Oh, the sweet, nutty allure of sesame halva! Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to this delectable treat, our roundup of 18 Delicious Sesame Halva Recipes is sure to inspire your next kitchen adventure. From classic versions to innovative twists, each recipe promises a taste of comfort and joy. Dive in and discover your new favorite way to enjoy this timeless delight!
Classic Sesame Halva

Easy to make and impossible to resist, this Classic Sesame Halva brings a sweet, nutty flavor to your table with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 cup tahini (stir well before using)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- A splash of vanilla extract
- A couple of tablespoons of water
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Line a small loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and salt over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- Stop stirring once the sugar dissolves. Cook until the syrup reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer, about 5-7 minutes.
- Tip: Swirl the pan gently if needed to ensure even cooking, but avoid stirring to prevent crystallization.
- Remove from heat. Quickly stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually pour the hot syrup into the tahini, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
- Tip: Work quickly but carefully to incorporate the syrup fully before it cools too much.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Let it cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours, then refrigerate for another hour to set completely.
- Tip: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between slices.
- Once set, lift the halva out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares or bars.
The halva should be crumbly yet moist, with a rich sesame flavor that’s not overly sweet. Try serving it alongside strong coffee or as part of a dessert platter with fresh fruit.
Honey Glazed Sesame Halva

Honey glazed sesame halva is a sweet, nutty treat that’s surprisingly simple to make. Here’s how to whip it up at home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup of honey
- A splash of vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the sesame seeds on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Toast the sesame seeds for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and fragrant. Tip: Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the honey until it becomes thin and runny, about 2 minutes. Tip: Stir constantly to avoid scorching.
- Remove the honey from heat and quickly stir in the toasted sesame seeds, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Tip: Work fast as the mixture thickens quickly.
- Press the mixture into a parchment-lined loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
- Cut into squares or bars and serve. For an extra touch, drizzle with more honey before serving.
Firm yet crumbly, this halva melts in your mouth with a rich sesame flavor. Try pairing it with a strong coffee or as a topping for vanilla ice cream.
Chocolate Drizzled Sesame Halva

Just when you thought halva couldn’t get any better, here comes a chocolate-drizzled version that’s downright addictive.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of tahini
- A couple of cups of powdered sugar
- A splash of vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips
- A drizzle of coconut oil
Instructions
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, mix tahini, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Tip: If the mixture feels too thick, warm the tahini slightly for easier mixing.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the top.
- Freeze for about 30 minutes until firm. Tip: This makes slicing cleaner and easier.
- Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the halva. Tip: For a professional look, use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off.
- Return to the freezer for 10 minutes to set the chocolate.
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the halva out of the pan. Slice into squares or bars.
Absolutely rich and nutty with a satisfying crunch from the sesame, this halva is a dream. Try serving it alongside strong coffee for a match made in heaven.
Pistachio Crusted Sesame Halva

Kickstart your day with this Pistachio Crusted Sesame Halva, a delightful twist on the classic Middle Eastern sweet. Perfect for those who love a crunchy texture with their desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of sesame tahini
- 1/2 cup of honey
- A couple of pinches of sea salt
- 1/2 cup of shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
- A splash of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line a small baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix the tahini, honey, and a couple of pinches of sea salt until smooth. Tip: If the mixture is too thick, warm it slightly to make blending easier.
- Stir in a splash of vanilla extract for flavor depth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the roughly chopped pistachios evenly over the top, pressing them lightly into the mixture. Tip: Toast the pistachios beforehand for an extra crunch.
- Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Tip: For cleaner cuts, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the halva out of the dish, then cut into squares or bars.
Gorgeously nutty and just the right amount of sweet, this halva pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee. Try drizzling with melted chocolate for an indulgent twist.
Orange Blossom Sesame Halva

