Orange Turkish Delight (Lokum)

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup water (for the syrup)
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon citric acid (optional, but it helps stabilize the mixture)
• 1/2 cup cornstarch (cornflour)
• 1 1/4 cups water (for the cornstarch mixture)
• 1 teaspoon rosewater (optional, but it adds a floral hint, which is traditional in lokum)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Chopped pistachios (optional, for a crunchy contrast)

How to Make Orange Turkish Delight (Lokum)

This recipe for Orange Turkish Delight involves a bit of patience, but the end result is absolutely worth the effort. Follow these simple steps to create your very own batch of Turkish Delight.

1. Prepare the Pan

• Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the Turkish Delight once it’s set. You can also dust the pan lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Syrup

• In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
• Add fresh orange juice, lemon juice, and grated orange zest to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t boil over.
• Optional: Add citric acid to help preserve the structure of the syrup and enhance the citrus flavor.

3. Prepare the Cornstarch Mixture

• In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup cornstarch with 1 1/4 cups of water. Stir until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. This mixture will thicken the syrup and create the signature chewy texture of Turkish Delight.

4. Combine the Syrups

• Gradually add the cornstarch mixture into the simmering syrup while stirring constantly. Continue to cook on low heat for about 45-60 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the mixture from burning. You’ll notice that the mixture will start to thicken to a pudding-like consistency.
• Once the mixture has thickened and is glossy, add the rosewater (if using) and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.

5. Pour the Mixture into the Pan

• Once the mixture has thickened and is a smooth consistency, pour it into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top and spread the mixture evenly across the pan.
• Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or ideally overnight, to fully set. The Turkish Delight should be firm but still soft to the bite.

6. Cut and Coat with Powdered Sugar

• Once the Turkish Delight has set, dust a clean surface with powdered sugar. Carefully turn the Turkish Delight out of the pan and cut it into small cubes.
• Roll each piece in a light dusting of powdered sugar to prevent sticking and give it that signature look of traditional Turkish Delight.
• Optional: If you like, you can sprinkle the Turkish Delight with chopped pistachios for an added crunch and a pop of color.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Your Orange Turkish Delight is now ready to be served! Enjoy it with a cup of Turkish tea or coffee, or present it as a gift wrapped in decorative packaging for a lovely homemade treat.

Tips for the Best Orange Turkish Delight

1. Use Fresh Orange Juice: Fresh orange juice really enhances the flavor of the Turkish Delight. Don’t use store-bought juice if you can avoid it, as fresh juice will give a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
2. Be Patient While Cooking: The cooking process for Turkish Delight can take some time, so be patient. Don’t rush it or increase the heat, as this can affect the texture. Stir regularly to avoid burning the mixture.
3. Make It Your Own: Feel free to experiment with different flavors. You can substitute the orange juice and zest with other citrus fruits like lemon or lime, or even try infusing with herbs like lavender or mint.
4. Allow Plenty of Time to Set: Make sure to give the Turkish Delight enough time to set. While it may be tempting to cut into it earlier, waiting for it to firm up properly ensures the best texture and consistency.
5. Storage: Store your homemade Turkish Delight in an airtight container at room temperature. It will keep well for up to two weeks, though it’s likely to be gone much sooner because of how irresistible it is!

Why You’ll Love Orange Turkish Delight

Orange Turkish Delight (Lokum) offers a perfect balance of sweetness, citrusy tang, and chewy texture, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to impress guests, or simply craving a new, exciting dessert to add to your repertoire, this vibrant twist on traditional Turkish Delight will hit the spot.

With its subtle orange flavor and the optional pistachio crunch, this treat is both refreshing and indulgent. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea, making it the perfect sweet snack for any time of day. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase the vibrant citrus flavors of the season in a truly unique way.

Conclusion

If you’re a fan of sweet, chewy confections, Orange Turkish Delight is an absolute must-try. Its fresh citrus flavor, combined with the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, makes it a truly exceptional treat. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or simply indulging in a homemade dessert, this delightful treat is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy the sweet, refreshing taste of Orange Turkish Delight—a treat that’s as timeless as it is delicious!