour the hot mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

  3. Let it sit at room temperature for 6-8 hours or overnight until firm.

Step 5: Cut and Dust

  1. In a bowl, mix powdered sugar and cornstarch.

  2. Once the Lokum is set, cut it into small cubes and coat each piece in the sugar-cornstarch mixture to prevent sticking.