Sesame halva, a traditional Middle Eastern confection, has been a beloved treat for centuries. Its creamy texture and nutty flavor make it a perfect canvas for creative experimentation. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering sesame halva recipes that will elevate your sweet tooth to new heights.
From classic pairings like pistachios and vanilla bean to bold combinations like matcha green tea and dark chocolate, these recipes are sure to satisfy any cravings you may have. Whether you’re a fan of bright citrus flavors or rich, spicy notes, we’ve got you covered with our diverse selection of sesame halva creations.
So, grab your mixing bowls and get ready to indulge in the world of creamy, crunchy, and utterly delicious sesame halva treats!
Classic Tahini Halva with Pistachios
Tahini halva is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert made from ground sesame seeds, sweetened and flavored with tahini. This recipe adds the crunch of pistachios for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tahini
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine tahini, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture thickens and turns pale yellow.
3. Remove from heat and stir in rose water (if using) and salt. Let cool slightly.
4. Stir in chopped pistachios.
5. Pour the halva into a shallow dish or individual molds. Let cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Sesame Halva
Transform traditional halva into a decadent treat by dipping it in rich chocolate and crunchy sesame seeds. This unique dessert is perfect for those who crave both sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sesame halva
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the halva into desired shapes or bars.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Dip each halva piece into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the surface.
4. Immediately sprinkle sesame seeds over the chocolate-covered halva.
5. Place the dipped halva on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including chilling time)
Honey and Almond Sesame Halva
This recipe combines the richness of halva with the sweetness of honey, crunch of sesame seeds, and crunch of toasted almonds. Perfect as a snack or dessert, it’s easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds, chopped
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and halva until well combined.
2. Stir in the chopped almonds and sesame seeds.
3. Add the salt and stir to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or individual servings.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Vanilla Bean and Rosewater Halva
Experience the exotic fusion of vanilla bean and rosewater in this creamy and aromatic halva recipe, perfect for a sweet treat or gift-giving occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean powder (or 1/4 teaspoon real vanilla extract)
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine semolina flour, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually whisk in the lukewarm milk to prevent lumps from forming.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla bean powder or real vanilla extract and rosewater.
5. Pour the halva mixture into a shallow dish or individual cups.
6. Let cool to room temperature before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Orange Blossom and Cardamom Halva
This fragrant and creamy halva is infused with the sweetness of orange blossom water and the warmth of cardamom. Perfect as a dessert or snack, it’s sure to delight your senses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add melted ghee or butter, cardamom, orange blossom water, and salt. Mix until smooth and free of lumps.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Coconut and Sesame Halva Bars
These no-bake bars combine the creamy richness of halva with the nutty flavor of sesame seeds and the sweetness of coconut. Perfect for a quick snack or post-workout energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup halva powder (or store-bought halva)
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, halva powder, and sesame seeds.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together honey, maple syrup, and salt.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in shredded coconut.
5. Press mixture into a lined or greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Cut into bars and serve.
Cooking Time: None, as these are no-bake bars!
Matcha Green Tea Halva
This unique dessert combines the bright, grassy flavor of matcha green tea with the creamy richness of traditional Indian halva. The result is a refreshing and exotic treat perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (chickpea flour)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together besan, sugar, melted butter, matcha powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add heavy cream or half-and-half and whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cinnamon Swirl Sesame Halva
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this unique blend of traditional halva and modern flavors, featuring a crispy cinnamon swirl and nutty sesame crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sesame seeds, sugar, and salt.
3. Add water and cornstarch mixture; stir until combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the halva, then sprinkle with cinnamon and cardamom.
6. Roll up the halva tightly and shape into a log.
7. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Slice and serve.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Halva
Transform plain halva into a rich and indulgent treat with the addition of dark chocolate and sea salt. This simple dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a unique gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together halva and softened butter until well combined.
2. Gradually add granulated sugar and mix until smooth.
3. Melt dark chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Fold melted chocolate into the halva mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Sprinkle sea salt on top of the halva mixture.
6. Drizzle with heavy cream and serve.
Cooking Time: None
Tahini Halva with Dried Figs
This classic Middle Eastern dessert combines the creamy richness of tahini halva with the sweet, chewy texture of dried figs. The perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tahini
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine tahini, sugar, water, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in chopped figs. Let cool slightly.
