How to Make Şekerpare with Corn Flour: A Delicate Traditional Turkish Dessert (Video Tutorial)

According to the cooking section of Saed News, Şekerpare is one of the most beloved syrup-based desserts in Turkey and across the Middle East. With its soft texture and sweet, satisfying flavor, it holds a special place in festive gatherings and celebrations. Although it is traditionally made with semolina flour, using cornflour (cornstarch) in this recipe adds a uniquely delicate and crisp texture. In this article, you will learn a step-by-step guide to preparing Cornstarch Şekerpare at home with ease.

For the syrup:

• Sugar: 2½ cups

• Water: 3 cups

• Thin slice of lemon: 1 piece

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Syrup

First, prepare the syrup so it can cool completely before use. Add water and sugar to a saucepan and place over medium heat. Once the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture starts boiling, add the lemon slice. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Then remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Making the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, powdered sugar, one whole egg, one egg white, vegetable oil, cornstarch, desiccated coconut, chopped nuts, and vanilla sugar.

2. Mix well using your hands or a mixer until fully combined and smooth.

3. Add baking powder to one cup of flour, then gradually add it to the mixture.

4. Slowly incorporate the remaining flour while kneading gently until a soft, non-sticky dough forms. Avoid over-kneading, as it may cause the dough to release oil and result in a harder texture after baking.

Step 3: Shaping and Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. Take walnut-sized portions of dough, shape them into oval or round forms, and place them on the tray with space between each.

3. Mix the reserved egg yolk with a teaspoon of milk or oil and brush it over the cookies.

4. Use a fork to gently create decorative lines on the surface.

5. Bake in the middle rack for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops turn golden.

Step 4: Adding the Syrup

Immediately after removing the hot cookies from the oven, pour the cooled syrup evenly over them. Let them rest for 2–3 hours so they can fully absorb the syrup and become soft and moist.

Serving and Tips

Your Cornstarch Şekerpare is now ready. You can garnish it with pistachio powder, coconut, or sliced almonds. Serve it with tea or coffee for a perfect pairing.

Thanks to the syrup absorption, this dessert becomes even more flavorful over time. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days. The use of cornstarch gives this classic Turkish dessert a lighter, more delicate texture that makes it truly irresistible.