27 Best Mediterranean Desserts and Sweets

Ready to mix things up for dessert? These Mediterranean treats are about to become your new favorites! From creamy Greek desserts to Italian delights, they’re packed with flavors you’ll love.

1.Greek Lemon Olive Oil Cake

This cake isn’t your average sugary treat. It strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tart, with a refreshing citrus kick from fresh lemon. The zesty aromas of lemon shine brightly, while the subtle earthiness of olive oil adds depth to each bite.

To take it up a notch, a sweet glaze is the perfect finishing touch–it’s optional, but it brings an extra layer of flavor and moisture to the cake.

2.Croatian Madjarica

Imagine a pastry that brings together the best of both worlds–flaky layers and a sweet, indulgent filling. This chocolate slice is a layered masterpiece, and it’s a bit different from the Australian version you might know.

Instead of mixing everything together, you layer the cake with the filling, creating a fun and eye-catching color contrast that makes it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

3.Chocolate-Dipped Almond Biscotti

Meet your new favorite treat: chocolate-dipped almond biscotti. Crunchy, flavorful, and perfect for dunking in your morning coffee or enjoying as an afternoon snack.

These biscotti are hard to resist, with their nutty almond flavor and rich chocolate coating. Plus, they stay fresh for ages on the counter and make a perfect edible gift for the holidays.

4.Pistachio Tahini Halva

If you’re into sweet and nutty treats, you’re in the right place! This halva is all about that dense and crumbly texture that makes every bite super satisfying.

Perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, it’s a simple yet delicious way to treat yourself. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors that’s sure to hit the spot.

5.Cannoli

Confession time: I’m absolutely obsessed with cannoli. If you’ve ever had the real deal, you get it. There’s just something irresistible about those crispy, fried shells stuffed with a creamy, sweet ricotta filling.

And let’s not forget the flavor options–while I have a soft spot for the classic version loaded with orange zest and mini chocolate chips, there are so many delicious variations to explore.

Whether you’re a cannoli newbie or a long-time lover, this Sicilian treat is sure to hit the spot every time.

6.Kanafeh

Shredded phyllo dough might seem tricky, but it’s actually a breeze to work with once you get the hang of it. Imagine a dessert where the dough is shredded into thin, golden strands.

These strands are then filled with a rich, creamy cheese that adds a velvety texture. The finishing touch? A drizzle of sweet, sticky syrup that perfectly balances the savory elements.

The result is a treat that’s super crunchy on top and deliciously sticky at the bottom. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will have you coming back for more.

If you love sweet and savory together, this is a must-try!

7.Coconut Pistachio Cake

Attention, dessert fans! This coconut pistachio cake is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. With its irresistible mix of sweet coconut and crunchy pistachios, it tastes just as amazing as it looks.

Plus, the recipe is a breeze to follow, using simple ingredients and straightforward steps. You’ll love every bite of this unique dessert!

8.Traditional Greek Galaktouboureko

Imagine a dessert that layers phyllo dough with a creamy custard and drizzles it all in syrup. Sounds amazing, right? This treat is sweet, creamy, and surprisingly easy to make.

The thin phyllo layers crisp up perfectly, creating a delightful contrast to the silky custard. And let’s not forget the syrup–it adds just the right touch of sweetness to every bite.

9.Tiramisu

Tiramisu is one of Italy’s most famous desserts, and for good reason. With its strong coffee flavor, it’s definitely more of a grown-up treat. But let’s be honest–what’s not to love? The smooth, creamy texture and rich, coffee-forward flavor make it a worldwide favorite.

I can’t get enough of the coffee-soaked sponge layers paired with the indulgent mascarpone and whipped cream. It’s a match made in dessert heaven!

10.Imqaret

Meet Imqaret, a classic Maltese sweet treat that’s impossible to resist. These bite-sized, diamond-shaped pastries are filled with a delicious blend of dates, flour, and warm spices.

The anisette adds a subtle herbal note that perfectly balances the sweetness. It’s a traditional delight that’s both flavorful and irresistibly charming!

