Greek Desserts

Blue sky, white homes nestled among rolling hills and of course the history. That is what most sees when they hear Greece. But the foods are also something that everyone should try - especially the desserts. According to the Ultimate Guide to Greek Food by Kali Orexi, many of the Greek desserts are of Eastern influence and often referred to as sweets instead of desserts. They are usually not served after dinner and are often served on special occasions. The desserts are most often served with strong coffee to allow the person to fully experience the sweet itself.

Greek desserts - sweets - are heavy with sugar, nuts and honey syrup although they are light in texture, but not in flavor. The pastry that is most prevalent is phillo (or fillo) which is a tissue thin dough that when baked turns golden brown and has a crisp light texture. Further, Greek cuisine enjoys fruits that are in season as dessert.

This article showcases four of the most recognized and well-known of Greek desserts with the help of Sinbad Sweets and the article entitled Ultimate Guide to Greek Food. The recipes for these desserts can be found at www.foodtv.com or www.recipezaar.com. Enjoy the taste of history and sun drenched lands.

1. Baklava. The most well known and most ancient of Greek desserts. It can be found at any specialty shop or even the local mega mart. Four ingredients of phillo dough, walnuts (sometimes pistachios are used), butter and honey syrup are used to make up this sweet crispy dessert. There can also be a hint of cinnamon lingering on the back of one's palette.

2. Yiaourti Me Meli (Greek yogurt with honey). This dessert is mentioned by Homer as "food of the gods" and has been around since ancient times. A simple dessert yet it is complex in flavor. Drizzle honey of your choice over thick Greek yogurt and enjoy. Add a few chopped nuts to add a bit of crunch and a new layer of flavor.

3. Kourabiethes (Sugar Almond Cookie). These little cookies are served most often at Christmas time. Not only are they a crunchy and buttery sugar cookie, there is a treat inside - pieces of toasted almonds. These cookies and thick with powdered sugar and flavor. Children of all ages devour them when they are made.

4. Karythopita (Walnut Cake). This light and spongy cake is chocked full of walnut and honey that can be found in almost all of Greek desserts. The cake once baked is drenched with honey syrup and the cake soaks it up. The longer the cake sits, the better it will be as more honey is absorbed (if it lasts that long).