In the spirit of the holiday season, we are excited to share with you a delightful Christmas baking recipe that combines the rich flavors of honey, walnuts, and sesame seeds – Pasteli Me Karydia Walnut Pasteli Bars. These traditional Greek treats are perfect for festive gatherings, adding a touch of Mediterranean flair to your holiday spread. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a taste of Greece to your holiday celebrations!
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup walnuts, chopped
– 1 cup sesame seeds
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In a separate skillet, toast the sesame seeds until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir constantly to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, water, lemon zest, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 275°F (135°C) on a candy thermometer. This should take about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove the honey mixture from heat and stir in the toasted walnuts and sesame seeds until well combined.
5. Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal later.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
7. Let the mixture cool and set at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
8. Once set, use the parchment paper to lift the mixture out of the dish. Cut into bars or squares of your desired size.
9. Serve these delicious Pasteli Me Karydia Walnut Pasteli Bars on a festive platter and enjoy the sweet, nutty flavors of this traditional Greek treat.
Experience the joy of Christmas with these delightful Walnut Pasteli Bars, perfect for sharing with loved ones or gifting as a thoughtful homemade treat. They not only bring a taste of Greece to your holiday celebrations but also add a touch of elegance to your dessert table. We hope this recipe brings warmth and comfort to your home during this festive season. Happy baking!
