Name: Easy Loukoumades Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: 1 cup lukewarm water; 2 tablespoons sugar; 2 tablespoons active dry yeast; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 cup lukewarm milk; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; oil for frying (grapeseed oil recommended); 1/3 cup crushed nuts (walnuts, cashews, or pistachios; combination of walnuts and cashews used); ground cinnamon (to serve); powdered sugar (to serve); 1 cup water; 1 cup honey; 1 cup sugar

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 54 reviews

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for delightful, fluffy treats, you are going to adore this Easy Loukoumades Recipe. These golden, bite-sized Greek doughnuts soaked in fragrant honey syrup bring a perfect harmony of crispy exterior and pillowy softness inside that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds). Whether you’re new to Loukoumades or have been a fan for ages, this recipe offers a straightforward way to bring a bit of Mediterranean magic right into your kitchen. The combination of simple pantry staples with the luscious syrup and crunchy nuts makes this dish an irresistible crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate holds about a dozen golden brown round dough balls, each with a slightly shiny and crispy surface. The dough balls are sprinkled with white powdered sugar and scattered with small pieces of chopped nuts. The plate sits on a dark wooden table, with some powdered sugar and nuts spilled around the plate. Part of a white bowl filled with more chopped nuts is visible in the top right corner. The scene is bright and clear, showing the texture of the dough balls and the table. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

One of the best things about this Easy Loukoumades Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each component plays an essential role in creating that classic texture and flavor that makes these doughnuts so special, from the yeast that gives life to the dough to the warm honey syrup that dresses them up beautifully.

1 cup lukewarm water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough for the perfect rise.
2 tablespoons sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
2 tablespoons active dry yeast: The key to that light and airy texture.
3 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base for our doughnuts, providing structure.
2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps keep the texture tender and soft inside.
1 cup lukewarm milk: Adds richness and a subtle creaminess to the dough.
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Infuses gentle flavor and keeps the dough moist.
Oil for frying (grapeseed oil preferred): Neutral oil with a high smoke point perfect for frying.
1/3 cup crushed nuts (walnuts, cashews, pistachios): Offers delightful crunch and a nutty contrast.
Ground cinnamon: Classic spice to sprinkle on top enhancing warmth and aroma.
Powdered sugar: Adds a delicate sweetness and pretty finishing touch.
For the syrup – 1 cup water: The liquid base for luscious honey syrup.
1 cup honey: The star ingredient for that sticky, fragrant sweetness unique to Loukoumades.
1 cup sugar: Balances the syrup’s flavor with just the right level of sweetness.

How to Make Easy Loukoumades Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by mixing lukewarm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Set it aside for 10 minutes until your mixture bubbles up and looks foamy. This little foamy miracle confirms your yeast is alive and kicking, which means your loukoumades will rise beautifully.

Step 2: Combine and Knead the Dough

Add the flour, cornstarch, lukewarm milk, and olive oil into the yeast mixture. Stir everything together using a wooden spoon, then knead for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the doughnut its signature chewiness.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Cover your bowl tightly with plastic wrap and tuck it away somewhere warm for an hour. Patience is key here because when the dough doubles in size, it means it’s ready to become those delightful golden puffs we’re after.

Step 4: Prepare the Honey Syrup

While the dough is resting, make the luscious honey syrup. Combine water, honey, and sugar in a small saucepan. Stir and bring it to a boil then simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes until it thickens slightly. Set it aside to cool, so it’s perfect for dunking your hot loukoumades.

Step 5: Shape the Doughballs

Once your dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Lightly oil your hands to stop sticking, then form the dough into small balls about the size of a golf ball. You should get around 40 to 60 balls, which means plenty to share or savor over a cozy weekend morning.

Step 6: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat grapeseed oil in a saucepan to about 325 degrees Fahrenheit (medium heat). Working in batches, carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil using a lightly oiled spoon and fry for 2 to 3 minutes, turning so they brown evenly. Once golden and irresistible, transfer them to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Dunk and Dress

While still warm, dunk the loukoumades into the cool honey syrup so they soak up that incredible sticky sweetness without becoming soggy. Lay them out on a serving platter, drizzle with extra syrup, and sprinkle generously with powdered sugar, cinnamon, and crushed nuts for that unmistakable Greek flair.

How to Serve Easy Loukoumades Recipe

A shiny silver pot with two handles is filled with a warm orange-brown liquid with swirling white cream on the top, creating a smooth, mixed texture. The pot sits on a white marbled surface that has a soft, clean look, highlighting the rich colors inside the pot. The liquid looks thick and appealing, with the cream adding a creamy contrast to the orange base. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Loukoumades shine brightest when adorned with a dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of aromatic ground cinnamon, and a handful of crushed nuts like walnuts or pistachios. These garnishes add layers of flavor and texture, making each bite a delightful surprise that sings with every forkful.

Side Dishes

While these treats can be star performers all on their own, serving them alongside fresh fruit, a cup of strong Greek coffee, or a refreshing mint tea elevates the experience. The contrast between the sweet, warm loukoumades and a crisp, palate-cleansing drink makes for a perfect pairing.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Easy Loukoumades Recipe in individual small bowls drizzled with syrup and topped with a mint leaf for elegance. Or stack them in a pyramid on a platter, letting the syrup cascade down the sides like a gooey, golden waterfall—your guests will be utterly charmed by both the look and the taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If luck has it and you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for one day. The loukoumades will soften slightly but maintain their delicious flavor. To keep them fresh longer, it’s best to avoid syrup storage until just before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze unfried dough balls instead of cooking them all at once. Arrange the shaped balls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you want fresh loukoumades, simply fry them straight from the freezer—no need to thaw.

Reheating

To revive leftover loukoumades, reheat briefly in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes. This method helps restore a slight crispness before drizzling with fresh syrup and toppings for that freshly made feeling.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! If you use instant yeast, simply mix it directly with the dry ingredients without proofing. It will still give you the lovely rise needed for perfect loukoumades.

What oil is best for frying loukoumades?

Grapeseed oil is fantastic for frying because it has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, but vegetable, sunflower, or canola oils also work well.

How long can I keep the honey syrup?

The honey syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Warm it slightly before using to get that perfect pourable consistency.

Why are cornstarch and flour both used in the dough?

Cornstarch helps create a tender, light inside texture, while flour provides the necessary structure and elasticity for frying. Together, they balance the dough perfectly.

Is it necessary to oil my hands when shaping the dough?

Yes, lightly oiling your hands prevents sticking and makes it much easier to form the small, smooth balls of dough that fry up evenly and beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Loukoumades Recipe is truly a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. With its approachable ingredients and straightforward steps, it invites everyone to experience a little slice of Greek tradition in their own home. Go ahead and try this recipe—you’ll be rewarded with warm, golden bites of heaven that everyone will love! Don’t forget to share the sweetness and fun of making these classic treats with your loved ones.