Name: Irresistible Cranberry-Rose Turkish Delight Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 cup (240ml) cranberry juice; 1 cup (240ml) water; 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice; 1 tablespoon (15ml) rose water; 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (65g) cornstarch; Powdered sugar for dusting; 1/4 cup (30g) chopped dried cranberries; 1/4 cup (30g) pistachios

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Introduction

Discover the delicate charm of our Irresistible Cranberry-Rose Turkish Delight. This homemade treat blends tart cranberry with fragrant rose water for a delightfully chewy and aromatic candy that’s perfect for sharing or gifting.

The image shows a white plate with a thin gold rim filled with pinkish-red Turkish delight cubes stacked in two layers. Each cube is dusted with white powdered sugar and has a soft, translucent texture with visible embedded dark red fruit pieces inside. Scattered around the base of the cubes are whole dark red cherries and green pistachio nuts, adding vibrant contrast. The plate sits on a clean white marbled surface, and the soft lighting highlights the powdery texture and jewel-like shine of the treats. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup (240ml) cranberry juice
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice
1/2 cup (65g) cornstarch
1 cup (240ml) water
1 tablespoon (15ml) rose water
1/4 cup (30g) chopped dried cranberries (optional)
1/4 cup (30g) pistachios (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly dust the surface with powdered sugar.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup (65g) cornstarch and 1 cup (240ml) water until smooth. Set aside.
Step 3: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberry juice, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat while stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 4: Gradually whisk the cornstarch mixture into the cranberry mixture. Reduce the heat to low and stir continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy, about 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in the rose water, adjusting the amount to your taste preference.
Step 6: If desired, fold in chopped dried cranberries and/or pistachios for extra texture and flavor.
Step 7: Pour the thickened mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Let it cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm.
Step 8: Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the Turkish delight from the pan. Dust generously with powdered sugar and cut into small squares with a sharp knife.
Step 9: Toss the squares in additional powdered sugar to coat all sides before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, omit pistachios and consider adding chopped candied ginger or rose petals instead.
Use high-quality rose water for the best aroma; start with less and add gradually to avoid overpowering the delicate cranberry flavor.
Dust your knife with powdered sugar before cutting to prevent sticking and ensure clean edges.

Storage

Store the Turkish delight in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Keep it separated with parchment paper to prevent the pieces from sticking together. If dusting wears off, simply re-dust with powdered sugar before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with a gold rim holding five square pieces of layered dessert. Each piece has three main layers: the bottom layer is white and smooth, the middle layer is a mixed swirl of white and red, and the top layer is a solid deep red color. The top is dusted with white powdered sugar and sprinkled with small green bits, likely crushed pistachios. Surrounding the dessert pieces on the plate are fresh, dark red cranberries. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with soft, warm lights blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of cranberry juice?

Fresh cranberries are too tart and not liquid enough for this recipe. It’s best to use cranberry juice for the right consistency and sweetness.

Why is my Turkish delight sticky after cutting?

If it’s sticky, it may need more powdered sugar coating or slightly longer chilling time. Make sure to dust the knife with powdered sugar to get clean cuts.