Among the many sweet treats that bring people together worldwide, Persian desserts hold a unique place in the hearts of foodies. This collection of 19 traditional and modernized sweets is a testament to the rich culture surrounding tea drinking and special occasions. You’ll be delighted by the intricacies of Bastani Akbar Mashti, Sholeh Zard, Ghotab, and other pastries that rely on the aromatic flavors of rosewater, saffron, almonds, and cardamom.
From simple pleasures to grand celebrations, these Persian desserts offer a world of sweet indulgence.
Noon Khamei
Persian cream puffs are a sweet treat that can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Children delight in filling them with whipped cream, which only adds to their irresistible charm. In Iran, these delicate pastries are known as “Noon E Khamei” or “Naan E Khamei,” literally translating to “whipped cream bread.” To prepare this indulgent dessert, combine water, salt, and butter in a pot over medium heat, stirring until the butter melts.
Once the mixture reaches a boil, remove it from the heat and quickly add sifted flour to create a smooth consistency. The result is a scrumptious treat that can be enjoyed on its own or dipped in syrup or chocolate for an added layer of flavor.
Bastani Akbar Mashti
Indulge in the rich delight of Bastani Akbar Mashti, a sumptuous dessert renowned for its distinctive chewy texture and delicate floral flavors. For those seeking instant gratification, consider infusing the essence into classic vanilla ice cream for a sublime treat. Alternatively, embark on the journey of crafting the entire recipe from scratch, and be amazed by the unparalleled delectability it has to offer.
Persian Love Cake
Indulge in the exotic flavors of Persian Love Cake, where rose water and citrus harmonize to create a delectable treat. This sumptuous dessert boasts a remarkable balance of moisture and lightness, all while being infused with just the right amount of spice. To begin, preheat your oven and prepare a pan by lining it with parchment paper.
Next, combine the butter, oil, eggs, and sugar in a mixing bowl, then take the time to cream these ingredients thoroughly – the longer you mix, the fluffier your cake will ultimately turn out.
Nan-e Berenji
Ancient Persian baking techniques yield delightful treats like Nan-e Berenji, crispy rice biscuits infused with the subtle flavor of poppy seeds. In contrast, these modern shortbread-inspired biscuits are a testament to the versatility of gluten-free and vegan baking. By substituting traditional wheat flour with rice flour and omitting butter altogether, we can create a deliciously crumbly texture that’s just as satisfying.
To start, combine baking powder, cardamom, salt, and rice flour in a medium-sized bowl, stirring until well combined. Meanwhile, blend powdered sugar and the absence of butter in a food processor until silky smooth. Then, slowly merge the two mixtures to form a harmonious batter, ready for shaping into the desired biscuit form.
Sholeh Zard
In the realm of Persian cuisine, Sholezard stands out as a beloved dessert that requires some time to prepare and chill. The name ‘Sholezard’ is derived from Farsi words – ‘Sholeh’ meaning pudding-like texture and ‘Zard’ translating to yellow. This delicate and light-textured pudding is best served in a goblet, garnished with the elegance of pistachios, making it an old-fashioned treat that’s sure to delight.
Sohan-e Qom
Sohan, a Persian delight, reimagines the classic toffee or peanut brittle with the finest Iranian ingredients. This delectable treat is characterized by its buttery, flaky, and crunchy texture, boasting a tried-and-true appeal that has earned it a special place in Persian cuisine. Moreover, the addition of saffron lends an earthy aroma to Sohan, perfectly complementing its rich, deep color, further enhancing its allure.
Ghorabieh Tabriz
In Tabriz’s traditional bakeries, Ghorabieh has been a staple dessert for centuries. Its popularity extends beyond special occasions like weddings and engagement parties, where it’s often served in generous portions to celebrate the union of two families. A classic example is the groom’s family presenting the bride-to-be with large, circular plates piled high with Ghorabieh as a symbol of their love and commitment.
To craft this sweet treat, bakers combine ground almonds, egg whites, sugar, and a touch of cake flour. For those looking to blanch almonds at home, simply place 1 cup in a dish with enough boiling water to cover them, cover the bowl, and let it sit for 10 minutes before proceeding. Blanched almonds are also widely available in supermarkets, typically found in the bread section.
Ghotab / Qottab Pastry
Qottab or Ghotab, two Persian desserts that have gained popularity globally, are rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Iran. Unlike some traditional sweets, these treats can be enjoyed throughout the year, not just limited to special occasions like Nowruz. Initially hailing from the provinces of Yazd and Kerman, they have now become a beloved treat across the country.
The ingredients required to make Qottab are surprisingly simple, including flour, yogurt, egg whites, butter, baking powder, walnuts, and pistachios. To give it that extra oomph, rosewater, cinnamon, and cardamom are used to infuse the flavors.
Koloocheh
In Iran, Koloocheh is a beloved traditional cookie recipe that plays a significant role in the Persian New Year (Nowruz) celebrations. What makes Koloocheh truly special is its regional diversity – each location has its own distinct style of preparation and presentation. One variation, known as Koloocheh-e-Lahijan, hails from Northern Iran’s Lahijan area and boasts a luscious date and walnut filling. To bring this delightful treat to life, start by crafting the rich and flavorful filling.
A food processor is ideal for combining walnuts, dates, caster sugar, rosewater, and salt into a harmonious paste.
