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A close-up shot of homemade Turkish Delight cubes. The chewy texture and powdered sugar coating of the authentic lokum are clearly visible.

Turkish Delight Recipe (Authentic & Easy Lokum)

This easy and authentic Turkish Delight recipe (Lokum) guides you through making the classic rosewater-flavored confection at home. Achieve the perfect chewy texture with our foolproof step-by-step instructions, tips, and flavor variations for a truly delightful treat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 64 pieces
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Turkish
Calories: 45

Ingredients
  

For the Sugar Syrup:
  • 2 cups Granulated Sugar
  • 3/4 cup Water
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed
For the Cornstarch Slurry:
  • 1 cup Cornstarch
  • 1 tsp Cream of Tartar
  • 3 cups Cold Water
For Flavoring:
  • 2 tbsp Rosewater Food-grade
  • 2-3 drops Red Food Coloring Optional
For Dusting:
  • 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
  • 1/4 cup Cornstarch

Equipment

  • 2 Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan
  • 1 Candy Thermometer
  • 1 8x8 inch baking pan
  • 1 Whisk

Instructions
 

  1. Grease and line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1/4 cup cornstarch. Dust the prepared pan generously, reserving the rest.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, 3/4 cup water, and lemon juice. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Boil without stirring until a candy thermometer reads 240°F (115°C).
  3. While the syrup cooks, whisk 1 cup cornstarch, cream of tartar, and 3 cups cold water in a separate saucepan until smooth. Bring to a boil over medium heat, whisking constantly, until a thick paste forms. Remove from heat.
  4. Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the cornstarch paste, whisking constantly. Return the pan to low heat and cook for 60-75 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the mixture is pale gold and very thick.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the rosewater and optional food coloring. Pour into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Let it set at room temperature, uncovered, for at least 8 hours or overnight.
  6. Lift the set candy from the pan. Dust the top and your work surface with the remaining dusting mixture. Cut into 1-inch cubes with an oiled knife and toss each piece in the mixture to coat completely.

Notes

Using a candy thermometer is crucial for achieving the correct texture.
Do not refrigerate the Turkish Delight, as it will harden and lose its chewy quality.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one month.
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