Nevzine Dessert
Origin and History
Nevzine is one of the most famous desserts of Kayseri, dating back to the Ottoman period. It’s traditionally prepared for special occasions like holidays and for welcoming guests. In Kayseri, it is a must-have dessert during weddings and festivals, continuing to preserve its rich cultural significance.
Place in Turkish Cuisine
Nevzine holds a unique place among Turkish desserts as one of the few made with tahini. In Turkish cuisine, it is often served alongside other syrupy desserts like baklava, but its tahini and walnut base make it a beloved specialty in Kayseri. It is traditionally served during festive celebrations like weddings and religious holidays.
Characteristics
Nevzine is made from flour, tahini, walnuts, and molasses. The dough is enriched with walnuts and gains a robust flavor from the tahini. After baking, it is soaked in syrup. The use of molasses instead of sugar gives it a caramelized sweetness that sets it apart from other syrup-based desserts. Lighter and more nutritious than many other traditional Turkish desserts, it has a distinct and memorable flavor.