18 Delicious Halva Recipes Irresistibly Sweet
Halva, the traditional Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dessert made from ground nuts or seeds, has long been a favorite treat for its creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor. But while classic recipes are delicious on their own, they can also be a bit… basic. That’s why we’ve scoured the globe to bring you 18 mouth-watering halva recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic tahini halva with pistachios to flourless chocolate halva cake and everything in between, these sweet treats are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for a new dessert to try, our collection of halva recipes has something for everyone. And the best part? They’re all surprisingly easy to make! So go ahead, get baking, and indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of halva like never before.
Classic Tahini Halva with Pistachios
Tahini halva is a popular Middle Eastern dessert made from ground sesame seeds and pistachios, offering a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture. This simple recipe brings together the traditional flavors of tahini and halva with the crunch of roasted pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together tahini, sugar, and salt until smooth.
2. Gradually add in the water, whisking until creamy and well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped pistachios.
4. If desired, drizzle with honey and sprinkle with additional pistachios for garnish.
5. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Flourless Chocolate Halva Cake
This flourless chocolate halva cake is a game-changer for any chocolate lover. With its moist and fudgy texture, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) halva
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) dark cocoa powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine halva, sugar, and eggs. Beat until smooth and creamy.
3. Melt butter and cocoa powder in a saucepan over low heat. Stir to combine.
4. Add melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture and mix until well combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Semolina Halva with Cardamom and Rosewater
A traditional Indian sweet dish, Semolina Halwa is a rich and creamy delight infused with the warmth of cardamom and the subtlety of rosewater.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina (cream of wheat)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon rosewater
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine semolina and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes away from the sides of the pan (about 10-12 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in ghee or butter, sugar, cardamom, and rosewater.
3. Pour the halwa into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Let it cool to room temperature.
4. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit, if desired.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sunflower Seed Halva with Honey
This traditional Middle Eastern dessert is a sweet and nutty treat that’s perfect for special occasions or as a healthy snack. Sunflower seed halva is made by grinding sunflower seeds into a fine paste, which is then sweetened with honey to create a creamy and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sunflower seeds
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the sunflower seeds and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and grind the sunflower seeds into a fine paste using a blender or food processor.
3. In a saucepan, combine the ground sunflower seed paste with 1/4 cup water and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a creamy consistency (about 10-15 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in the honey and lemon juice until well combined.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Peanut Butter Halva Bars
These rich and creamy bars combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and halva, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With only a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy these tasty treats whenever you desire.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine halva and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until well combined.
3. Add peanut butter and mix until smooth.
4. Stir in melted butter and salt until well combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carrot Halva with Coconut and Almonds
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the richness of coconut and crunch of almonds, creating a unique and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ghee or unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine grated carrots, sugar, and 1/4 cup water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture thickens (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut, sliced almonds, and salt.
4. Let cool slightly, then add ghee or butter and mix well.
5. Transfer to a serving dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Halva with Cinnamon and Walnuts
This creamy pumpkin halva is infused with the warmth of cinnamon and crunch of walnuts, making it a perfect treat for the fall season. This simple recipe combines the comfort of halva with the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together pumpkin puree, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add sugar, whisking until smooth.
3. Add water and melted butter; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon.
5. Pour halva into a serving dish or individual ramekins. Let cool to room temperature.
6. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Coconut Halva with Dates
Vegan Coconut Halva with Dates Recipe
This recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut halva with the natural sweetness of dates, creating a unique and indulgent treat that’s perfect for snacking or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut cream
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped pitted dates
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut cream, maple syrup, and salt. Heat over low heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture reaches a smooth and creamy consistency (about 5 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in the unsweetened shredded coconut until well combined.
3. Fold in the chopped dates, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the halva.
4. Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish or mold and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Once set, cut into desired shapes and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Halva-Stuffed Dates with Dark Chocolate
Elevate your snack game with this unique combination of creamy halva, sweet dates, and rich dark chocolate. This bite-sized treat is perfect for a quick indulgence or as a sophisticated appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 1/2 cup halva
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together halva and honey until well combined.
