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–+ servings
Turkish Delights from Lucy Dowd
This cherry-flavored version of Turkish Delight is a nostalgic and simplified American adaptation of the classic Middle Eastern confection. Instead of the traditional cornstarch method, this recipe uses flavored gelatin and applesauce as its base, adding sweetness and structure with sugar and chopped nuts. These treats are coated in sugar, giving them their signature sparkle and chewy texture. Popular in mid-20th-century community cookbooks, this version was shared by a member of a New Jersey women’s circle, making it a delightful piece of local history and sweet Americana.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Chilling Time 1 day
Total Time 1 day 35 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine Fusion
Servings 36 delights
Calories 85 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 oz cherry-flavored gelatin (3 oz)
  • 1 cup applesauce (v)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ⅔ cup nuts (chopped, e.g., walnuts or pecans)
  • Extra granulated sugar for coating

Instructions
 

Step 1: Dissolve Gelatin

  • Heat applesauce in a saucepan until hot.
  • Add cherry gelatin and stir until fully dissolved.

Step 2: Add Sugar and Nuts

  • Stir in sugar over low heat.
  • Continue stirring until sugar is completely dissolved.
  • Blend in chopped nuts.

Step 3: Pour and Chill

  • Pour the mixture into a greased 9x5x3-inch loaf pan.
  • Refrigerate until firm (several hours or overnight).

Step 4: Cut and Coat

  • Cut into squares.
  • Roll each square in granulated sugar.
  • Let pieces set out for 24 hours.
  • Roll in sugar again before serving.

Tips

  • Use different gelatin flavors (orange, lemon, raspberry) for variety
  • Toast the chopped nuts lightly for deeper flavor
  • Line the loaf pan with parchment for easier removal
  • Cut with a lightly oiled knife for cleaner edges
  • Roll pieces in powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar for a softer coating
  • Add shredded coconut to the sugar coating
  • For firmer texture, allow an extra 12 hours of chilling
  • Use unsweetened applesauce to slightly reduce sweetness
  • Cut into diamonds instead of squares for a traditional look

Nutrition

Calories: 85kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 1gFat: 1.5gSaturated Fat: 0.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.7gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.5gSodium: 35mgPotassium: 55mgFiber: 0.8gSugar: 17gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 12mgIron: 0.4mg
Keyword fruit-flavored sweets, gelatin dessert, holiday treat, homemade candy, nostalgic dessert, retro recipe, vintage candy
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