Discovering Loukoumades: Greece’s Sweet Golden Bites

If you’ve never heard of loukoumades, prepare for your dessert world to expand in the most delicious way. These golden, honey-soaked dough balls are Greece’s answer to the doughnut—and they’ve been delighting sweet tooths for centuries.

What Are Loukoumades?

Loukoumades (pronounced loo-koo-MAH-thes) are small, deep-fried balls of dough, traditionally soaked in a warm honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon and crushed nuts. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they’re often served piping hot—ideal for sharing (but good luck with that).

Think of them as Greek doughnut holes, but with an ancient twist. In fact, historians trace them all the way back to the first Olympic Games in ancient Greece, where victors were rewarded not only with glory but with these golden "honey tokens."

How They’re Made

Making loukoumades is easier than you might think. The dough is typically made from flour, water, yeast, and a touch of sugar. After rising, it’s dropped into hot oil in small spoonfuls until puffed and golden. Once out of the fryer, they take a quick swim in warm honey syrup and get dusted with cinnamon and sometimes sesame seeds or crushed walnuts.

Modern Twists

While the classic honey-drenched version remains iconic, modern takes on loukoumades have gone wild in the best way. You’ll find them filled with Nutella, drizzled with chocolate or caramel, topped with ice cream, or even savory-style with feta and herbs.

In places like Athens, trendy loukoumades shops are popping up everywhere, serving this humble dessert with a gourmet twist.

Why You Need to Try Them

Loukoumades are one of those rare treats that feel both nostalgic and new. Whether you’re eating them at a Greek festival, trying them in a hip café in Thessaloniki, or frying up a batch at home, they’re guaranteed to bring joy.

They’re not just dessert—they’re tradition, celebration, and a little taste of history.

Ready to try making loukoumades? Contact us for your machinery questions.