Experience the delicate sweetness and timeless charm of Nut-Free Traditional Turkish Delight, a perfect treat for those seeking a refined, allergen-friendly dessert. This classic recipe features a luscious base of granulated sugar and cornstarch, flavored with fragrant rose water and optionally tinted with soft hues of red or pink food coloring for a vibrant touch. The recipe omits nuts, making it safe and accessible for those with nut allergies. Carefully prepared and set overnight, each bite-sized square is dusted in a cloud of powdered sugar to create the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. Ideal for gifting, special occasions, or simply indulging in a taste of Middle Eastern confectionery, this nut-free Turkish Delight offers an authentic, sophisticated flavor that is sure to please.
Prepare a square 8x8-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with oil and lining it with parchment paper. Set aside.
In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and 400 milliliters of water. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the sugar mixture to a boil. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Cook until the mixture reaches 115°C (240°F) to achieve the soft ball stage.
While the sugar syrup cooks, whisk together 120 grams of cornstarch, cream of tartar, and 600 milliliters of water in a separate large saucepan. Cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking frequently, until it thickens into a smooth, glue-like consistency.
Once the sugar syrup reaches 115°C (240°F), carefully pour it into the thickened cornstarch mixture in a slow, steady stream while whisking briskly to combine. Continue cooking the combined mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, for about 45-50 minutes. The mixture should become golden and very thick.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the rose water and food coloring (if using) until fully incorporated.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Let it sit at room temperature for 6-8 hours or overnight to set completely.
Once set, lightly dust a cutting surface with a mixture of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Turn the Turkish Delight out onto the surface and peel off the parchment paper.
Using a sharp knife dusted with powdered sugar, cut the Turkish Delight into bite-sized squares.
Coat each piece thoroughly in the powdered sugar mixture to prevent sticking. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Calories |
2438 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.1 g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 45 mg | 2% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 625.7 g | 228% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 497.8 g | ||
| Protein | 0.3 g | 1% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 64 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 0.7 mg | 4% | |
| Potassium | 501 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.