Popular Persian Desserts

Saffran Rice Pudding

Sholeh Zard is a popular and delicious Iranian dessert that is usually prepared for iftar and on various occasions as a votive offering. The origin of this dessert dates back to the city of Kerman, and in 2023, it ranked first among the best puddings on the TasteAtlas website. The ingredients of Sholeh Zard include rice, sugar, saffron, rosewater, cardamom, pistachios or almonds, cinnamon, and oil or butter. This dessert is usually cooked and distributed during religious days, and it is decorated with religious phrases inscribed on it with cinnamon.

Ranginak Dessert

Ranginak is a delightful and wholesome dessert, widely enjoyed in the southern regions of Iran. This traditional treat is made with simple yet flavorful ingredients, including wheat flour, oil or butter, dates, cinnamon powder, and cardamom. The preparation begins by pitting the dates and filling them with walnut halves. The stuffed dates are then carefully arranged in a tray in an even layer. Next, the flour is gently toasted in oil or butter over low heat until it turns golden and releases a rich aroma. This warm mixture is poured over the dates, ensuring they are fully coated. To finish, Ranginak is beautifully garnished with cinnamon powder, cardamom, and optionally with ground pistachios or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor. Once prepared, the dessert is refrigerated for a few hours to set properly before being sliced into bite-sized pieces and served. Ranginak’s combination of soft dates, crunchy walnuts, and aromatic spices makes it a beloved choice for those seeking a sweet yet nourishing indulgence.

Masghati Halva

Halva Masghati is a delightful traditional dessert from Shiraz, often enjoyed as a post-meal treat or alongside tea. This soft and flavorful sweet is made using simple ingredients such as starch, sugar, almond slivers, rose water, and saffron. It is available in various flavors, including saffron, pistachio, rose, and barberry. Typically, the dessert is garnished with nuts like pistachios or almonds, while some versions are enhanced with wild rue for added flavor. The origins of Halva Masghati trace back to Muscat, the capital of Oman. Iranian merchants from Lar County in Fars Province learned its preparation during their trade journeys to Muscat. Over time, they adapted the recipe, making it a cherished part of Iranian culinary tradition. Today, Masghati from Lar stands out for its generous use of almond slivers and remains one of the most popular souvenirs from the region.

Kachi Pudding

Iranian Cake Yazdi

Cake Yazdi is a delightful traditional Iranian sweet that originates from the historic city of Yazd. This cake, resembling cupcakes or muffins, is crafted with simple yet essential ingredients such as white flour, yogurt, and baking powder. It boasts a soft texture, a rich flavor, and a mild sweetness, enhanced by the exquisite aroma of rosewater. Typically baked in the oven, Cake Yazdi is often garnished with sesame seeds or pistachios for added appeal. The preparation of Cake Yazdi is deeply rooted in Yazd's customs and traditions. It is a staple at numerous religious ceremonies, mourning gatherings, weddings, and Nowruz celebrations, where it is served alongside Persian tea. Light and not overly sweet, this treat derives its distinctive Persian flavor from cardamom and rosewater. Cake Yazdi pairs best with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.

Zolbia

Yogurt Stew

Fooman Cookie

Persian Doughnut

Latifeh Sweet

Latifeh is a delicate and creamy dessert originally from Tabriz, celebrated for its crispy exterior and soft, airy interior. This exquisite pastry consists of two light cookies sandwiching a layer of whipped cream, often infused with vanilla or rosewater for added fragrance. The cream-filled center is typically garnished with powdered pistachios, adding both flavor and visual appeal. For a creative twist, half of the pastry can be dipped in melted chocolate and sprinkled with pistachio powder.
Crafting Tabrizi Latifeh requires precision and speed, as the recipe demands careful handling to achieve its signature texture. The main ingredients include white flour, cornstarch, eggs, cream, and sugar. Known for its melt-in-your-mouth quality, Latifeh pairs beautifully with tea and is a popular choice for festive gatherings or special occasions. Its combination of lightness, subtle sweetness, and elegant presentation makes it a cherished treat in Persian confectionery.

Halva Ardeh

Halva Ardeh is a highly nutritious dish typically enjoyed at breakfast. Its primary ingredients include sesame, tahini, liquid glucose, approved sweeteners, citric acid, egg white powder, and wood water. The most renowned Halva Ardeh in Iran is produced in Ardakan County, Yazd Province. This product is favored for being free of chemical additives and made using traditional, manual methods, which impart a natural taste and flavor that resonates more with consumers compared to industrially produced Halva Ardeh.

Gooshfil Sweet

Rice Pudding

Pumpkin Dessert

Carrot Halva

Tarhalva Dessert

3Ard Halva

Nesar Halva

Fereni Pudding

Mulberry Sweet

Iranian Date Cookie