Irmik Kurabiyesi
🍪Irmik Kurabiyesi Recipe from North Cyprus – Traditional Semolina Cookies
If you have ever visited North Cyprus, you’ll know that sweet treats are at the heart of its rich culinary culture. One such delicacy is Irmik Kurabiyesi, also known as semolina cookies. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are a favourite across Turkish Cypriot households, often served with tea or coffee during family gatherings, festive holidays, and special occasions.
In this guide, we’ll explore the history of Irmik Kurabiyesi in North Cyprus, its cultural significance, and of course, share an authentic recipe so you can make these delicious cookies at home.
________________________________________
❓What is Irmik Kurabiyesi?
Irmik Kurabiyesi translates to “semolina cookies” in Turkish. Unlike regular cookies made only with flour, these treats use fine semolina, which gives them a uniquely soft yet slightly grainy texture. In North Cyprus, these cookies are often made with butter, sugar, flour, and semolina, sometimes flavoured with vanilla or lemon zest.
They are simple to make but carry a comforting, homemade taste that instantly reminds locals of childhood memories and family traditions.
________________________________________
✨The Tradition of Semolina Cookies in North Cyprus
North Cypriot cuisine blends Turkish, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern influences. Desserts often feature semolina, nuts, and syrups, and Irmik Kurabiyesi is a perfect example of this cultural blend.
These cookies are:
• Served during Bayram (Eid celebrations) as a welcoming sweet.
• Commonly offered with Turkish tea or coffee when guests arrive.
• A favourite for holiday tables, weddings, and special events.
They represent hospitality and warmth, two values deeply rooted in Cypriot culture.
________________________________________
🥗Ingredients for Irmik Kurabiyesi
To make about 20–24 cookies, you will need:
• 125g unsalted butter (softened)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup fine semolina (irmik)
• 1 ½ cups plain flour (all-purpose)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (or lemon zest for variation)
• A pinch of salt
• Optional: whole almonds or hazelnuts for decoration
________________________________________
👨🍳Step-by-Step Irmik Kurabiyesi Recipe
🥣 Prepare the dough
• In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
• Add the egg and vanilla (or lemon zest), mixing well.
🥄 Add dry ingredients
• Stir in the semolina, flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
• Mix until a soft, pliable dough forms. It should not be sticky.
🟡 Shape the cookies
• Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
• Roll small portions of dough into balls (about walnut size).
• Place them on a lined baking tray and flatten slightly with your fingers.
• If desired, press an almond or hazelnut into the centre of each cookie.
🔳 Bake
• Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until lightly golden on the bottom.
• Do not overbake – they should remain pale and soft.
🍽️ Cool and serve
• Allow cookies to cool completely before serving with tea or coffee.
________________________________________
📝Tips for Perfect Irmik Kurabiyesi
• Use fine semolina for the best texture.
• Don’t overbake – these cookies should stay soft and crumbly.
• Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
• For extra flavour, dust with powdered sugar once cooled.
________________________________________
😋Why Try Irmik Kurabiyesi from North Cyprus?
If you’re exploring Cypriot recipes, Irmik Kurabiyesi is a must-try. It’s:
• Easy to make with simple ingredients.
• A traditional recipe passed down through generations.
• Perfect for anyone who loves light, buttery cookies with a Mediterranean twist.
Whether you’re looking to expand your baking skills or reconnect with North Cyprus traditions, these cookies will become a family favourite in no time.
________________________________________
🌸 Final Thoughts
Irmik Kurabiyesi is more than just a cookie – it’s a symbol of North Cypriot hospitality and heritage. Soft, delicate, and full of flavour, these semolina cookies bring a taste of the Mediterranean straight to your home.
Why not bake a batch today and enjoy them with a warm cup of tea?