This Turkish Orange Delight is a refreshing and chewy dessert infused with the natural sweetness of fresh orange juice. Coated in coconut flakes, this treat is perfect for serving with tea or coffee. Simple to make and absolutely delightful, it’s a must-try dessert for any occasion!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cooling Time: 4–5 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: ~5 hours 35 minutes
Servings
- Makes: 20–25 small squares
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups (600 ml) fresh orange juice (about 6–8 oranges)
- 1 cup (120 g) cornstarch
- 1 cup (160 g) granulated sugar
For Finishing:
- Coconut flakes, as needed for coating
Directions
1. Prepare the Orange Juice:
- Squeeze fresh oranges until you have 3 cups (600 ml) of juice.
- Strain the juice to remove any pulp or seeds for a smooth consistency.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large saucepan, combine the orange juice, cornstarch, and granulated sugar.
- Whisk well to dissolve the sugar and cornstarch completely.
3. Cook the Mixture:
- Place the saucepan over low heat.
- Stir constantly with a spatula for about 25 minutes. The mixture will thicken and start pulling away from the sides of the pan.
- Ensure the heat remains low to prevent lumps and maintain a smooth texture.
4. Set the Turkish Delight:
- Wet the inside of a square or rectangular container with water to prevent sticking.
- Pour the thickened mixture into the container and smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Allow it to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for 4–5 hours or overnight for the best texture.
5. Prepare for Serving:
- Remove the Turkish Delight from the refrigerator.
- Run a knife around the edges to loosen it from the container, then turn it out onto a cutting board.
- Sprinkle coconut flakes on a flat surface.
- Cut the Turkish Delight into small squares and roll each piece in coconut flakes to coat.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Arrange the coated pieces on a serving plate. Serve with Turkish coffee or tea for an authentic experience.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a cup of hot Turkish tea or coffee for a traditional experience.
- Serve as part of a dessert platter with other Turkish delights or pastries.
- Add as a garnish to ice cream or yogurt for a sweet, tangy twist.
- Include in festive gift boxes or treat bags for special occasions.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the orange juice is fresh for the best flavor; bottled juice may alter the taste.
- Stir continuously during cooking to prevent lumps and ensure even thickening.
- Wet the container with water before pouring the mixture to prevent sticking.
- Refrigerate overnight for the perfect chewy texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Orange juice provides vitamin C and natural antioxidants.
- Cornstarch gives the dessert its chewy texture while being gluten-free.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free
- Vegetarian-friendly
Nutritional Facts (Per Piece)
- Calories: ~80
- Protein: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Do Not Freeze: Freezing will alter the texture and make the dessert rubbery.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright, citrusy flavor from fresh orange juice.
- Simple ingredients with no artificial additives.
- Fun and easy-to-make treat for any occasion.
- Gluten-free and suitable for a variety of diets.
Conclusion
This Turkish Orange Delight with Coconut Coating is a vibrant and refreshing dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its natural orange flavor and chewy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Treat yourself or share with friends—everyone will love it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use store-bought orange juice?
Fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but store-bought juice can be used if unsweetened. - Can I replace coconut flakes with another coating?
Yes, powdered sugar or finely chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds work well. - How do I prevent lumps in the mixture?
Stir constantly over low heat and ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved before cooking. - Can I add additional flavors?
Yes, a few drops of orange blossom water or vanilla extract enhance the flavor. - Is this dessert suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan. - Can I make this dessert in advance?
Yes, it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. - Can I use another fruit juice?
Yes, pomegranate, lemon, or mixed berry juice can be used for a different flavor. - Why does my Turkish Delight feel sticky?
Ensure the dessert is fully set in the refrigerator before cutting and coat generously with coconut flakes. - Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, reduce the sugar slightly for a less sweet version. - What should I do if my mixture is too runny?
Continue cooking on low heat until it thickens, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.