Whoever said dessert couldn't be enjoyed by the glass? This cocktail by bartender Scott Murdoch proves that treats can be just as tasty when in cocktail form, creating this drinkable Turkish delight tipple as an ode to the famous sweet.

What you need to know before you start

You will need some cocktail-making accessories, including a cocktail shaker, a strainer, a large jug and your favourite Champagne coupe glasses. This recipe makes one cocktail, so keep this in mind if you plan on making multiple drinks for guests, and adjust the recipe accordingly. This recipe also calls for one egg white. Save the yolk for making homemade pasta or custard. 

Why is this the best Turkish delight cocktail recipe?

Inspired by the Turkish delight confectionery, this cocktail combines all the sweet’s familiar flavours, such as rosewater and vanilla syrup, into a pink-hued alcoholic drink. Complete with a luscious egg white foam and topped with fairy floss, it’s a fun and celebratory drink, perfect to serve at cocktail hour on a Friday night. As this recipe does contain alcohol, this one is just for the adults. 

What is traditional Turkish delight made of?

Also referred to as lokum, Turkish delight is a chewy sweet treat made from a gel of starch and sugar. It has a jelly-like consistency and is commonly flavoured with rosewater. It’s traditionally served in small cubes, dusted with icing sugar and paired with coffee or tea. 

What ingredients you’ll need

Pink gin: Pink gin brings a floral and slightly fruity flavour, adding a refreshing base and a pink colour reminiscent of Turkish delight.

White creme de cacao: This liqueur adds a creamy, subtle chocolate sweetness that enhances the smooth texture and balances the floral notes of the rosewater.

Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice provides a tangy, citrussy kick that brightens the drink.

Rosewater: Rosewater infuses the cocktail with a delicate, aromatic floral flavour that mimics the signature taste of Turkish delight.

Vanilla syrup: This adds a smooth, sweet warmth to the cocktail. 

Egg white: Only the egg whites are used to create a frothy, velvety texture to the drink.

Ice cubes: Ice chills the cocktail.

Rose fairy floss: Fairy floss acts as an edible garnish, adding a sweet, whimsical touch to the complete drink. 

How to make a Turkish delight cocktail

Making this cocktail at home is an easy process, so it’s a great option for budding bartenders of all skill levels. Begin by measuring out the ingredients and separating the egg white from the yolk. Place all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker, add ice, secure the lid and hold the shaker in both hands, shaking vigorously in a horizontal motion for 30 seconds. If the lid of your cocktail shaker gets stuck and you can’t remove it, try tapping the base of the shaker firmly with the heel of your hand, or against a soft surface. You can also try placing your shaker in the freezer for about 15 minutes. The cold can help the metal to contract, breaking the seal.

Strain the liquid into a large jug and discard the ice, then return the gin mixture back into the shaker and repeat the process for another 30 seconds without the ice. Once you’re finished, strain directly into a glass and decorate with fairy floss. 

How to serve a Turkish delight cocktail

Turkish delight cocktail is best served topped with rose-flavoured fairy floss. You can even take it one step further and present it with a skewered Turkish delight (think how olives are served with a martini) or with a salted pistachio rim. Pair with some nibbles like nuts, dried fruits or cheese for the perfect evening at home. 

If you love our Turkish delight cocktail recipe, try this 

Get your friends together and host cocktail night at your place with these deliciously boozy drinks to really get the party started:

• Frozen margarita 
• Aper-solo spritz
• Pandan mojito