Loukoumi Geroskipou with a Twist

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 cup (240ml) honey 1 cup (240ml) honey
• 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (120g) cornstarch 1 cup (120g) cornstarch
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, for dusting 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 28g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, honey, lemon juice, orange zest, and lemon zest. Stir well and bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. 3.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. 4.
   Gradually whisk in the cornstarch until smooth and well combined.
5. 5.
   Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 10-15 minutes.
6. 6.
   Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
7. 7.
   Line a square baking dish with parchment paper and pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
8. 8.
   Let the mixture cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
9. 9.
   Once set, remove the loukoumi from the baking dish and cut it into bite-sized squares.
10. 10.
    Dust each square with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Honey — Use a high-quality honey for the best flavor. Opt for a floral or citrus-infused honey to enhance the taste of the loukoumi.

Tips & Tricks

• To add a touch of elegance, you can garnish the loukoumi squares with edible rose petals or chopped pistachios.
• For a variation, you can substitute the citrus zest with other flavors such as lavender or almond extract.
• Store the loukoumi in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Serving advice

Serve the Loukoumi Geroskipou as a delightful after-dinner treat or alongside a cup of Greek coffee or herbal tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the dusted loukoumi squares on a platter, sprinkling some additional powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of elegance. You can also serve them in decorative paper cups for a charming presentation.