Pismaniye (Turkish Cotton Candy) Recipe – Turkey Special

Pişmaniye, often referred to as Turkish cotton candy, is a traditional sweet that offers a delightful twist on the classic confection. Unlike the airy, spun sugar of regular cotton candy, Pişmaniye is made by blending flour roasted in butter into pulled sugar, forming fine, crumbly strands. This unique texture melts in your mouth, delivering a subtle sweetness that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Often enjoyed during festive occasions, Pişmaniye brings a touch of Turkish heritage to your dessert table.
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time10 min
- Perform Time2 hr
- Total Time2 hr 25 min
Pismaniye (Turkish Cotton Candy) Ingredients :
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (or other flavorings like rosewater)
- 1 cup cornstarch (for dusting and texture)
- Butter or oil (for greasing)
Equipment:
- Large heavy-bottomed pan
- Candy thermometer
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Silicone mat or parchment paper
- Scissors
How to Make Pismaniye (Turkish Cotton Candy)
Prepare the Work Area:
Lightly grease a silicone mat or parchment paper with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the Sugar Mixture:
In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine the sugar, water, honey, and lemon juice.
Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
Attach a candy thermometer to the pan and bring the mixture to a boil.
Continue boiling until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C), also known as the soft-ball stage.
Add Flavoring:
Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the pan from heat.
Stir in the vanilla extract or other flavorings.
Cool the Mixture:
Pour the hot syrup onto the prepared silicone mat or parchment paper.
Let it cool slightly until it’s just warm enough to handle (about 5-10 minutes).
Stretch and Pull:
Lightly grease your hands or use an oiled spatula.
Begin stretching and folding the candy mixture. This step is crucial as it helps create the fluffy texture. Keep pulling and folding until the candy becomes light and airy.
Form the Pismaniya:
Once the candy is fluffy and manageable, pull it into thin strands or rope-like shapes.
You can also use scissors to cut the candy into smaller pieces or shapes if desired.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the Pismaniya to cool completely before serving.
Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from becoming sticky.
Recipe Notes:
Flavor Variations: While traditional Pişmaniye is flavored with vanilla, you can experiment by adding rosewater or orange blossom water for a floral twist.
Nuts: Incorporating finely ground pistachios or hazelnuts into the strands can add a delightful crunch and enhance the flavor profile.
Storage: Store Pişmaniye in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its delicate texture.
Serving Suggestions: Serve Pişmaniye as a standalone treat or alongside Turkish tea for an authentic experience.