Kazandibi | The Secret of Making Turkish Dessert

Last updated Aug 24, 2025

Kazandibi

Kazandibi is one of the famous Turkish desserts that has a very attractive taste and color. This famous dessert is made with milk, which is a source of protein and calcium. It is a great option for parties and afternoon tea.

If you love traditional Turkish desserts like Kazandibi, you should also try Sheer Yakh, a refreshing frozen milk dessert that offers a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Milk is one of the most important ingredients in sweets and desserts in the world. The calcium in milk is essential for the body, and if your children refuse to eat it, by replacing these desserts, you will give their bodies the calcium and protein it contains.

This dessert is prepared in two stages, the first stage is called Muhlebi. This stage is preparing the internal ingredients of this dessert and it is very soft and delicious. The second stage is preparing it on the table, which has a very beautiful color.

Ingredients for preparing Kazandibi: The Secret of Making Turkish Dessert

This attractive dessert requires full-fat milk and makes its taste much better. Kazandibi is very similar to Sutluk, which is also a delicious Turkish dessert.

Milk	1 Liter
Sugar	1 Cup
Flour	1 Cup
Butter	1 Tablespoon
Corn or wheat starch	1 Tablespoon
Vanilla	Half a teaspoon

How to make Kazandibi: The secret to making a Turkish dessert

Step 1

First, prepare the inner ingredients or the custard so that your dessert is ready quickly. To do this, combine the milk, flour, sugar and starch in a suitable container and stir them with a mixer until there are no lumps.

Step 2

Put these ingredients on the heat and stir until it thickens and becomes smooth. After it thickens, remove from the heat and add the butter and vanilla to it and stir until the butter melts with the heat of the ingredients.

Step 3

Put a non-stick tray on the heat and pour a cup of sugar on it. Spread the sugar gently on the surface of the tray and remove it from the heat after it melts and changes color. Spread the custard on it and refrigerate for 5 to 6 hours.

Step 4

After this dessert has cooled, you can cut it and roll it with a suitable spatula and decorate it with cocoa powder or pistachio powder.

Benefits of Kazandibi for the body

Source of calcium
High protein
Strengthens bone strength and growth
Source of energy

Disadvantages of Kazandibi: The secret to making Turkish dessert

High calories
Increases body fat
High sugar
Digestive problems

What is Kazandibi?

Kazandibi literally means “bottom of the kazan (cauldron or pot)” in Turkish, which hints at the unique preparation technique of this dessert. It is a caramelized milk pudding with a slightly burnt, golden crust on the bottom that gives it its characteristic flavor and texture.

Unlike other milk puddings, Kazandibi is distinguished by this caramelized surface, which adds a deep, smoky sweetness that balances the creamy softness of the pudding itself. This contrast makes Kazandibi a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

History and Origin of Kazandibi Dessert

The history of kazan dibi traces back to Ottoman times, where innovative cooks experimented with milk-based puddings. The name reflects the cooking process—after slowly simmering the pudding in a large pot, the dessert is flipped to reveal the caramelized bottom as the top layer.

Over the centuries, Kazandibi has become a staple in Turkish dessert culture, often served at special occasions, family gatherings, and traditional Turkish restaurants.

Main Ingredients in a Classic Kazandibi Recipe

The beauty of Kazandibi lies in its simplicity. The traditional Kazandibi recipe requires just a few basic ingredients:

Milk: Full-fat milk is preferred for a creamy texture.
Sugar: For sweetness and caramelization.
Rice flour or cornstarch: Used as a thickening agent to create the pudding consistency.
Butter: A small amount helps create the caramelized crust.
Vanilla extract: Optional, to enhance flavor.

Some modern variations also include cream or eggs, but the authentic recipe stays true to these simple ingredients.

How to Make Kazandibi: Step-by-Step Recipe

Ready to try your hand at this delightful Kazandibi dessert? Follow this easy step-by-step recipe:

Ingredients:

4 cups whole milk
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup rice flour or cornstarch
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine sugar and rice flour (or cornstarch). Stir well to break any lumps.

Step 2: Heat the Milk
Pour the milk into a saucepan and warm it over medium heat. Slowly add the dry mixture into the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

Step 3: Cook Until Thickened
Continue cooking while stirring frequently until the mixture thickens into a pudding-like consistency. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Pan for Caramelization
Melt the butter evenly on the bottom of a wide, shallow pan. Pour the thickened pudding into the pan, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Caramelize the Bottom
Cook the pudding over medium heat without stirring for 10-15 minutes. The bottom layer will start to caramelize and turn golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Flip
Let the pudding cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. When ready to serve, place a plate on top of the pan and carefully flip it over to reveal the caramelized “kazan dibi” crust on top.

Tips for the Perfect Kazandibi Dessert

Use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking and make flipping easier.
Be patient during caramelization; avoid stirring while the pudding is cooking on the pan to develop a perfect crust.
Adjust sugar according to your taste but don’t skip it; it’s essential for the caramelized flavor.
For a richer taste, add a splash of cream or a small amount of butter to the pudding mix.
Serve chilled, often garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed pistachios for added texture and aroma.

Variations of Kazandibi

While the classic Kazandibi recipe remains popular, there are interesting variations across Turkey and beyond:

Chocolate Kazandibi: Cocoa powder or melted chocolate is added to the pudding mixture.
Coconut Kazandibi: Desiccated coconut mixed into the pudding or sprinkled on top.
Rosewater or Orange Blossom: Traditional floral waters sometimes added for an aromatic twist.

Why Kazandibi is a Must-Try Turkish Dessert

If you’re exploring Turkish sweets, Kazandibi offers a unique experience unlike any other dessert. Its contrast between creamy and caramelized textures, its simple ingredients, and deep-rooted cultural heritage make it a memorable treat.

Whether you enjoy it as a light finish to a rich meal or as a comforting snack, Kazandibi dessert is a delicious way to connect with Turkish culinary traditions.

What is Kazandibi and where does it originate from?
What are the main ingredients used in Kazandibi?
How do you achieve the caramelized crust on Kazandibi?
Can Kazandibi be made without milk or with alternative ingredients?

Conclusion

Turkish desserts have a very attractive appearance and good taste, and Kazandibi is one of them. Its tempting golden color makes your party table more attractive. In this article, we have taught you the best and easiest way to prepare this delicious dessert.

In addition to its beautiful appearance, this dessert is rich in calcium and protein, which is beneficial for all family members. Prepare Turkish Kazandibi at home and share your thoughts with us.