Easy to whip up, this Orange Blossom Sesame Halva brings a fragrant twist to the classic Middle Eastern sweet. Perfect for those who love a nutty, floral dessert without too much fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 cup tahini
- 1 cup sugar
- A splash of orange blossom water
- A couple of tablespoons of sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Line a small loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and a quarter cup of water. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes.
- Bring the syrup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer, about 10 minutes. Tip: Don’t stir the syrup to avoid crystallization.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the tahini and orange blossom water until fully combined. The mixture will thicken quickly.
- Pour into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Tip: Wet the spatula lightly to prevent sticking.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top, pressing gently to adhere. Let cool completely at room temperature, about 2 hours.
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the halva out of the pan. Cut into squares or bars. Tip: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water.
Buttery and crumbly, this halva melts with a hint of citrusy aroma. Serve alongside strong coffee or as a fancy topping for your morning yogurt.
Vanilla Infused Sesame Halva

Perfect for those who love a sweet treat with a twist, this Vanilla Infused Sesame Halva combines nutty sesame with the warm, floral notes of vanilla. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of sesame seeds
- 1 cup of sugar
- A splash of vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup of water
Instructions
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly until golden. Tip: Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Combine sugar, water, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and cook until the syrup reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer. Tip: This is the soft-ball stage, crucial for the right texture.
- Remove the syrup from heat and stir in the vanilla extract quickly. Tip: Adding vanilla off the heat preserves its flavor.
- Immediately pour the hot syrup over the toasted sesame seeds, mixing vigorously until well combined and the mixture starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl.
- Press the mixture into a lined loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Let it cool completely before slicing.
Great for a mid-afternoon snack or as a dessert, this halva has a crumbly yet melt-in-your-mouth texture. Serve it with a drizzle of honey or alongside a cup of strong coffee for an extra flavor boost.
Coconut Coated Sesame Halva

Never tried making halva at home? This coconut-coated sesame halva is surprisingly simple and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup of honey
- A splash of vanilla extract
- A couple of tablespoons of coconut oil
- 1/4 cup of shredded coconut for coating
Instructions
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 5 minutes, until golden. Stir constantly to avoid burning.
- In a small saucepan, warm the honey and vanilla extract over low heat for 2 minutes, just until it becomes more fluid.
- Mix the toasted sesame seeds with the honey mixture in a bowl. Add the coconut oil and stir until everything is well combined.
- Press the mixture into a lined loaf pan. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the top.
- Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the top, pressing lightly so it sticks.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, until firm.
- Cut into squares or bars before serving.
With a crunchy exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth center, this halva is a textural dream. Try serving it with a drizzle of dark chocolate for an extra decadent touch.
Rose Water Flavored Sesame Halva

Vintage flavors get a modern twist with this rose water sesame halva. It’s a sweet, fragrant treat that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of tahini
- 1 cup of sugar
- A splash of rose water
- A couple of tablespoons of sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the tahini in a pan over low heat for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add the sugar to the tahini, mixing until fully incorporated. Keep the heat low to avoid crystallization.
- Stir in a splash of rose water, adjusting the amount based on how floral you want the halva to be.
- Pour the mixture into a lined loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for a crunchy texture.
- Let the halva cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Knead the halva gently if you prefer a softer texture. The rose water adds a delicate aroma that pairs beautifully with the nutty tahini. Serve it with a drizzle of honey or alongside a cup of strong coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Almond Studded Sesame Halva

Overwhelmed by store-bought sweets? This homemade Almond Studded Sesame Halva is a game-changer. Simple ingredients, big flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup tahini
- 1 cup honey
- A couple of handfuls of almonds, roughly chopped
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan, heat the tahini and honey over low heat, stirring constantly until just combined. Tip: Don’t let it boil to keep the texture smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped almonds and a pinch of salt. Tip: Toast the almonds beforehand for extra crunch.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set. Tip: For cleaner slices, chill overnight.
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the halva out of the pan. Cut into squares or bars.
Kick back and enjoy the crumbly yet creamy texture, with a perfect balance of sweet and nutty. Serve alongside strong coffee or as a fancy dessert topping.
Cardamom Spiced Sesame Halva