11.Dark Chocolate Olive Oil Cake

Indulge in this rich and decadent cake that simply melts in your mouth. What makes it special? The olive oil and dark chocolate team up to create a deep, complex flavor that’s nothing short of amazing.

Worried the olive oil might be too strong? Don’t be! It adds a subtle fruitiness that perfectly complements the bitterness of the chocolate. Serve it with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate treat.

12.Baklava

Imagine layers of crispy phyllo pastry packed with a delicious mix of ground nuts, warm cinnamon, and aromatic cloves. But wait, there’s more! This treat is then smothered in a sweet and tangy syrup made with sugar, honey, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

The spices add a rich depth to the nutty flavors, while the lemon syrup provides the perfect balance of sweetness and zing. It’s a delightful harmony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more!

13.Kourabiedes

If you’re a fan of sweet treats, kourabiedes are sure to hit the spot. These classic Greek cookies boast a melt-in-your-mouth crumbly goodness that’s simply irresistible.

With their rich, buttery flavor and delicate texture, they’re the perfect indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth.

14.Ravani (Greek Semolina Cake)

Ravani is a classic Greek cake that stands out among semolina desserts. Light and fluffy, it offers a delightful texture with a subtle grainy finish from the semolina, reminiscent of almond flour.

Infused with the brightness of orange and the warmth of vanilla, this cake is sure to leave you wanting another slice. Perfectly balancing flavor and texture, it’s a treat you won’t forget.

15.Mediterranean Lemon Cake

This cake is a dream come true–it’s super light and fluffy, with a zesty lemon twist that’s totally refreshing. It’s also the perfect base for getting creative in the kitchen.

Want to mix things up? Toss in some blueberries or raspberries into the batter for an extra burst of flavor. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the lemon for oranges or limes.

The possibilities are endless!

16.Greek Orange Honey Cake with Pistachios

Mediterranean desserts often shine with citrus and honey, and this one is a perfect example. The orange brings a vibrant, tangy sweetness, while the honey adds a floral touch that pairs beautifully with the crunch of pistachios.

Together, these flavors create a one-of-a-kind cake that’s as impressive as it is delicious.

17.Namourah (Lebanese Semolina Cake, aka Basbousa)

This semolina cake is a must-try for anyone who loves Lebanese desserts. Made with nutty semolina flour, rich butter, and sweet sugar infused with the fragrance of orange blossom, it’s a treat you’ll crave over and over.

While the classic version is delicious, adding coconut takes it to a whole new level. Either way, this cake is a total winner!

18.Crema Catalana

Discover the delightful crema Catalana, a Spanish dessert that’s like a lighter version of crème brûlée. Using milk instead of heavy cream gives it a delicate touch, while the caramelized sugar on top adds that perfect crunch.

Flavored with cinnamon, orange, and lemon zest, this dessert is a symphony of flavors. Light, creamy, and utterly delicious–every spoonful is a treat!

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19.French Macarons

Meet French Macarons, the delicate treats that are as charming as they are delicious! They might look tricky to make at first, but trust me, they’re worth the effort.

These petite cookies are a blank canvas for flavor–think classic vanilla, tangy lemon, or rich chocolate ganache. The possibilities are endless! With their signature crunchy shell and chewy center, French Macarons are a delight to make and share.

Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing friends, these little gems are worth every bit of love you put into them. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the sweet reward of your hard work!

20.Tarte Tatin

Meet Tarte Tatin, the French dessert that’s as impressive as it is easy to love. This classic treat is essentially an upside-down pie, featuring tender apples and a buttery crust.

The caramelization brings out the apples’ natural sweetness and adds a rich, deep flavor that’s just irresistible. And the best part? It’s not nearly as fancy as it sounds–just simple, delicious, and sure to impress!

21.Italian Lemon Ricotta Cake

Looking for a dessert that’s as tender as it is tasty? Italian Lemon Ricotta Cake is here to steal the show! This cake layers the creaminess of ricotta cheese with the zesty zing of lemon for a flavor combo that’s simply irresistible.

