Giuggiulena – Sicilian Sesame Seed Candy
Category: Sweets
Yield: 24 pieces
Giuggiulena is a traditional Sicilian treat made from golden honey, crunchy sesame seeds, and a hint of sweetness. This delightful candy is perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet snack. With a firm but chewy texture, it has a satisfying nutty flavor balanced by the rich honey syrup. Here’s how you can make this classic confection at home.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Sesame seeds | 250g |
| Wildflower honey | 200g |
| Sugar | 50g |
| Almonds | 24 pieces |
Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. | Prepare everything you need before you begin cooking, as this candy must be handled quickly once it’s ready. Start by greasing a marble countertop or, alternatively, laying a piece of parchment paper on a heat-resistant surface. Also, fill a container with cold water and keep a metal spatula or smooth knife nearby. |
| 2. | In a steel or copper saucepan, combine the honey and sugar. Heat over medium flame, stirring occasionally until the mixture becomes fluid and begins to boil. |
| 3. | As soon as the mixture is golden and has thickened into a compact texture, turn off the heat and immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared surface. Be careful not to burn yourself! Use the spatula or knife (dipped in cold water to prevent sticking) to spread the mixture into a 1cm thick, rectangular sheet. Smooth the edges for a neat finish. |
| 4. | Imagine dividing the sheet into 24 squares, each measuring 3x3cm. Place one almond at the center of each square. While the mixture is still hot enough to be cut, begin scoring the candy by gently pressing down with a wet knife, creating vertical lines to divide the sheet into squares. If the candy begins to lose its shape at the edges, simply trim them to keep the sheet neat. |
| 5. | Once all the squares are cut, transfer them to a greased sheet of parchment paper to cool and set. The next day, your giuggiulena will be ready to enjoy or package in food-safe bags as a sweet gift. |
Enjoy your homemade Giuggiulena, a perfect blend of sweetness and crunch, bringing a taste of Sicily to your home!
