In C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, Turkish Delight was mentioned more than enough times to make anyone’s mouth water.
Also known as “lokum”, these addicting, gelatinized cubes with a gummy interior is strikingly similar to jellybeans and are dusted with powdered sugar. Most recipes make use of rosewater, lemons, and even pomegranate to flavor these jelly cubes, but in our recipe, we used vanilla and almond extract.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups cold water
- ¾ cup cornstarch + ½ cup, for dusting candy squares
- 3 cups sugar
- ¼ cup corn syrup
- ½ tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 2 drops red or pink liquid food coloring
- cooking spray or neutral oil, for greasing
- ½ cup powdered sugar
In a large bowl, whisk water and cornstarch until completely dissolved.
Microwave for 2 mins, then whisk until smooth. Microwave for 2 mins more until it turns opaque, then whisk again until thickened.
Mix in sugar and corn syrup, then heat for 5 mins in the microwave. Remove and whisk until smooth. Repeat this step twice and whisk every 5 mins.
At the third repetition, add in the extracts and food coloring and make sure color is evenly distributed. Heat for 5 more minutes and mixture should be very thick and tacky.
After mixing it twice, add the extracts and food coloring. Mix until evenly distributed. Heat for 5 mins until the mixture has thickened.
Pour mixture into a well-greased loaf pan or 9x9 inch pan. Spread evenly using a greased spoon or spatula.
Allow the candy to set at room temperature until candy has solidified, about 2-4 hrs.
Once completely cooled and firm, slice individually into small squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in airtight mason jars for prolonged shelf life.
