A traditional sweet from Kythera, delicately aromatic and festive. These baked rosettes combine ground almonds, semolina, honey, citrus zest, and warm spices, finished with a light sprinkle of rose water as they come out of the oven.
Ingredients
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4 cups ground almonds
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1 cup sugar
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1 cup fine semolina
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1/2 cup water
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1/2 cup honey
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
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Orange zest (to taste)
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Lemon zest (to taste)
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Rose water, for finishing
Method
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Dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground almonds, sugar, semolina, cinnamon, and cloves. -
Liquids & aromas
Add the water, honey, orange zest, and lemon zest.
Mix well until you get a thick, pliable dough that holds its shape. -
Shape the rosettes
Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into small rosettes or flower-like spirals. -
Bake
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the rosettes on it.
Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for 20–25 minutes, until lightly golden.
They should stay pale and fragrant, not dark. -
Finish with rose water
As soon as they come out of the oven, lightly sprinkle with rose water while still warm.
Tips
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If the mixture feels too dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of water.
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Use rose water sparingly—just enough for aroma.
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The flavor deepens after a day, making them even better.
