Mixing bowl A medium-sized bowl for combining the ingredients. Glass or ceramic is ideal for temperature retention.
Rubber spatula For smooth mixing and scraping the bowl clean.
Loaf Pan or Silicone Mold Use a loaf pan lined with parchment paper or silicone molds to shape the halva. Mini muffin trays or ice cube molds also work great for bite-sized portions.
Sharp knife For slicing into clean squares or rectangles once chilled.
Small Skillet (optional) To toast the almonds and pistachios, enhancing their flavor.
Ingredients
For the Halva Base
1cuptahinisesame paste, well stirred
1/3cupmaple syrupor agave syrup for a lighter sweetness
1tsppure rosewateradjust based on brand and strength
1/2tspvanilla extract
Pinchof salt
Mix-ins and Toppings
1/2cupslivered almondslightly toasted
1/4cuppistachioschopped, for garnish
1tbspdried rose petalsoptional but beautiful
1tbspcoconut flouroptional, for firmer texture
1tbspchopped dried apricots or cranberriesoptional, for fruity notes
Instructions
Toast the Almonds
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the slivered almonds until lightly golden and aromatic—about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and let them cool.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the tahini, maple syrup, rosewater, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and glossy. The mixture will thicken slightly as you stir.
Incorporate the Dry Mix-ins
Fold in the toasted almonds and any optional dried fruits. If you’d like a firmer halva texture, add the coconut flour at this stage. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Mold and Shape
Transfer the mixture into your prepared loaf pan or silicone molds. Use a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly. Smooth the top.
Garnish
Sprinkle the top with chopped pistachios and dried rose petals. Gently press them in so they adhere to the surface.
Chill
Place the pan in the fridge for at least 1 hour or until firm. The mixture should hold its shape when cut.
Slice and Serve
Once chilled, lift the halva out of the pan using the parchment. Cut into bite-sized squares or diamonds with a sharp knife. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 10 days.