Traditional Albanian desserts Tatli with very few ingredients like our grandmother used to make

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option with similar texture.

walnuts

🥗Healthier: almonds

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Almonds are a healthier nut option, while sunflower seeds are budget-friendly.

honey

🥗Healthier: agave syrup

💰Cheaper: corn syrup

Agave syrup is lower on the glycemic index than honey.

sugar

🥗Healthier: stevia

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Stevia is a zero-calorie sweetener, while brown sugar is often less expensive.

Start by making the sugar syrup: combine 2 cups of sugar and 3 cups of water in a pot with 2 slices of lemon.

Whisk the mixture until the sugar dissolves, then bring it to a boil for about 10 minutes.

In a separate bowl, mix 2 room temperature eggs with 2 cups of sugar using a hand whisk until well combined.

Add 1 cup of vegetable oil to the egg and sugar mixture, mixing well.

Add another cup of vegetable oil and mix for a couple of minutes until the mixture is creamy.

Add 1 tablespoon of baking powder to the mixture.

Gradually add 5 cups of flour, mixing first with a whisk and then with your hands as it thickens.

Oil your hands and form the dough into round balls, about the size of a golf ball.

Oil a deep pan and place the balls in it, leaving about half an inch apart to allow for expansion.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake the balls for at least 30 minutes until they are light golden brown.

Once baked, pour 4 cups of cooled sugar syrup gently over the dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens