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    Home » Christmas » Homemade Italian Sesame Candy Recipe

    Homemade Italian Sesame Candy Recipe

    October 26, 2023 , Updated November 20, 2023 Maria 17 Comments

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    Pieces of sesame seed nougat on a wooden board.

    Create this delicious homemade Sesame Candy with just three simple ingredients: sesame seeds, honey, and sugar. You won’t believe how easy it is to make this Italian confection! 

    I recently tested this nougat recipe with sunflower seeds, and as you can see, they came out so good that I just had to share!

    Rectangle pieces of sesame seed candy on a wooden board.

    Sesame seeds, originating in Africa and cultivated across Asia, have a 5,000-year history, inspiring unique variations of sesame seed bars. From Greece’s Pastelli to Israel’s Sukariyot Soomsoom, these timeless treats resemble the commercially sold sesame snaps.

    People call it cubbaita in Sicily, and in Calabria, they call this candy with sesame seeds Confetto di Giuggiulena.

    The best part?

    Making this kind of candy is not as challenging as you might think. There’s no need for candy thermometers or complex equipment.

    I’ve been making this delightful recipe for over ten years, and I can assure you it’s a straightforward and rewarding process.

    You can create this delightful, nutty-sweet, and crunchy sesame candy with just three ingredients – sesame seeds, honey, and sugar.

    I recently tested this recipe with sunflower seeds and the results were amazing! I can’t wait to share this simple process perfect for novice and experienced cooks.

    Jump to:
    • Ingredients
    • Step-by-step instructions
    • Tips
    • FAQ
    • Serving suggestions
    • No-bake Christmas treats
    • Recipe origin
    • No bake treats
    • Recipe
    Ingredients to make sesame nougat.

    Ingredients

    • White sesame seeds: A fundamental ingredient offering a delightful nutty flavor.
    • Sugar: This critical ingredient contributes to the satisfying crunch of the sesame bars.
    • Honey: A natural sweetener that binds the ingredients together.
    • Orange: This is an optional ingredient for flavoring.

    Step-by-step instructions

    Prepare the pan and parchment paper: Lightly coat two sheets of parchment paper with non-stick spray. Use one sheet to line a large baking sheet. We will use the other sheet to cover the top of the sesame candy mixture, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the rolling pin. If using a marble surface, you only need one sheet of parchment paper.

    Toast sesame seeds: In the large non-stick pan, toast 2 cups of raw sesame seeds over medium heat until golden brown. Notice how they release a nutty aroma.

    This step takes 3-4 minutes. Stir constantly to avoid burning. Once toasted, remove from the pan and set aside.

    Check out my detailed guide on how to toast sesame seeds for more information.

    A photo collage of sugar and honey combined and heated in a large pan.

    Make the sugar syrup: In the same pan, combine ½ cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of honey. Stir with a wooden spoon over low heat until the mixture reaches a smooth, thick consistency.

    After 2-3 minutes, the mixture will darken. When it does, it is time to add the sesame seeds.  Be cautious not to overcook or burn it.

    A photo collage of shaping the sesame seed mixture.

    Add sesame seeds: Add the toasted sesame seeds to the sugar syrup. Stir quickly to coat the seeds evenly.

    Transfer to a sheet pan or marble surface: Pour the mixture onto the parchment-lined sheet pan (or marble surface). Place another sheet of parchment paper over the top.  Use a rolling pin to flatten and spread the mixture to approximately ¼- ½ inch (or whatever thickness you prefer)—working quickly while it’s still pliable.

    A photo collage of how to cut the sesame seed candy.

    Cut into pieces while still warm: Lightly coat a sharp knife with oil and use it to slice the candy into your preferred pieces. In the accompanying video, which you can find on the recipe card, I demonstrate cutting them into rhomboid shapes similar to my mostaccioli cookies. I opted for thicker bars in the photos since I added a handful of sunflower seeds.

    Optional: After rolling out your nougat, gently rub the surface with half a lemon or orange, imparting a delightful citrus aroma.

    Rectangle pieces of sesame candy on a wooden board.

    Tips

    Prepare in advance: Prepare your parchment paper, sheet pan, and rolling pin before you begin. The candy mixture sets rapidly, so preparing everything in advance ensures a smooth and efficient process.

    Gentle toasting: Shake the pan continuously to prevent burning when toasting sesame seeds. Sesame seeds can quickly go from perfectly toasted to overly dark, affecting the candy’s flavor.

    Customize with nuts and other seeds: Experiment with ingredients like a handful of almond slivers or blanched almonds for added texture and flavor. I love adding a handful of sunflower seeds to create a different, crunchy texture. This personal touch can make your sesame candy truly unique.

    Quick shaping:  Shape the candy quickly while it is warm and flexible. Use a knife to make the sides even. Then, cut it into small, equal-sized pieces.

    FAQ

    How long does homemade sesame candy stay fresh?

    When stored properly, this homemade candy stays fresh for several weeks. Its texture may become slightly softer over time, but the flavor remains delicious.

    How to store sesame seed candy

    Keep sesame candy fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will help maintain its texture and flavor over time. You can also use a tin box.

    Serving suggestions

    Charcuterie board: Incorporate small pieces of sesame candy into your charcuterie board as a sweet and nutty element to balance the savory and salty components like marinated olives and eggplant caponata. 

    On a dessert platter: Arrange your homemade candy on a dessert platter alongside other Italian Christmas Cookies like pizzelle, amaretti, and biscotti. 

    Dessert toppings: Use crumbled or chopped sesame candy as a special and crispy topping for ice cream, sweet ricotta, or this fresh fruit salad. It can also add texture and flavor to your favorite desserts.

    No-bake Christmas treats

    Who can resist homemade Italian holiday treats? They enhance your holiday dessert table and serve as the perfect choice for thoughtful hostess gifts. Here are a few of my favorite Italian treats:

    Calzone di Ceci: Try the flavors of Southern Italy with Calzone di Ceci, a rustic chickpea-filled calzone that’s so addictive!

    Pandoro Christmas Tree Cake: Create a festive centerpiece with store-bought Pandoro, an Italian Christmas cake. Shaped into a delightful tree, it’s a show-stopping dessert.

    Italian honey balls in a red bowl.

    Struffoli

    Experience the sweet magic of Struffoli, a classic Italian dessert made of deep-fried dough balls drizzled with honey and colorful sprinkles.

    Recipe origin

    Over a decade ago, my daughter-in-law’s parents introduced me to these homemade sesame snaps during the holidays. Since then, they’ve become a cherished part of my annual Christmas cookie platter.

    Nancy and her husband are from Isca Marina, located in the province of Catanzaro in the beautiful region of Calabria. People in this region know this sesame seed candy as Confetto di Giuggiulena. I’m thankful to Nancy for sharing this fantastic recipe.

    Why not add this Calabrian delight to your cookie platter and experience its deliciousness?

    Are you looking for more sesame seed recipes? Try these Italian sesame cookies, perfect for a holiday cookie platter!

    WELCOME! Sign up for my FREE NEWSLETTER for more delicious recipes, tips and updates!

    THANKS SO MUCH for following and being part of the She Loves Biscotti community, where you will find Simple & Tasty Family-Friendly Recipes with an Italian Twist.

    Ciao for now,

    Maria 

    ★★★★★ If you tried this Sesame Seed Nougat recipe, please share your experience in the comments and rate it!

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    Recipe

    Rectangle pieces of sesame seed candy on a wooden board.

    Homemade Italian Sesame Candy Recipe

    Create this delicious homemade Sesame Candy with just three simple ingredients: sesame seeds, honey, and sugar. You won't believe how easy it is to make this Italian confection! 
    5 from 6 votes
    Print Save RecipeSaved! Pin Rate
    Course: cookies
    Cuisine: Italian
    Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 15 minutes minutes
    Servings: 2 dozen
    Calories: 93kcal
    Author: Maria Vannelli RD
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    Ingredients

    • 2 cups sesame seeds 300 grams
    • ½ cup sugar 100 grams, granulated
    • 2 tablespoons honey 50 grams

    Instructions

    • Prepare a sheet pan, 2 sheets of parchment paper (lightly greased with non-stick spray), and a rolling pin.
    • Toast sesame seeds in a non-stick pan over medium heat until light golden brown. This can take 3-4 minutes. Keep shaking the pan to and fro as they toast very easily.
    • Remove from heat, place in bowl. Set aside.
    • Reduce heat to low.
    • Add sugar and honey in non-stick pan and stir until sugar has melted and begins to boil.
    • Stir continuously until mixture begins to darken (2-3 minutes).
    • Add roasted sesame seeds and combine.
    • Quickly turn out mixture in a parchment lined jelly roll pan.
    • Top with sheet of parchment paper (Be careful not to touch the mixture as it is very hot).
    • With a rolling pin, flatten the mixture to approximately ¼ inch (or whatever thickness you prefer).
    • Transfer to cutting board.
    • Cut immediately into rectangles, squares, or diamonds as the mixture gets hard as it cools down.
    • Optional: After flattening your nougat, gently rub the surface with half a lemon or orange, imparting a delightful citrus aroma.
    Enhance Your Cooking Experience!SCROLL UP for essential step-by-step photos embedded in the article above. When available, videos can be found in the next section. These visuals are designed to help you achieve perfect results every time. Happy cooking!