3. Stuff each date with about 1 tablespoon of the halva mixture.
4. Place stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Melt dark chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Drizzle melted chocolate over the dates and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is a no-bake treat!
Halva and Banana Smoothie Bowl
Experience a delicious and nutritious breakfast or snack with this creamy smoothie bowl featuring halva, banana, and crunchy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tablespoons halva (hazelnut or pistachio)
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine banana, halva, almond milk, honey, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
4. Top with your choice of toppings (sliced almonds, shredded coconut, chopped walnuts).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Enjoy your nutritious and delicious Halva and Banana Smoothie Bowl!
Baklava-Inspired Halva Rolls
These sweet and crispy halva rolls are a twist on the classic Middle Eastern dessert, infused with the warm spices of baklava. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, these treats will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva (crushed)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add crushed halva and mix until combined.
3. Pour in melted butter, honey, cinnamon, and cardamom. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., triangles or rectangles).
5. Place rolls on prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Halva Ice Cream with Sesame Swirls
A creamy and exotic ice cream recipe that combines the traditional Turkish delight, halva, with the nutty flavor of sesame seeds. This unique dessert is perfect for those looking to try something new and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup halva powder (or crushed halva bars)
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and halva powder. Whisk until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 170°F to 180°F (71°C to 82°C).
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add the sesame seeds and continue to mix until they are evenly distributed throughout the ice cream.
7. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking the mixture), plus time for chilling and freezing.
Spiced Coffee Halva Truffles
Elevate your coffee game with these bite-sized truffles, combining the richness of halva with the warmth of spices and a hint of coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine halva and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
2. Add instant coffee powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe requires refrigeration only.
Halva and Yogurt Parfait with Berries
This parfait combines the creamy richness of halva, the tanginess of yogurt, and the sweetness of berries for a delightful dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the halva into small cubes.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey (if using).
3. Layer the ingredients in a glass or parfait dish: halva, yogurt mixture, and berries.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of yogurt on top.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your delicious Halva and Yogurt Parfait with Berries!
Savory Halva and Feta Phyllo Pie
This Greek-inspired pie is a perfect combination of creamy halva, salty feta, and crispy phyllo. A delicious twist on traditional spanakopita, this savory pie is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup savoy halva
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together halva, feta cheese, and parsley.
4. Brush the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
5. Layer 4-6 sheets of phyllo dough in the dish, brushing each sheet with olive oil.
6. Spread the halva mixture over the phyllo layers.
7. Top with another layer of phyllo dough and brush with olive oil.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Halva-Stuffed French Toast with Maple Syrup
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying twist on classic French toast, featuring creamy halva and the perfect balance of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 1/2 cup halva
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the halva filling by crumbling the halva into small pieces.
6. Once the French toast is cooked, spread a layer of halva on each slice.
7. Drizzle with maple syrup to taste.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Halva and Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the nutty flavor of halva with the richness of chocolate chips, creating a sweet treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup halva, crushed
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and crushed halva.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour-halva mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Let cool on wire rack before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rosewater Halva Cheesecake
Rosewater Halva Cheesecake Recipe
Experience the exotic flavors of the Middle East with this unique Rosewater Halva Cheesecake. A creamy cheesecake infused with the delicate taste of rose petals and the nutty sweetness of halva.
Ingredients:
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 2 teaspoons rosewater
• 1 cup halva, crushed
• 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix crust ingredients; press into a springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add sugar and beat well.
4. Add egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in rosewater and halva.
6. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form; fold into cheesecake mixture.
7. Pour cheesecake batter into crust-lined pan.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until set.
9. Cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetness of halva with these 18 mouth-watering recipes! From classic tahini halva with pistachios to flourless chocolate halva cake, and from semolina halva with cardamom and rosewater to peanut butter halva bars, there’s something for everyone. Other sweet treats include carrot halva with coconut and almonds, pumpkin halva with cinnamon and walnuts, and vegan coconut halva with dates. You’ll also find savory options like halva-stuffed French toast and halva and feta phyllo pie. Treat yourself to a world of flavors with these irresistible halva recipes!