Discover the magic of a traditional Turkish ice cream recipe that brings the authentic flavors of Turkey to your kitchen. Known for its unique, stretchy texture, this dessert is a true delight for anyone with a sweet tooth. Made with simple yet essential ingredients like goat’s milk, sugar, and salep powder, it’s a treat that stands out from the rest.
This recipe, often referred to as Maraş Dondurması, has been cherished for generations. The use of salep, a powder derived from orchid roots, gives it a creamy and chewy consistency. A touch of mastic can be added for a subtle, aromatic flavor that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional desserts or looking to try something new, this recipe is a must. It’s not just about the taste—it’s about the experience. From the careful blending to the manual stirring, every step celebrates the craftsmanship of Turkish dessert-making traditions.
Key Takeaways
- Maraş Dondurması is a beloved Turkish dessert known for its stretchy texture.
- Key ingredients include goat’s milk, sugar, and salep powder.
- Optional mastic adds a unique, aromatic flavor.
- This recipe highlights the artistry of traditional Turkish dessert-making.
- Perfect for those who enjoy creamy, chewy, and flavorful treats.
Homemade Turkish Ice Cream
4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal1
hour10
minutesTraditional Turkish ice cream with a chewy texture using everyday ingredients.
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Ingredients
2 cups 2 whole milk
1 cup 1 heavy cream
0.75 cup 0.75 granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon 1/2 salep powder
1 teaspoon 1 vanilla extract
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved, approximately 5 minutes.
- Once the mixture starts to steam, add the salep powder and whisk continuously to prevent lumps, ensuring a smooth consistency forms.
- Continue to cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly, then remove from heat.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, then pour the mixture into a metal or glass bowl and let it cool to room temperature.
- Cover the mixture with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to avoid skin formation, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results.
- Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically about 20–25 minutes.
- Transfer the churned ice cream to an airtight container, smoothing the surface. Freeze for at least 2 hours or until firm before serving.
Recipe Video
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1g
- Total number of serves: 4
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 35mg
- Potassium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 3g
- Vitamin A: 10IU
- Vitamin C: 0mg
- Calcium: 8mg
- Iron: 0mg
- Vitamin D: 2mg
- Vitamin E: 1mg
- Vitamin K: 0mg
- Thiamin: 0mg
- Riboflavin: 10mg
- Niacin: 0mg
- Vitamin B6: 0mg
- Vitamin B12: 6mg
- Folate: 2mg
- Biotin: 0mg
- Pantothenic Acid: 0mg
- Phosphorus: 10mg
- Iodine: 0mg
- Magnesium: 2mg
- Zinc: 2mg
- Selenium: 0mg
- Copper: 0mg
- Manganese: 0mg
- Chromium: 0mg
- Molybdenum: 0mg
- Chloride: 0mg
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Turkish ice cream recipe Authentic Ingredients and Unique Techniques
Unlock the secrets behind the iconic stretchy texture of Turkish ice cream. This dessert’s magic lies in its authentic ingredients and time-honored techniques. Each component plays a vital role in creating its unique flavor and chewy consistency.
Key Ingredients: Milk, Salep, and Mastic
At the heart of this dessert is goat milk, which provides a rich, authentic flavor. While cow’s milk can be used, goat milk remains the traditional choice. Another essential ingredient is salep, a powder made from orchid roots. Pure salep is crucial for achieving the signature stretchiness.
For an added layer of flavor, a small amount of mastic is often included. This resin, when ground into a fine powder, offers a subtle, aromatic touch that balances the sweetness perfectly.
The Role of Traditional Methods in Texture
Traditional techniques are just as important as the ingredients. The mixture is simmered over low heat and stirred constantly to prevent lumps. This process ensures a smooth, creamy base. After cooking, the mixture is chilled and then frozen, with periodic blending to enhance its texture.
Hand-churning or using a blender helps achieve the desired consistency. These methods highlight the craftsmanship behind this beloved dessert. For more homemade ice cream recipes, explore our collection and bring these traditions to your kitchen.
These ingredients and methods are deeply rooted in Turkey’s culinary heritage. By using them, you can recreate a dessert that’s not just a treat but a cultural experience.
Step-by-Step Turkish ice cream recipe

Master the art of creating a creamy, stretchy dessert with this detailed recipe. Using simple ingredients like goat milk, salep, and sugar, you can recreate a treat that’s both rich and chewy. Follow these steps to bring the authentic flavors of Turkey into your kitchen.
Preparing the Creamy Ice Cream Base
Start by combining 2 cups of goat milk, ¾ cup of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of salep in a saucepan. For an aromatic twist, add ½ teaspoon of ground mastic. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the texture thickens. This process takes about 10-15 minutes.
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Use a hand blender to whisk the mixture until it cools to room temperature. This step ensures a smooth, creamy base that’s essential for the final texture.
Freezing, Stirring, and Achieving the Stretchy Consistency
Pour the mixture into a wide, shallow container and place it in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, remove the container and stir vigorously to break down ice crystals. This repeated stirring incorporates air, giving the dessert its signature stretchy texture.
For the best results, use a blender in the early freezing stages. This helps maintain the consistency, especially if the container is deep. Patience is key—allow the mixture to freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight for the perfect texture.
For more homemade ice cream recipes, explore our collection and bring these traditions to your kitchen. These traditional techniques transform simple ingredients into an extraordinary dessert that’s as fun to prepare as it is to eat.
Turkish ice cream recipe Tips and Tricks for Perfect Texture and Flavor

Perfecting the texture and flavor of this stretchy dessert requires a few expert tips and tricks. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned dessert maker, these insights will help you achieve the best results. From adjusting sweetness to experimenting with tools, every detail matters.
Adjusting Sugar and Experimenting with Flavors
The amount of sugar can make or break the dessert. Too much can overpower the subtle flavors of salep and mastic. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to your taste. For a unique twist, try adding vanilla or crushed pistachios. These additions enhance the flavor without compromising the traditional profile.
Alternative Tools and Techniques
Hand churning is the traditional method, but using an ice cream maker can save time. Hand churning gives you more control over the texture, while a machine ensures consistency. Whichever method you choose, remember to stir the mixture every 30 minutes during freezing. This step is crucial for achieving the signature stretchiness.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas
Presentation is key to making this dessert stand out. Slice it with a sharp knife for a clean, elegant look. Garnish with crushed pistachios or a drizzle of honey for added flair. Pair it with desserts like baklava for a truly authentic experience. These small touches elevate the dish and make it unforgettable.
By following these tips, you can create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Experiment with flavors and techniques to make it your own. The journey of perfecting this treat is as rewarding as the final result.
Conclusion
Creating this stretchy Turkish ice cream recipe is a journey that blends tradition with culinary artistry. By using authentic ingredients like salep and milk, you can achieve a texture and flavor that’s truly unique. The process, though time-consuming, is a testament to the care and dedication behind each step.
This homemade treat not only delights the taste buds but also connects you to a rich cultural heritage. Its chewy consistency and subtle sweetness make it a standout dessert. Whether you’re new to traditional methods or a seasoned cook, this recipe offers a rewarding experience.
Feel inspired to experiment in your kitchen and share your creations. For more dessert ideas, explore our guide on homemade turtle ice cream. Celebrate the joy of crafting something special and embrace the flavors of tradition.