How to Make Turkish Cinnamon Desserts

Turkish cinnamon desserts are a delightful treat that embodies the rich flavors and aromas of traditional Turkish cuisine. Known for their unique blends of spices and textures, these desserts offer a warm, comforting experience for anyone with a sweet tooth. In this article, we will explore some popular recipes and tips on how to make authentic Turkish cinnamon desserts.

Cinnamon Rice Pudding (Sütlaç)

One of the most beloved Turkish desserts is rice pudding, or سوتلاچ. This creamy dish is often enhanced with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of short-grain rice
  • 4 cups of milk
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons of corn starch

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice, 1 cup of milk, and sugar. Cook over medium heat until the rice is tender.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the remaining milk, corn starch, and vanilla extract.
  4. Slowly add this mixture to the rice, stirring continuously until it thickens.
  5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Serve in individual bowls, dusting cinnamon on top.

Cinnamon Pastry Rolls (Çörek)

Another favorite among Turkish pastries is çörek, a sweet roll that can be filled with cinnamon, nuts, and other delicious ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet of yeast
  • 1 cup of warm milk
  • 1/2 cup of sugar
  • 1/4 cup of melted butter
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pistachios (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
  3. Add eggs, melted butter, and the yeast mixture to the flour. Mix until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes, then let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size.
  5. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread melted butter over it, and sprinkle with cinnamon and nuts.
  6. Roll the dough tightly and slice into equal pieces. Place them on a greased baking tray.
  7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool before serving.

Cinnamon Baklava

The iconic Turkish baklava can also be enhanced with a hint of cinnamon, adding depth to its sweetness.

Ingredients:

  • 1 package of phyllo dough
  • 2 cups of finely chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pistachios)
  • 1 cup of melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 1 cup of water
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine chopped nuts and cinnamon.
  3. Layer 10 sheets of phyllo dough in a greased baking dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
  4. Spread a layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo, then add a few more sheets of phyllo, continuing until all the nuts and dough are used.
  5. Cut the baklava into diamond shapes before baking.
  6. Bake for about 45 minutes or until