Gaz Recipe
In Iran, a sweet treat called Persian Gaz is crafted to mark the celebration of Nowruz, the Persian New Year. Characterized by its inclusion of sugar, egg whites, and toasted nuts, this confectionery delight shares similarities with traditional nougat recipes. A blend of eggs, rose water, corn syrup, sugar, butter, and nuts – including pistachios or roasted almonds as a topping option – makes it accessible to create at home.
Persian Chickpea Cookies (Nan-e-Nokhodchi)
Nan-e Nokhodchi, a delightful treat, combines the earthy essence of cardamom and pistachios with the humble chickpea to create an unparalleled biscuit experience. The delicate texture, courtesy of its fine chickpea flour composition, is simply divine, giving way to a crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth sensation that will leave you craving more.
As a bonus, this delectable cookie boasts an impressive array of dietary benefits: gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making it an excellent option for those with specific requirements or preferences. Yet, do not be deterred by the chickpea’s unconventional presence; rather, allow its unique flavor profile to unfold, harmoniously balanced with rose water, cardamom, and pistachio notes that will surely tantalize your taste buds.
Persian Raisin Cookies
With its ideal texture that perfectly balances crispy edges with soft centers, the Shirini Keshmeshi cookie is a delight to savor. The sweetness of ripe raisins bursts forth on the palate with each bite, adding an extra layer of complexity to this beloved treat. Known as Persian Raisin Cookies, Shirini Keshmeshi has earned its place in the hearts and stomachs of Persian children, not unlike American youngsters who can’t get enough of chocolate chip cookies.
Interestingly, ‘Shirini’ is a generic term that refers to any type of Persian pastry, while ‘Shirin’ literally translates to ‘sweet’, giving a glimpse into the cookie’s delightful essence.
Persian Mulberry Marzipan Candy (Toot)
In Persian culture, the term Toot refers to both the mulberry fruit and a traditional marzipan sweet originating from Persia. This delicacy is crafted in the shape of the mulberry fruit itself, requiring only five core ingredients. The foundation of these sweets is formed by pulverized almonds (marzipan) and sugar, carefully molded into the distinctive mulberry form.
Persian Cupcakes (Cake Yazdi)
These bite-sized Persian love cake cupcakes are miniature versions of classic cakes, packed with flavors that will transport you to the Middle East. The combination of rose, sweetness, and a hint of salt from the pistachio topping is nothing short of magical. Shirini Yazdi, on the other hand, is more like a fluffy cardamom muffin infused with the subtle aroma of rosewater. Typically, these sweet treats are enjoyed with a glass of cold milk, adding to their nostalgic charm.
What makes them truly special is the cornstarch in the dough, which gives them a soft and airy interior, while maintaining a satisfying crunch on the outside.
Khagineh
Khagineh, an Iranian snack, offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed with tea in the afternoon or as a satisfying morning treat. This beloved Azerbaijani dish has gained popularity among Iranians and Azari people alike. The origins of Khagineh can be traced back to its name, which is derived from the Azari word ‘Khagh’, meaning ‘egg’. As such, eggs are the primary component of this sweet Persian omelet, also resembling a pancake in texture.
The result is a light, airy, and effortless snack that is sure to please.
Baghlava
Baklava, often referred to as Baghlava, is a renowned Persian pastry that boasts an intricate construction and delectable flavors. This sweet treat is typically enjoyed with a warm cup of Persian tea, allowing its rich aromas and textures to unfold. As you savor each bite, the sensory experience will transport you to the vibrant streets of Iran. At its core lies layers of flaky phyllo dough, crunchy almonds, and a drizzle of honey syrup.
To create this masterpiece, begin by stacking eight sheets of butter-coated phyllo dough, providing a sturdy foundation for the sweet and nutty elements that follow. A sprinkle of chopped nuts and cinnamon adds depth to the dish, while two additional sheets of phyllo dough and a final layer of nut mixture bring the Baklava together.
Zoolbia Bamieh
Imagine a culinary fusion that combines two delectable fried delights, Zoolbia and Bamieh, in perfect harmony. Zoolbia is a sweet and crispy spiral-shaped fritter made from mildly fermented flour, its unique flavor profile inviting you to take another bite. In contrast, Bamieh boasts a choux pastry-like dough reminiscent of a churro, adding an extra layer of texture and indulgence.
When combined, these two treats create a delightful experience for your taste buds, a true gastronomic fusion that will leave you wanting more.
Shir Berenj
In the realm of Persian cuisine, Shir Berenj, a delectable milk and rice pudding, holds a special place in celebrations and festivities, particularly during weddings. This sweet indulgence requires only a handful of effortless ingredients, making it a quick delight to prepare and serve.
Delicious Halva Pudding Persian Style
Kachi, a unique variation of traditional halwa pudding, stands out with its distinct combination of saffron and rose water. To elevate its flavor and texture, it’s essential to top it with a crunchy mixture of sesame seeds and pistachios. Halva, in fact, is a beloved dessert in the Middle East, where various types are made using tahini or semolina flour.
The Persian rendition of this sweet treat, however, relies on a special blend of flour, butter, and sugar, infused with the intoxicating aroma of rosewater.
The bottom line
For those seeking culinary innovation, this compilation of classic recipes is an exciting discovery. Explore the rich cultural heritage of Persian sweets by diving into this extensive list of 19 mouthwatering treats. From traditional to modern twists, these authentic desserts are sure to tantalize your taste buds and inspire new creations!
