There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, and one of the best ways to celebrate is by indulging in delicious traditional treats. In Greece, Christmas is the perfect time to whip up some homemade Pasteli Honey and Sesame Bars. These delightful bars are not only a taste of Greece but also a wholesome and satisfying snack that will fill your home with warmth and festive spirit. The combination of sweet honey and nutty sesame seeds creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that will surely enchant your taste buds. Let’s dive into this delightful Greek Christmas baking recipe!
Pasteli Honey and Sesame Bars
Ingredients:
– 1 cup honey
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 cups sesame seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Parchment paper
Instructions:
1. Begin by toasting the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes or until they turn golden brown and become fragrant. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent burning. Once toasted, set aside to cool.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the sugar and honey over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture starts to bubble. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature and cook the syrup until it reaches 300°F (150°C). This will take about 10-15 minutes.
3. Once the syrup reaches the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the toasted sesame seeds, cinnamon, and lemon zest. Stir well to ensure that all the sesame seeds are well coated with the honey syrup.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and transfer the mixture onto the prepared sheet. Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly, pressing it down to compact the bars.
5. While the mixture is still warm but cool enough to handle, use a greased knife to cut the mixture into individual bars or squares. You can shape them according to your preference, whether you prefer bars or bite-sized squares.
6. Allow the Pasteli Honey and Sesame Bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled and set, carefully remove them from the parchment paper and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
These delightful Pasteli Honey and Sesame Bars are not only a wonderful treat for Christmas but also make a lovely homemade gift for your friends and family. Enjoy the nutty crunch of sesame seeds combined with the sweetness of honey in every bite. These bars are perfect for serving with a cup of hot tea or coffee, or to simply enjoy as a snack during the festive season.
Get into the Christmas spirit by creating these delightful Greek treats that are sure to become a holiday favorite in your home. Share the joy of the season through the delicious taste of Pasteli Honey and Sesame Bars. Happy baking!
