Helva (Sweet Semolina Dessert)
Helva is a delightful sweet semolina dessert that captures the essence of comfort food with its rich, nutty aroma and velvety texture. This easy-to-make treat combines toasted semolina with a buttery syrup and aromatic spices, creating a dish that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy family nights. Whether served warm or chilled, Helva will impress your guests with its gorgeous golden hue and irresistible flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Toasting
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup fine semolina
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios or almonds
Instructions
- 1. Toast the Semolina: In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the semolina and stir constantly until golden brown.
- 2. Prepare the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine water and sugar. Boil while stirring until dissolved. Add cinnamon and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- 3. Combine Ingredients: Gradually pour the syrup into the toasted semolina while stirring continuously until well combined.
- 4. Add Nuts: Gently fold in chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
- 5. Set Helva: Transfer to a greased dish, spread evenly, and cool for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
- 6. Serve: Enjoy warm or chilled, garnished with extra nuts or honey if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approximately 75g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg