Güllaç is a traditional Turkish dessert that dates back to the Ottoman Empire and still retains its special place on the iftar tables during the month of Ramadan. The dessert is made using thin and crispy güllaç sheets, milk, sugar and walnuts between the layers. Pomegranate is used as a garnish. The name Güllaç is derived from gül (rose in English) because rosewater is used in its making.

In the original recipe, as mentioned above, this dessert is made using “güllaç sheets” which has three basic ingredients; corn scratch, wheat flour and water. However, in this recipe we used spring roll rice paper wrappers* made from rice flour, tapioca starch, salt and water as an alternative ingredient. Also vanilla is used as an alternative to rose water. The result was delicious. 

Ingredients:

  • 8 in -12 sheets of rice paper*
  • 6 cups milk
  • 9 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla powder (one 5gr package)
  • crushed walnuts (desired amount)
  • pomegranate arils for garnishing 

Directions:

  • Combine milk, sugar, and vanilla together in a pot and heat it until the sugar melts.
  • In a large circular deep dish, place one sheet of rice paper at a time while slowly pouring the hot milk mixture. After the 6th sheet, spread out crushed walnuts and continue the process of rice paper and milk.
  • Top with more crushed walnuts and pomegranate arils.
  • Once finished, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until completely cold.
  • Serve cold and enjoy!

* Spring roll rice paper wrappers can be found in Asian markets and online stores.

Jana Aiello

April 2022