As the sun dips below the horizon and the kitchen fills with warmth, I often find myself craving something sweet yet uncomplicated. That’s where my love for Greek Sesame Candy with Honey, or Pasteli, comes in. Just two simple ingredients, sesame seeds and golden honey, come together to create a satisfying treat that’s both crunchy and chewy—perfect for curbing those late-night snack cravings!
The first time I made this delightful candy, I was surprised by how easy it was to whip up while enjoying a glass of wine with friends. This treat not only offers a taste of Mediterranean sun but also feels indulgently satisfying without the guilt. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack to share during a cozy gathering or a healthy boost when energy dips, this candy checks all the boxes.
Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into this quick, 2-ingredient recipe that transforms pantry staples into a delicious masterpiece!
Why love 2-Ingredient Greek Candy?
Simplicity at Its Finest: With just two essential ingredients—sesame seeds and honey—this delightful recipe makes it incredibly easy to whip up a batch in no time.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy a sweet treat that satisfies cravings without any added sugar or preservatives.
Mediterranean Flair: Bring a taste of the Mediterranean into your kitchen, perfect for impressing family and friends.
Versatile Snack: Great on its own or paired with Greek yogurt and fresh fruits for a wholesome boost.
Crowd Pleaser: This candy is sure to delight guests at gatherings or serve as a perfect shareable snack.
Try it today and discover how simple yet delicious this 2-Ingredient Greek Candy can be!
Essential 2-Ingredient Greek Candy Ingredients
For the Candy
- Untoasted Sesame Seeds – Offers a nutty crunch; ensure they are fresh for optimal flavor.
- Honey – Acts as the sweetener and binder; using a high-quality honey will elevate the taste of your candy.
For Greasing
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Use to coat your pan and prevent sticking, ensuring perfect slices of your delicious candy.
Embrace the Mediterranean sun with this 2-Ingredient Greek Candy that brings simplicity and delightful flavors to your snacking!
How to Make 2-Ingredient Greek Candy
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Prepare the Pan: Line a small sheet pan with parchment paper and brush it lightly with extra virgin olive oil for easy removal later.
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Toast the Seeds: In a nonstick pan over medium heat, toast the untoasted sesame seeds. Stir continuously until they turn golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer them to a cool plate.
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Heat the Honey: Pour the honey into the same pan, stirring constantly. Heat it until it bubbles and reaches 250°F, which should take around 3-4 minutes.
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Combine Mixtures: Add the toasted sesame seeds back into the pan with the honey. Stir constantly for about 5 minutes to ensure an even coating.
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Spread and Cool: Pour the mixture onto the prepared sheet pan. Smooth it out, cover with a piece of greased parchment paper, and flatten it down. Allow to cool for 20 minutes before slicing into bars.
Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before it cools for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for 2-Ingredient Greek Candy
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Quality Ingredients: Always use fresh untoasted sesame seeds and high-quality honey, as they significantly impact the overall flavor and texture of your 2-ingredient Greek candy.
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Watch the Temperature: Use a candy thermometer to ensure the honey reaches 250°F. This prevents burning and ensures the perfect chewy texture for your candy.
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Avoid Over-Toasting: Stir the sesame seeds continuously while toasting to prevent them from turning bitter. They should just be golden brown for the best flavor.
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Grease Well: Coat your parchment paper with olive oil generously before pouring in the mixture. This helps avoid any frustration during slicing.
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Cool Completely: Let the candy cool completely before slicing. This ensures that it holds its shape well and makes it easier to cut into perfect bars.
What to Serve with 2-Ingredient Greek Candy?
Elevate your snacking experience with delightful pairings that complement the elegant sweetness of this candy.
- Greek Yogurt: The creaminess of Greek yogurt balances the candy’s crunch, creating a satisfying and nourishing snack.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Vibrant, juicy fruits like berries and citrus enhance the flavors while adding a refreshing contrast.
- Herbal Tea: A cup of soothing herbal tea provides warmth and depth, allowing the candy’s sweetness to shine.
- Cheese Platter: Pair with creamy cheeses like feta or ricotta for a wonderful blend of flavors and textures.
- Nuts & Dried Fruits: A mix of nuts and dried fruits creates a crunchy and nutritious snack, enhancing the Mediterranean vibe.
- Dark Chocolate: Tempting dark chocolate complements the candy’s honey sweetness, offering a decadent touch for special occasions.
- Honey Drizzle: A simple drizzle of honey over yogurt or fruit brings an extra touch of indulgence.
- Chia Pudding: Layer the candy with chia pudding for a nutritious dessert that’s visually stunning and texturally fun.
- Sparkling Water: A splash of sparkling water adds a refreshing effervescence, making every bite feel special.
- Mint Leaves: Fresh mint adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to your serving presentation.
Storage Tips for 2-Ingredient Greek Candy
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Room Temperature: Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week for optimal freshness and flavor.
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Fridge: If you prefer a chewier texture, refrigerate the candy in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the candy in a well-sealed container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
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Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this treat; simply enjoy as is, or add to yogurt for a nutritious snack!
Make Ahead Options
These 2-Ingredient Greek Candy bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can toast the sesame seeds and prepare the honey mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store each component in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble, combine the toasted seeds and honey in a pan as per the recipe. This method not only saves you prep time but also ensures the bars maintain their delightful crunch and chewiness. Just follow through with the final steps—pouring and cooling the mixture—before slicing, and you’ll have a delicious snack ready to enjoy with minimal effort!
Variations & Substitutions for 2-Ingredient Greek Candy
Explore delightful twists on this classic recipe, transforming your 2-Ingredient Greek Candy into a unique treat!
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts for extra crunch. Walnuts or pistachios pair beautifully with the sesame seeds, enhancing flavor and texture.
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Cocoa Infusion: Mix in unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor. Just a tablespoon gives this treat a delightful twist.
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Citrus Zest: Grate a little orange or lemon zest into the mixture for a refreshing citrus kick. The brightness will elevate the flavor profile beautifully!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground cinnamon for a surprising heat or warmth. This unexpected addition brings a unique depth to the candy’s sweetness.
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Dried Fruit Surprise: Incorporate chopped dried fruits like apricots or figs for natural sweetness and a chewy texture. This twist adds a wonderful Mediterranean touch.
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Flavorful Extracts: A splash of vanilla or almond extract can elevate the flavor even further. Just a few drops will make your candy feel more indulgent!
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Protein Boost: Consider adding protein powder to the sesame seeds before mixing them with honey. This adds a nutritional punch without compromising on flavor.
With these variations, you can keep your 2-Ingredient Greek Candy fresh and exciting while catering to your taste buds! Enjoy customizing!
2-Ingredient Greek Candy Recipe FAQs
What type of sesame seeds should I use for the candy?
It’s best to use fresh untoasted sesame seeds that are free of dark spots for optimal flavor and texture. The fresher the seed, the crunchier your candy will be!
How should I store my 2-Ingredient Greek Candy?
Store your candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer a chewier texture, you can refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. For long-term storage, freeze the candy in a well-sealed container for up to 3 months. Remember to thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I freeze the 2-Ingredient Greek Candy?
Absolutely! To freeze, cut the candy into bars and place them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap before putting them into a freezer bag. This makes it easy to grab a piece whenever you want a guilt-free treat! Just make sure to consume them within 3 months for the best quality.
What should I do if my sesame seeds burn while toasting?
If your sesame seeds start to burn, you’ll know by their dark color and bitter smell. It’s important to stir constantly while toasting to prevent this. If they do burn, it’s best to start over with new seeds; the burnt flavor will overwhelm your candy.
Can I add other ingredients like nuts or salt?
Of course! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts for added texture or sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the candy before it cools to enhance the flavors. Just remember that the simplicity of the 2-Ingredient Greek Candy lets those core flavors shine, so keep it balanced and enjoy experimenting!
2-Ingredient Greek Candy: Quick Guilt-Free Snacking Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line a small sheet pan with parchment paper and brush it lightly with extra virgin olive oil.
- In a nonstick pan over medium heat, toast the untoasted sesame seeds, stirring continuously until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour the honey into the same pan and heat until it bubbles and reaches 250°F, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the toasted sesame seeds back into the pan with the honey and stir constantly for about 5 minutes.
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared sheet pan. Smooth it out, cover with greased parchment paper, and flatten it down. Allow to cool for 20 minutes before slicing.