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Greek honey donuts glazed with honey and walnuts in a rustic bowl

Greek Honey Donuts (Loukoumades)

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These Greek Honey Donuts—also known as loukoumades—are crispy, golden dough puffs soaked in a spiced honey syrup. A traditional Greek dessert made from simple pantry ingredients, they’re light, airy, and bursting with flavor. Whether served at a festive gathering or as a sweet weekend treat, this recipe brings Mediterranean warmth right into your kitchen. Top with cinnamon, crushed nuts, or enjoy them plain—either way, they’re irresistible.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale

For the Donuts:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for lightness)

  • 1 cup warm water (or milk)

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon sugar

  • Oil for frying (sunflower or canola recommended)

For the Honey Syrup:

  • ½ cup Greek honey

  • ⅓ cup sugar

  • ½ cup water

  • 1 cinnamon stick

  • 2 strips of lemon peel

  • Optional: ½ tsp orange blossom water or rose water

Optional Toppings:

  • Ground cinnamon

  • Crushed walnuts or pistachios

  • Powdered sugar

  • Fresh mint (for garnish)

Instructions

 

  • Prepare the Dough:
    In a large bowl, mix yeast, warm water, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes until bubbly. Add flour, cornstarch, remaining sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours.

  • Make the Syrup:
    While the dough rises, combine sugar, water, cinnamon stick, and lemon peel in a small saucepan. Simmer for 7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in honey and orange blossom water (if using). Set aside to warm.

  • Fry the Donuts:
    Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a small oiled spoon or scoop to drop dough into hot oil. Fry in batches for 3–4 minutes or until golden brown. Flip as needed. Drain on paper towels.

  • Coat in Syrup:
    While still warm, toss the donuts in honey syrup using a slotted spoon or drizzle the syrup generously over them.

  • Serve and Top:
    Sprinkle with cinnamon, nuts, powdered sugar, or garnish with mint. Serve immediately.

Notes

 

  • You can substitute Greek honey with raw local honey or maple syrup for a twist.

  • For a vegan version, use plant milk and agave syrup.

  • Air-fry instead of deep-fry for a lighter option.

  • Author: Lena Marlowe
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Snack, Sweet Treats
  • Method: Deep Frying
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Vegetarian