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turkish delight

Easy Homemade Turkish Delight (Lokum) Without Corn Syrup

Soft, chewy homemade Turkish delight made without corn syrup using sugar, cornstarch, and rose flavor. A simple, beginner-friendly traditional sweet perfect for gifting.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 30 pieces
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Turkish
Calories: 80
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Sugar Syrup Base
  • 4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ cups water
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
Starch Base
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1 ½ cups water
Flavouring
  • 1-2 tsp rose water
  • ½ tsp cream of tartar optional
  • Pink food color optional
Coating
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ cup cornstarch

Method
 

  1. Line a tray with parchment paper and dust with powdered sugar + cornstarch mix.
  2. In a pan, heat sugar, water, and lemon juice until it reaches a thick syrup (soft-ball stage).
  3. In another pan, cook cornstarch mixed with water on low heat until it becomes a thick, smooth gel.
  4. Slowly combine the sugar syrup into the cornstarch mixture while stirring continuously.
  5. Cook on low heat for 45-60 minutes until thick, elastic, and pulling away from the pan.
  6. Add rose water and optional food coloring. Mix well.
  7. Pour into tray, smooth surface, and let set for 6-8 hours or overnight.
  8. Cut into cubes and coat with powdered sugar & cornstarch mixture.

Notes

  • Texture depends heavily on reaching proper syrup consistency.
  • Low heat is essential throughout cooking.
  • Coating prevents sticking and preserves shape.
  • Best consumed within 2-3 weeks in an airtight container.