With Christmas around the corner, it’s the perfect time to bring new flavors and traditions to the table. Halvas Fournou, a delicious Greek Christmas baking recipe, is a delightful treat that will fill your home with the warm and cozy aromas of the holiday season. This aromatic and comforting baked semolina dessert is a popular choice in Greek households during this festive time of year. It’s a sweet and satisfying dish that will surely impress your loved ones and guests.
**Halvas Fournou Baked Semolina Dessert**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup semolina
– 1 cup sugar
– 3 cups water
– 1 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup golden raisins
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/2 cup honey
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil and semolina. Stir constantly for about 10 minutes until the semolina turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma.
3. Slowly add in the water, while stirring continuously to avoid any lumps forming. Be careful as the mixture may splatter.
4. Add the sugar, chopped almonds, golden raisins, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and orange zest. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the surface with a spatula.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crusty.
7. While the halvas is baking, heat the honey in a small saucepan over low heat until it becomes runny.
8. Once the halvas is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
9. Drizzle the warm honey over the baked semolina dessert, allowing it to seep into the crevices.
10. Serve the Halvas Fournou warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
This Halvas Fournou recipe is a wonderful way to embrace the holiday spirit with a touch of Greek tradition. The nutty semolina base paired with the sweetness of honey and the warmth of spices creates an irresistible dessert that is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you serve it as a sweet ending to a festive meal or enjoy it with a cup of hot tea on a cozy evening, this Greek Christmas treat is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday celebrations. Try making this Halvas Fournou and let the delightful aromas and flavors transport you to the heart of a Greek Christmas tradition.
