6 Best Desserts in Istanbul

Sweet flavors hold a special place in Turkish culture, and the best desserts in Istanbul are a real treat for the senses!

Local classics like baklava and the chewy, fragrant Turkish delight are famous worldwide. Meanwhile, ingredients such as honey, rose water, and pistachios give these desserts a uniquely Turkish flair. As the largest city in Turkey, Istanbul provides the perfect setting to explore both traditional and modern takes on beloved sweets.

The city offers endless ways to indulge in its rich dessert heritage, and these are some of our favourites..

Beloved Baklava

One of the most famous Turkish desserts, baklava, is said to have originated in the kitchens of the Topkapi Palace. Made with delicate layers of thin phyllo dough, butter, nuts, and syrup, this iconic dessert was once reserved exclusively for the Ottoman elite. Over time, the tradition spread across the empire, inspiring regional varieties throughout the Middle East and Mediterranean.

Where to try: The small shops around the Grand Bazaar are where many locals go – their baklava is authentic and fresh. If you want to try the pistachio variety head to one of Karaköy Güllüoğlu’s shops.

Asure or Noah's Pudding

According to legend, ashure, one of the best desserts in Istanbul, traces its origins to the story of Noah’s Ark. The tale says that when Noah and his followers ran out of food while stranded on Mount Ararat, they combined all the remaining ingredients on board to create a final meal. The result was a unique mixture of grains, beans, and dried fruits. Today, a typical ashure includes wheat, chickpeas, beans, raisins, apricots, figs, nuts, and pomegranate seeds, all sweetened with sugar or honey.

In Turkey, ashure is much more than just a dessert—it symbolizes community and sharing. Its name, meaning “ten” in Arabic (ashara), refers to the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. During this time, Turkish families traditionally prepare ashure and share it with friends, family, and neighbors, fostering a sense of connection and generosity.

Where to try: While “best” is always open to interpretation, according to Taste Atlas you can find some of the best ashure on at Saray Muhallebicisi on Istiklal Street.

Künefe - Melted Cheese Heaven

Kunefe’s origins go back hundreds of years to the Ottoman Empire, when it became popular among both the nobility and the common people. This rich dessert is made from shredded phyllo dough, layered with soft yellow cheese, and soaked in fragrant sugar syrup after baking. Künefe is typically cooked to order and served piping hot, so the cheese remains gooey and stretchy, creating a unique contrast with the crispy pastry.

Where to try: Locals say Hatay restaurants and En Kunefe 4 Levent serve the best kunefe.

San Sebastian Cheesecake

San Sebastian cheesecake, also called ‘burnt cheesecake,’ originated in San Sebastian, Spain’s culinary capital. In recent years, it has become one of the best desserts in Istanbul, thanks in large part to social media. Known for its rich, custardy center and caramelized top, this cheesecake perfectly balances creamy and slightly bitter flavors. Istanbul cafés have embraced the trend wholeheartedly, often adding a Turkish twist with ingredients like tahini or figs to make it their own.

Where to try: Viyana Kahvesi in Kadıköy is where everyone goes for the local chocolate-topped variety.

Fruits Stuffed with Nuts

Turkey is known for producing some of the best quality nuts in the world, particularly pistachios, walnuts, and almonds.

Unsurprisingly, these ingredients play a key role in many of the best desserts in Istanbul. They are often paired with dried fruits to create a simple yet healthy alternative to more traditional sweets.

In Istanbul and throughout Turkey, dried fruits filled with nuts are incredibly popular. Whether enjoyed as snacks, served as desserts, or presented on special occasions, these treats offer a delicious way to savor the country’s rich flavors and culinary traditions.”

Where to try: You will are sure to find good ones in the Egyptian Bazaar, in most local markets and even in some grocery stores.

Turkish Delight

Last but certainly not least, “lokum”, known as Turkish delight is a dessert rooted in Ottoman history and beloved worldwide.

The name lokum for Turkish delight comes from the Arabic phrase rahat-ul-hulqum, which means “comfort for the throat.” This name emphasizes the treat’s soft, soothing texture and sweetness, designed to “comfort” or bring pleasure to the eater.

In Istanbul, you can explore a wide variety of flavors. While classics like rose and pistachio remain timeless, modern twists such as pomegranate and chocolate add an exciting touch to this iconic dessert.

Where to try: Some of the best places to sample turkish delight are the historic confectioners Hafiz Mustafa and Ali Muhiddin Hacı Bekir, known for their high-quality lokum and extensive variety. You can also stop by one of the historic confectioners in the Grand Bazaar or Spice Market for an authentic experience, where you can sample and choose your favorite flavors.

Are you curious about Istanbul?

Explore Istanbul and its Flavours with Us

Istanbul is the final stop on our Bulgaria to Turkey: Lavender, Wine & Oriental Bazaars tour.

Along the way, you’ll wander through Bulgaria’s breathtaking lavender fields, savor its rich wines, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Turkey’s bustling bazaars. Join us for a fragrant journey that blends nature, culture, and history!