A Taste of Tradition: 10 Turkish Desserts You Need to Try in Istanbul
Anasayfa | Blog
When it comes to dessert, few cuisines rival the variety, depth, and history of Turkish sweets. Rooted in centuries of culinary tradition and influenced by Ottoman court kitchens, Turkish desserts are as much a cultural expression as they are a treat for the senses. Whether you have a sweet tooth or are simply curious about what to eat in Istanbul, discovering Turkish desserts is a must-do experience.
At Ruvia Restaurant, located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district, guests are invited to experience authentic Turkish flavors — including a selection of timeless desserts made with passion and tradition.
1- Baklava: The Iconic Layered Pastry
Arguably the most famous Turkish dessert, baklava is made from thin layers of phyllo dough, filled with crushed pistachios or walnuts, and soaked in a light sugar syrup. Each bite delivers a crunchy, nutty, and sweet sensation that has captivated dessert lovers for centuries.
At Ruvia Restaurant, our chefs prepare baklava fresh with premium pistachios from Gaziantep, offering a luxurious take on this classic treat.
2- Künefe: A Hot, Cheesy Surprise
Originating from southeastern Turkey, künefe is a warm dessert made with shredded kadayıf pastry, filled with gooey melted cheese, and topped with syrup and crushed pistachios. The contrast of textures and temperatures makes it unlike anything else.
Tip: Order künefe after dinner at Ruvia and pair it with traditional Turkish tea for a perfect finish to your meal.
3- Sütlaç: Turkish Rice Pudding
Sütlaç is a creamy and delicate rice pudding baked in clay pots until it forms a caramelized top layer. Mildly sweet and beautifully simple, it’s a nostalgic dessert for many Turkish families.
Ruvia’s version adds a modern twist with a touch of vanilla bean and seasonal fruit garnish.
4- Lokum: The Delight of Turkish Delight
Known globally as Turkish delight, lokum is a soft, chewy sweet traditionally flavored with rosewater, citrus, or pomegranate and dusted with powdered sugar. It’s often served as a welcoming gesture with coffee or tea.
Popular flavors to try:
- Rose
- Pistachio
- Lemon
- Pomegranate
At Ruvia, we offer an artisanal lokum selection as a complimentary treat to our guests.
5- Revani: Semolina Cake in Syrup
Revani is a light semolina cake soaked in lemon-scented syrup. Moist, zesty, and perfectly sweet, it’s a refreshing alternative to heavier desserts.
This lesser-known gem is a favorite on Ruvia’s dessert menu — especially for guests seeking something traditional yet light.
6- Aşure: The Dessert of Peace and Sharing
Also known as Noah’s Pudding, aşure is a symbolic dessert made with grains, legumes, dried fruits, and nuts. It's traditionally prepared in large batches and shared with neighbors and family.
Though seasonal, aşure is occasionally featured at Ruvia during special events or religious holidays.
7- Tavuk Göğsü: The Dessert with Chicken (Yes, Really!)
This intriguing Ottoman dessert, tavuk göğsü, is a creamy milk pudding made with finely shredded chicken breast. Don’t let the name scare you — the chicken is flavorless and adds a silky texture.
At Ruvia, we serve a refined version of tavuk göğsü that balances history with modern presentation.
8- Kazandibi: Caramelized Milk Pudding
Kazandibi, meaning "bottom of the pot," is a caramelized version of milk pudding, offering a slightly burnt, chewy top layer with a creamy underside. It’s a beloved dessert for its unique flavor and texture.
Served chilled, kazandibi is a cooling and satisfying end to a spicy Turkish meal.
9- Helva: Warm and Comforting
There are several types of helva in Turkish cuisine, from tahini-based versions to warm semolina helva cooked with butter and pine nuts. Often served at significant moments in Turkish culture, helva is both a comfort food and a spiritual tradition.
You can occasionally find semolina helva at Ruvia, especially on winter nights.
10- Dondurma: Turkish Ice Cream with a Stretch
Unlike Western ice cream, Turkish dondurma is thick, chewy, and resistant to melting, thanks to ingredients like salep (orchid root flour). Often served by playful street vendors, it’s a fun and tasty experience.
In summer, Ruvia offers artisanal dondurma alongside classic desserts — try it with baklava for a divine pairing.
Why Turkish Desserts Deserve Your Attention
Turkish desserts aren’t just about sugar — they’re about culture, heritage, and hospitality. From delicate puddings to syrup-soaked pastries, each sweet has a story to tell. Trying them is a way to connect with the people and traditions of this vibrant city.
At Ruvia Restaurant, we celebrate this rich dessert culture by offering a curated dessert menu that reflects the best of Turkish culinary heritage. Whether you’re winding down after a day of sightseeing or indulging in a special dinner, our dessert selections promise to end your meal on the sweetest note.
Visiting Istanbul? Don’t leave without experiencing the magic of Turkish sweets. And if you’re near Sultanahmet, there’s no better place to explore these flavors than Ruvia Restaurant — where tradition meets taste, and every dessert tells a story.