Description
Cezerye with Hazelnut is a traditional Turkish confection made from sweetened carrots, roasted hazelnuts, and spices. Coated in shredded coconut, it’s a healthy and indulgent dessert that pairs perfectly with tea or makes a great gift. This vegan treat offers a chewy base with a nutty crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 large carrots, finely grated
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup roasted hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut, plus more for coating
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the grated carrots and water. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots soften and the liquid reduces.
- Add the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground cloves (if using), and lemon juice to the carrots. Stir frequently and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until it thickens and becomes jam-like in consistency.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and roasted hazelnuts. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until everything is well incorporated, and the mixture begins to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Transfer the mixture to a parchment-lined square dish or tray, pressing it into an even layer that’s about 1 inch thick.
- Allow the mixture to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for about 2 hours, or until it sets and firms up.
- Once the Cezerye is set, cut it into squares or rectangles.
- Roll each piece in additional shredded coconut to coat, ensuring every piece is fully covered.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature with a cup of tea or Turkish coffee. Store any leftover Cezerye hazelnut in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Notes
- For a different flavor, swap hazelnuts for walnuts or pistachios.
- Toast the shredded coconut before coating for a deeper flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the carrot mixture for a citrusy twist.
- Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Can be refrigerated to keep extra firm.
- Can be frozen for up to 1 month, thawing at room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Turkish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg