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Greek Desserts for Easter (Pascha)?

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ssherie_

ssherie_

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I’m looking for some traditional Greek desserts to make for Easter (Pascha) this year. I know Tsoureki is a must, but I’d love to add a few more sweet treats to the table. Are there any classic Easter desserts that your family always makes?

I’ve heard about Galaktoboureko and Melomakarona, but are those common for Pascha, or are there more festive options? Also, any tips on making the perfect Tsoureki would be appreciated—mine always turns out too dense!

If you have any favorite recipes or recommendations for traditional or even modern Greek Easter sweets, I’d love to hear them. Bonus points for anything that pairs well with Greek coffee after the big feast.

Looking forward to your suggestions - thanks so much!
 
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ssherie_ said:
I’m looking for some traditional Greek desserts to make for Easter (Pascha) this year. I know Tsoureki is a must, but I’d love to add a few more sweet treats to the table. Are there any classic Easter desserts that your family always makes?

I’ve heard about Galaktoboureko and Melomakarona, but are those common for Pascha, or are there more festive options? Also, any tips on making the perfect Tsoureki would be appreciated—mine always turns out too dense!

If you have any favorite recipes or recommendations for traditional or even modern Greek Easter sweets, I’d love to hear them. Bonus points for anything that pairs well with Greek coffee after the big feast.

Looking forward to your suggestions - thanks so much!
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Hi! One dessert I make for Easter is Greek Ekmek Kataifi! It's not as sweet as other Greek desserts and I think it's a perfect way to end the meal. I have a 2 different ways to make it on my blog, with lots of different tips, too. Melomakarona are Christmas cookies, but these Ladokouloura (sesame cookies) are amazing with Greek coffee - they're my Yiayia's recipe! As for the Tsoureki, I have a complete guide on my blog with tons of tips and how to get the perfect stringy texture! My Tsoureki recipe includes 2 methods (stand mixer & an easy no-knead method). You'll find the complete recipes at the end of each post, which includes exact quantities, etc. Let me know how it goes!
 
Love that you’re bringing Greek sweets to your Pascha table! Tsoureki is definitely essential—make sure your dough gets plenty of time to rise, and try adding mahlepi and mastiha for that authentic aroma. If it’s turning out too dense, your yeast may need more warmth or time—let it double in size before shaping.

For other Easter treats, Koulourakia (buttery twisted cookies with a hint of orange) are a must in many households—perfect with Greek coffee after the feast! While Melomakarona and Kourabiedes are more common at Christmas, they’re still delicious any time.

Galaktoboureko isn’t traditionally Easter-specific but makes a stunning dessert for guests—who can say no to creamy custard and syrupy phyllo? For something festive, try Portokalopita (orange phyllo cake) for a zesty finish.

Wishing you a joyful and sweet Pascha celebration—kali anastasi!
 
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My Favorite Greek Ladokoulourakia Recipe

I love these olive oil cookies - I first had them in Greece and have been making them ever since.

Ingredients:​

  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground cloves (optional, but I love it)
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 4 to 4½ cups all-purpose flour
  • Optional: sesame seeds for topping

Instructions:​

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, sugar, orange zest, baking soda, cinnamon, and cloves.
  3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft, pliable dough forms. It should not stick to your hands.
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