Indulge in the rich, sweet symphony of Sekerpare, a cherished Turkish dessert that elegantly combines the soft texture of semolina cookies with the luscious sweetness of lemon-infused syrup. This recipe guides you through the delicate balance of ingredients and steps to create a dessert that's not only a feast for the taste buds but also a testament to the beauty of Turkish culinary traditions.
Why You'll Love This: Sekerpare is the perfect amalgamation of simplicity and flavor. Its tender, buttery texture infused with the aromatic sweetness of vanilla and lemon syrup makes it irresistible. It's a delightful experience for anyone who appreciates the subtlety of desserts that aren't overly sweet yet satisfyingly indulgent. Plus, the joy of creating something so beloved in Turkish cuisine is a rewarding experience in itself.
Perfect Occasion: This dessert shines at any gathering, from casual family dinners to more festive occasions like Eid, Ramadan, or a special tea time. It's also wonderfully suited for holiday seasons, bringing a touch of warmth and sweetness to the table that complements any meal.
Decoration Tips: Embellish each piece with a single peeled hazelnut pressed gently into the center before baking to add a crunchy contrast to the softness of the cookie. After soaking in syrup, garnish with finely chopped pistachios or a sprinkle of coconut flakes for an extra layer of flavor and a visually appealing finish.
Ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 125g soft butter
- 35g semolina
- 60g powdered sugar
- 250g flour
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
For the Syrup:
- 450g sugar
- 600ml water
- 1 slice of lemon
Directions:
- Start by preparing the syrup. Combine water and sugar in a saucepan. Whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved, then add the lemon slice. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- For the dough, cream together butter, vanilla sugar, and powdered sugar until smooth. Mix in the egg, then stir in the semolina. Finally, fold in the flour and baking powder to form a dough.
- Shape the dough into walnut-sized balls, slightly flattening them, and place on a baking sheet. Press a peeled hazelnut into the center of each.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 175°C (347°F) for about 25 minutes or until golden brown, keeping an eye on them after 20 minutes for desired doneness.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for 1-2 minutes, then generously douse with the cooled syrup, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow to rest for 3-4 hours until the syrup is almost fully absorbed.
Enjoy this exquisite taste of Turkish tradition, where every bite is a sweet journey through culture and flavor. Enjoy!