Kickstart your day with a twist on the classic halva. This cardamom-spiced version brings a warm, aromatic depth to the sweet, nutty sesame treat. Perfect for those who love a little spice with their sweetness.
Ingredients
– 1 cup tahini
– 1 cup sugar
– A splash of vanilla extract
– 1 tsp ground cardamom
– A couple of tbsp water
– A pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Line a small loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, then stop stirring to let it come to a boil.
3. Cook the sugar syrup until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer, about 5-7 minutes. This is the soft-ball stage, crucial for the right texture.
4. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, mix tahini, vanilla extract, ground cardamom, and salt until smooth.
5. Once the syrup hits 240°F, quickly pour it into the tahini mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Let it cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing. For cleaner cuts, chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
9. Tip: Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It lasts up to 2 weeks at room temperature.
10. Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before it sets.
11. Tip: If the mixture seizes, gently warm it over a double boiler while stirring.
Flaky yet dense, this halva melts in your mouth with a burst of cardamom. Serve it with a cup of strong coffee to balance the sweetness, or crumble it over yogurt for breakfast.
Lemon Zest Sesame Halva

TThis Lemon Zest Sesame Halva is a bright, nutty treat that’s surprisingly simple to whip up. Perfect for those who love a dessert that’s not too sweet but packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of tahini
- a splash of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of honey
- the zest of 2 lemons
- a couple of tablespoons of sesame seeds for topping
Instructions
- Line a small loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix the tahini and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Warm the honey in a small saucepan over low heat until it’s thin and runny, about 2 minutes.
- Pour the warmed honey into the tahini mixture, stirring constantly to combine.
- Fold in the lemon zest, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the top with sesame seeds, pressing them lightly into the surface.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift the halva out of the pan.
- Cut into squares or slices to serve.
Now you’ve got a dessert that’s creamy yet crumbly, with a perfect balance of citrus and sesame. Try serving it with a drizzle of extra honey or alongside a cup of strong coffee for an extra treat.
Maple Syrup Sweetened Sesame Halva

Ready to whip up something sweet? This Maple Syrup Sweetened Sesame Halva is a no-fuss treat that’ll satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 1 cup tahini
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- A pinch of salt
- A splash of vanilla extract
- A couple of tablespoons of sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Line a small loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix the tahini and maple syrup until smooth. Tip: If the mixture is too thick, warm the tahini slightly to make it easier to blend.
- Add a pinch of salt and a splash of vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring well to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the top, gently pressing them in so they stick.
- Freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Tip: For easier slicing, let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before cutting.
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the halva out of the pan. Cut into squares or bars. Tip: For clean cuts, wipe your knife with a warm, damp cloth between slices.
Buttery and rich, this halva has a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a deep sesame flavor. Serve it alongside a strong coffee or crumble it over vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent dessert.
Cinnamon Dusted Sesame Halva

Bold flavors come together in this simple yet indulgent treat. Cinnamon Dusted Sesame Halva is a no-bake delight that’s surprisingly easy to whip up.
Ingredients
- 1 cup tahini
- 1 cup honey
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A couple of tbsp cinnamon for dusting
Instructions
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix tahini and honey until smooth. Tip: If the mixture is too thick, warm the honey slightly for easier mixing.
- Add a pinch of salt and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Sprinkle cinnamon evenly over the top. Tip: Use a sieve for an even dusting.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Tip: For quicker setting, place in the freezer for 1 hour.
- Once set, lift the halva out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares or slices.
The halva should be firm yet crumbly, with a rich sesame flavor balanced by the sweet honey and warm cinnamon. Serve with a drizzle of extra honey or alongside a strong coffee for contrast.
Walnut Mixed Sesame Halva

Honey, if you’re craving something sweet with a nutty crunch, this Walnut Mixed Sesame Halva hits the spot. It’s a no-bake treat that’s rich, crumbly, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
– 1 cup of sesame tahini
– 1/2 cup of honey
– A couple of handfuls of walnuts, roughly chopped
– A splash of vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, mix the tahini and honey until smooth. Tip: If the mixture is too thick, warm it slightly for easier mixing.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. This enhances the flavors, making the halva more aromatic.
3. Fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. Tip: Toast the walnuts beforehand for an extra layer of flavor.
4. Press the mixture into a lined loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Tip: Wet the spatula slightly to prevent sticking.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
6. Once set, cut into squares or slices. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Delight in the contrast of the creamy halva with the crunchy walnuts. Perfect with a cup of strong coffee or as a dessert topping.
Date Filled Sesame Halva

