Mediterranean: Sugar Rush!
Ethan Sullivan
| 21-02-2025
· Food Team
Greek cuisine offers an array of savory delights that transport you straight to the Mediterranean, from tangy tzatziki to comforting moussaka.
But the Greek meal is never truly complete without its irresistible desserts, where sweet honey, flaky phyllo dough, and aromatic spices take center stage.
From crispy honey-drenched Loukoumades to the luscious Strawberry Ekmek Kataifi, these Greek-inspired treats offer a unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Whether you're craving something classic or looking for a new spin, there's a Greek dessert to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Strawberry Ekmek Kataifi
One of the most vibrant Greek desserts, Strawberry Ekmek Kataifi is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors. It starts with kataifi, a shredded phyllo dough that's brushed with butter, baked to golden perfection, and soaked in a tangy lemon syrup.
This base is then topped with a creamy strawberry custard that adds both a burst of color and a rich, smooth flavor. The combination of crispy and creamy makes each bite an unforgettable experience.
Baklava Cheesecake
For those who love both cheesecake and baklava, this hybrid dessert is a match made in heaven. The cheesecake itself is infused with the warming spices of baklava — cinnamon, cardamom, and orange zest — giving it a Mediterranean twist.
The crunchy, golden topping is made from phyllo dough and garnished with chopped pistachios, paying homage to the traditional baklava while creating a rich and decadent cheesecake.
Bougatsa
Bougatsa is a beloved Greek pastry, and chef Nasim Alikhani puts her unique spin on it by blending traditional Greek flavors with a touch of Iranian flair. The dessert begins with layers of crispy phyllo dough, folded accordion-style and baked to golden perfection.
A rosewater and vanilla custard is poured over the dough, and it's baked once more for a silky, fragrant finish. The addition of salted pistachios and cardamom introduces an unexpected yet delightful flavor profile.
Crispy, Golden Honey-Drenched Loukoumades
Loukoumades are Greece’s answer to doughnut holes, but they’re far from ordinary. These little bites of heaven are fried until golden, then drenched in a sweet cinnamon-scented honey syrup that adds a warm, comforting flavor.
Nutty Baklava Pie
Imagine the richness of pecan pie with the Mediterranean flair of baklava — that’s what you get with Nutty Baklava Pie. The familiar phyllo dough, spiced with cardamom, wraps around layers of candied nuts, creating a crunchy, buttery texture that complements the smooth, sweet filling.
Karithopita (Greek Walnut and Olive Oil Cake with Orange Syrup)
Karithopita is a deeply comforting dessert that blends the richness of walnuts with the earthiness of olive oil. The cake has a dense yet moist texture, thanks to the olive oil, and is soaked in a fragrant citrus syrup.
Kourambiedes
Kourambiedes are delicate Greek shortbread cookies, traditionally served during the holidays. These buttery cookies are made by whipping the butter to a light and airy consistency, which gives them a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Diples (Fried Greek Pastry with Honey and Nuts)
Diples, or thiples, are crispy fried pastries that are perfect for special occasions. The dough is rolled thin and fried until golden, then coated in a fragrant homemade honey syrup infused with orange zest, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
Finally, they’re sprinkled with crushed nuts, adding a satisfying crunch. These bite-sized treats are a sweet way to celebrate Greek traditions.
From the crispy, honey-soaked Loukoumades to the rich and fragrant Karithopita, Greek desserts offer a delicious way to experience the sweetness of Mediterranean life.
So, whether you're a longtime fan of Greek cuisine or a newcomer, these treats are sure to delight your taste buds.
10 Must-Try Greek Sweets and Desserts | Indulge in the Flavors of Greece!
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