Light, moist, and bursting with flavor, every bite is pure bliss. Trust us, this one’s a keeper!

22.Kremsnita

Kremsnita is a Balkan dessert that stole my heart the first time I tried it. This heavenly pastry is all about layers–think creamy vanilla and custard filling sandwiched between super-flaky puff pastry.

If you’re into UK or Aussie-style custard slices, you’ll totally get why this one is a favorite. It’s that perfect mix of smooth, creamy, and buttery that just hits the spot every time.

23.Crinkle Cake

Looking for a simpler take on baklava? This version is perfect for when you want all the crunchy, nutty, and sweet flavors without the fuss. It’s a quick and easy dessert that still delivers that classic baklava taste.

Plus, you can customize it by adding extra nuts or even some chopped chocolate. Once you try this simplified recipe, it might just become your new go-to!

24.Lemon Ricotta Cookies

This cookie recipe keeps things simple with just a few pantry staples, but don’t let that fool you. The bright, zesty citrus flavor and creamy ricotta make it anything but basic.

It’s like a sour cream cookie, but with a refreshing twist. The added richness from the ricotta keeps these cookies tender and satisfying, making them a delightful treat any time of day.

25.Baklava Cheesecake

Imagine a dessert that brings together the best of both worlds–baklava and cheesecake. The combination might sound unexpected, but trust me, it’s pure magic.

Layers of crispy, honey-soaked phyllo meet the creamy richness of cheesecake, all while blending sweet, spicy, and savory notes. Each bite is like a party in your mouth, with flavors that meld together in perfect harmony.

If you haven’t tried it yet, do yourself a favor and give it a go. It’s a game-changer for dessert lovers!

26.Om Ali (Egyptian Bread Pudding)

Om Ali is a must-try traditional Egyptian dessert that’s as delicious as it is unique. This bread pudding dish is crafted by layering pieces of flaky pastry in a pan, then soaking them in a rich, creamy mixture of milk, cream, and sugar.

The addition of nuts and raisins brings a satisfying crunch and bursts of sweetness to every bite. It’s a golden-brown, indulgent treat that’s sure to impress!

27.Greek Yogurt Cake

Meet your new favorite dessert: a Greek yogurt cake that stole my heart from the very first bite. The tangy zip of Greek yogurt perfectly balances the sweetness of the other ingredients, creating a flavor combination that’s absolute magic.

Lemon adds a bright, citrusy note, but if you’re in the mood for something sweeter, orange zest is a fantastic twist. Give it a try and see why it’s a game-changer for any dessert lover!

27 Best Mediterranean Desserts and Sweets

Recipe by Mohamed ShiliCourse: DessertsCuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

Ready to mix things up for dessert? These Mediterranean treats are about to become your new favorites! From creamy Greek desserts to Italian delights, they’re packed with flavors you’ll love.

Ingredients

  • Greek Lemon Olive Oil Cake

  • Croatian Madjarica

  • Chocolate-Dipped Almond Biscotti

  • Pistachio Tahini Halva

  • Cannoli

  • Kanafeh

  • Coconut Pistachio Cake

  • Traditional Greek Galaktouboureko

  • Tiramisu

  • Imqaret

  • Dark Chocolate Olive Oil Cake

  • Baklava

  • Kourabiedes

  • Ravani (Greek Semolina Cake)

  • Mediterranean Lemon Cake

  • Greek Orange Honey Cake with Pistachios

  • Namourah (Lebanese Semolina Cake, aka Basbousa)

  • Crema Catalana

  • French Macarons

  • Tarte Tatin

  • Italian Lemon Ricotta Cake

  • Kremsnita

  • Crinkle Cake

  • Lemon Ricotta Cookies

  • Baklava Cheesecake

  • Om Ali (Egyptian Bread Pudding)

  • Greek Yogurt Cake

Directions

  • Select your favorite recipe.
  • Organize all the required ingredients.
  • Prep a delicious recipe in 30 minutes or less!

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