Venture into the world of Middle Eastern sweets with this simple yet indulgent Date Filled Sesame Halva. Perfect for those who love a chewy texture paired with nutty flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup tahini
- 1/2 cup honey
- A pinch of salt
- 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
- A splash of vanilla extract
- A couple of tablespoons sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix tahini, honey, and salt until smooth. Tip: If the mixture is too thick, warm it slightly for easier mixing.
- Spread half of the tahini mixture into the prepared pan, pressing down firmly.
- In a small bowl, mix chopped dates with vanilla extract. Spread this evenly over the tahini layer.
- Top with the remaining tahini mixture, smoothing the surface. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top, pressing gently to adhere.
- Freeze for at least 2 hours until firm. Tip: For cleaner slices, use a hot knife.
- Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Kick back and enjoy the contrast of creamy tahini and sweet, sticky dates. For an extra touch, drizzle with melted chocolate or serve alongside strong coffee.
Espresso Infused Sesame Halva

Very few desserts strike the perfect balance between nutty and caffeinated like this one. Espresso Infused Sesame Halva is a game-changer for your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of tahini
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- A splash of vanilla extract
- A couple of shots of espresso, cooled
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and a splash of water. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes. Tip: Swirl the pan instead of stirring to prevent crystallization.
- Once the sugar syrup reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer, remove from heat. Tip: This is the soft-ball stage, crucial for the right texture.
- Quickly stir in tahini, vanilla, and salt until smooth. The mixture will thicken fast.
- Pour in the cooled espresso, mixing vigorously to incorporate fully. Tip: Work fast to prevent the halva from setting before it’s evenly flavored.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Let it set at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Crumbly yet creamy, this halva packs a punch with its deep sesame and espresso flavors. Try serving it alongside a shot of espresso for double the kick.
Turmeric Colored Sesame Halva

Fancy a sweet treat with a healthful twist? Turmeric colored sesame halva is your go-to. It’s nutty, earthy, and just the right amount of sweet.
Ingredients
– 1 cup sesame tahini
– 1/2 cup honey
– A pinch of turmeric powder
– A splash of vanilla extract
– A couple of tablespoons of sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
1. In a medium bowl, mix 1 cup sesame tahini and 1/2 cup honey until smooth.
2. Add a pinch of turmeric powder and a splash of vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Line a small loaf pan with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
4. Sprinkle a couple of tablespoons of sesame seeds over the top for garnish.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
6. Once set, remove from the pan and slice into squares.
Tip: For a stronger turmeric flavor, add an extra pinch. Tip: If the mixture is too thick, warm the honey slightly before mixing. Tip: Toast the sesame seeds for garnish for an extra nutty flavor.
Now you’ve got a batch of turmeric colored sesame halva. It’s firm yet crumbly, with a deep sesame flavor brightened by turmeric. Serve it with a drizzle of honey or alongside a cup of strong coffee for contrast.
Ginger Flavored Sesame Halva

Delightfully aromatic and subtly spicy, this ginger-flavored sesame halva is a quick treat that packs a punch. Perfect for those who love a hint of warmth in their sweets.
Ingredients
- 1 cup tahini
- 3/4 cup honey
- A couple of tablespoons of freshly grated ginger
- A splash of vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Line a small loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix tahini and honey until smooth. Tip: If the mixture is too thick, warm it slightly for easier blending.
- Stir in the grated ginger, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Freeze for about 2 hours, or until firm enough to slice. Tip: For cleaner cuts, dip your knife in hot water before slicing.
- Once set, lift the halva out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares. Tip: Store in the fridge to keep the texture firm but sliceable.
Makes for a chewy yet crumbly texture with a bold ginger kick. Try serving it alongside a cup of strong coffee to balance the sweetness.
Conclusion
Exploring these 18 Delicious Sesame Halva Recipes is a journey through flavor and tradition that’s sure to delight any home cook. Whether you’re a halva enthusiast or new to this sweet treat, there’s a recipe here for you. We’d love to hear which one becomes your favorite—drop us a comment below! And don’t forget to share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest for others to enjoy.