Name: Irresistible Cranberry-Rose Turkish Delight Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 35 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 cup (240ml) cranberry juice; 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice; 1 tablespoon (15ml) rose water; 1 cup (240ml) water; 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (65g) cornstarch; 1/4 cup (30g) chopped dried cranberries (optional); 1/4 cup (30g) pistachios (optional); Powdered sugar for dusting

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Introduction

This Irresistible Cranberry-Rose Turkish Delight is a delicate and fragrant treat that combines the tangy sweetness of cranberry with the floral notes of rose water. Soft, chewy, and lightly dusted with powdered sugar, it’s a perfect homemade confection to enjoy or share.

The image shows a close-up of several square, pink Turkish delight pieces covered lightly with white powdered sugar. Each piece has a soft, slightly translucent texture with visible bits of red fruit or berry inside. The Turkish delight squares are stacked in a small pile on a white plate, with a few whole red cranberries and light green pistachios scattered around the base of the stack. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup (240ml) cranberry juice
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar

1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice
1/2 cup (65g) cornstarch

1 cup (240ml) water
1 tablespoon (15ml) rose water

1/4 cup (30g) chopped dried cranberries (optional)
1/4 cup (30g) pistachios (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Dust lightly with powdered sugar.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk 1/2 cup (65g) cornstarch with 1 cup (240ml) water until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberry juice, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 4: Gradually whisk the cornstarch mixture into the cranberry mixture. Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in the rose water and adjust the amount to taste.
Step 6: Optionally, stir in chopped dried cranberries or pistachios for added texture and flavor.

Step 7: Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Let it cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm.
Step 8: Once set, lift the Turkish delight from the pan using the parchment overhang. Dust generously with powdered sugar, then use a sharp knife to cut into small squares.
Step 9: Toss the squares in additional powdered sugar to coat all sides before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a nuttier flavor, try substituting pistachios with chopped almonds or hazelnuts.
If you prefer a stronger rose flavor, add the rose water a little at a time and taste as you go.
Ensure constant stirring during thickening to prevent lumps and sticking.

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean, easy cutting of the Turkish delight.
For a vegan variation, check that your powdered sugar is vegan-friendly, or use cornstarch dusting instead.

Storage

Store the Turkish delight in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep it away from moisture to maintain its texture. If refrigerated, allow to come to room temperature before serving. Properly stored, it can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw completely before serving and dust again with powdered sugar.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with a gold rim holding six layered jelly squares, each with three distinct layers: the bottom is white and smooth, the middle is a marbled mix of white and red swirls, and the top is a clear, deep red jelly dusted with white powdered sugar and small green nut sprinkles. Around the jelly squares, there are scattered dark red cranberries adding contrast. The plate sits on a white marbled textured surface with soft warm lights blurred in the background, creating a cozy feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other fruit juices instead of cranberry?

Yes, you can substitute cranberry juice with other tart fruit juices like pomegranate or cherry for a different flavor while maintaining the balance of sweetness and acidity.

Is rose water necessary for this recipe?

Rose water adds a distinctive floral aroma that is traditional in Turkish delight, but if you’re not a fan, you can reduce the amount or omit it. Alternatively, try orange blossom water for a different floral note.