4. Transfer the halva to a serving dish or individual cups. Drizzle with honey, if desired.
5. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Sesame Halva
Combine the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with the nutty goodness of sesame halva for a unique and delicious dessert. This recipe is perfect for the fall season, or anytime you need a sweet treat to brighten up your day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sesame seeds, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture turns golden brown and fragrant (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in softened butter, pumpkin pie spice, and heavy cream or whole milk until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and smooth out to an even layer.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the halva is lightly browned and set.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Sesame Halva
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of sesame with the creamy texture of halva, all wrapped up in a rich caramel coating. Perfect as a sweet treat or a unique dessert topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup halva (crumbly or smooth, whichever you prefer)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Remove from heat and stir in sesame seeds. Let cool slightly.
5. Add halva to the caramel mixture and mix until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and smooth out.
7. Dot with butter and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Coffee-Infused Halva with Hazelnuts
Halva, a traditional Mediterranean dessert, gets a boost of flavor and aroma from the addition of strong coffee. This recipe combines the creamy texture of halva with the crunch of hazelnuts and the deep flavor of freshly brewed coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, flour, and salt.
2. Add the softened butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Pour in the brewed coffee and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped hazelnuts and rose water (if using).
5. Pour into a serving dish or individual ramekins.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Lemon Zest and Poppy Seed Halva
This sweet and tangy halva combines the brightness of lemon zest with the crunch of poppy seeds, creating a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of halva powder
– 1/2 cup of sugar
– 1/4 cup of water
– 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon of grated lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the halva powder and sugar.
2. Gradually add in the water, stirring until a smooth paste forms.
3. Add in the lemon juice and lemon zest, mixing until well combined.
4. Stir in the poppy seeds.
5. Pour the mixture into a serving dish or individual cups.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None required! This halva is best served chilled.
Turmeric and Black Sesame Halva
This recipe combines the creamy texture of halva with the warm, earthy flavors of turmeric and black sesame. The result is a unique and delicious dessert perfect for adventurous palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chickpea flour and water. Whisk until smooth and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan (about 10-12 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in turmeric powder, black sesame seeds, and salt.
3. If desired, add honey or maple syrup and stir to combine.
4. Pour the halva mixture into a shallow dish or mold and let cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter and Jelly Halva
This unique dessert combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the fruity sweetness of jelly, all wrapped up in a nutty halva. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons grape or strawberry jelly
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Cut the halva into small cubes.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and jelly until smooth.
3. Add the peanut butter-jelly mixture to the halva cubes and toss until well coated.
4. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is ready in minutes.
Lavender and White Chocolate Halva
Halva, a traditional Mediterranean dessert, gets a creative makeover with the addition of lavender and white chocolate. This sweet treat is perfect for those looking to try something new and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup halva
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and lavender buds.
2. Cut the halva into small cubes and place them in a separate bowl.
3. Sprinkle the sugar-lavender mixture evenly over the halva cubes.
4. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Pour the melted white chocolate over the halva and lavender mixture.
6. Stir gently to combine.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
8. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None
Sesame Halva with Raspberry Swirl
This unique dessert combines the nutty flavor of sesame halva with a sweet and tangy raspberry swirl. Perfect for those looking to mix things up from traditional sweets.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sesame seeds
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon rose water (optional)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup raspberry jam
– Fresh raspberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sesame seeds, sugar, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in rose water (if using). Pour into prepared baking dish and let cool completely.
4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
5. Spoon whipped cream over cooled sesame halva, then drizzle with raspberry jam.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + chilling time
Molasses and Walnut Halva
Halva, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert, gets a delicious twist with the addition of molasses and walnuts. This sweet treat is perfect for cozy nights or as a special occasion dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine semolina flour and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens into a custard-like consistency.
2. Remove from heat and stir in molasses, walnuts, oil, and salt.
3. Pour mixture onto a lightly oiled surface or a silicone mat. Allow to cool and set for at least 30 minutes.
4. Cut into desired shapes and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chili and Sesame Halva
This recipe combines the warmth of chili peppers with the nutty sweetness of sesame halva, creating a unique and flavorful dessert. Perfect for adventurous palates, this sweet and spicy treat is sure to surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sesame halva
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chili flakes and honey until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, crumble sesame halva into small pieces.
3. Add the chili-honey mixture to the halva and stir until well coated.
4. Mix in soy sauce, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including preparation time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 delicious sesame halva recipes! From classic tahini halva with pistachios to unique flavor combinations like orange blossom and cardamom, coconut and sesame bars, and peanut butter and jelly, there’s something for everyone. Discover how you can elevate this traditional Middle Eastern treat with creative twists like matcha green tea, cinnamon swirl, and dark chocolate and sea salt. Whether you’re a sweet tooth or a savory fan, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire new flavor adventures!