    Video

    Notes

    Prepare in advance: Prepare your parchment paper, sheet pan, and rolling pin before you begin. The candy mixture sets rapidly, so preparing everything in advance ensures a smooth and efficient process.
    Gentle toasting: When toasting sesame seeds, shake the pan continuously to prevent burning. Sesame seeds can quickly go from perfectly toasted to overly dark, affecting the candy’s flavor.
    Customize with nuts and other seeds: Experiment with other ingredients like a handful of almond slivers or blanched almonds for added texture and flavor. This personal touch can make your sesame candy truly unique. I recently tested the recipe with sunflower seeds and they came out so good that I took these pictures of them.
    Quick shaping:  While the candy is still warm and pliable, you can also use the side of a knife to even out the sides before cutting it into uniform, bite-sized pieces.
    Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with other flavorings such as vanilla extract, cinnamon, or even a touch of sea salt to customize the taste of your sesame candy.
    Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is just a rough estimate and variations can occur depending on the specific ingredients used. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1unit | Calories: 93kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 6g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 58mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g | Calcium: 122mg | Iron: 1.8mg
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    I originally published this article on November 18, 2014 and republished it on November 11, 2018 and October 26, 2023 with updated content, and photos. Thanks for sharing.

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    Filed Under: Christmas

    About Maria

    Maria Vannelli is a retired dietitian who lives in a suburb just outside Montreal, Canada. She's the founder of the food blog She Loves Biscotti. Maria hopes to inspire you and bring you and your loved ones closer together at meal times enabling you to create some memorable moments.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Crispy

      January 04, 2025 at 9:33 am

      5 stars
      Made these as a way to use up some sesame seeds I had lying around, and it was an excellent recipe! I’ll make it again for sure.

      Reply
      • Maria

        January 05, 2025 at 6:05 pm

        Thanks so much for sharing Crispy!

        Reply
    2. Melanie

      June 16, 2024 at 9:05 am

      5 stars
      I’ve been searching for my Nonna’s recipe & here it is😘🥰
      Delicioso!!!!

      Reply
    3. Lisa

      March 05, 2024 at 5:28 pm

      5 stars
      I came back from a trip to Sicily and I was obsessed with recreating the sesame biscuits I had there. These were absolutely perfect and exactly like the ones I bought in Palermo.
      Thank you Maria.

      Reply
      • Maria

        March 09, 2024 at 8:43 pm

        So thrilled to read this! Thanks for sharing Lisa!

        Reply
    4. Leticia mejia

      November 29, 2023 at 6:43 pm

      5 stars
      My favorites

      Reply
      • Maria

        November 29, 2023 at 10:18 pm

        Thanks Leticia! Such a delicious treat!

        Reply
    5. Maria

      October 27, 2023 at 6:32 am

      Hi Maria,
      I can’t wait to try this recipe . It’s looks so simple and delicious. Thank you for sharing all of your recipes look so delicious.
      Maria

      Reply
      • Maria

        October 27, 2023 at 8:53 am

        Thanks so much Maria ♥

        Reply
    6. Anne

      November 28, 2019 at 8:30 pm

      5 stars
      I made this recipe to take a community chorus potluck. All of our members love to bake and cook, and the table was loaded with delicious food, including a vast array of rich and sugar-loaded desserts. Several people asked me if I made the nougat and asked for the recipe. They loved the flavour (thanks to toasting the seeds first), and they aren’t too sweet. I’m making them again tonight for the same group. YUM, thanks Maria!

      Reply
      • Maria

        November 28, 2019 at 8:32 pm

        How wonderful Anne! Thanks so much for taking the time to share, appreciate it. Enjoy your evening.

        Reply
    7. Gabrielle @ eyecandypopper

      November 24, 2017 at 1:51 pm

      5 stars
      I always loved those sesame snacks as a kid, so it would be awesome to make my own! Yum!

      Reply
      • Maria

        November 24, 2017 at 4:03 pm

        Agreed… and they are so simple to make! Thanks so much for dropping by Gabrielle 😀

        Reply
    8. Diane Galambos

      November 24, 2017 at 1:00 pm

      Maria, stop it! Not sure how I will keep up with my own xmas baking and now I want to make all of your cookies too! Problem is that these sound wonderful… thx for the share. Hugs, Diane

      Reply
      • Maria

        November 24, 2017 at 3:57 pm

        My motto for the month of December has always been, so many cookies, so little time. I know you can relate 🙂 Thanks for dropping by ❤️

        Reply
    9. The Finer Cookie/Kim

      December 23, 2015 at 6:58 am

      Hello Maria, I just wanted to let you know that I made this Sesame Seed Nougat to include in my Christmas cookie basket. It was so delicious that I added the recipe to my website. I made sure to give you full credit and link back. Your post and instructions were very clear and easy to follow. Beautiful photo BTW. I hope our holiday season is a good one.

      I just want to thank you for such a beautiful recipe. If you have a moment to see my post, here’s the link: https://www.thefinercookie.com/recipe/sesame-seed-nougat/.

      Reply
      • Maria

        December 23, 2015 at 7:35 am

        Hi Kim! I absolutely Love your post. I truly feel honoured. Thank-you for sharing this wonderful family recipe. You’ve captured it…perfection!
        Wishing you and your loved ones all the best during this holiday season 🙂

        Reply

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