Zefir is a delightfully light and airy confection, beloved for its cloud-like texture and gentle sweetness. Originating from Eastern Europe, this treat is a perfect balance of elegance and comfort, making it a favorite for special occasions or a simple snack with tea.

Lykkers, let’s explore the charm of zefir and why it holds a unique place in the world of sweets.

What Makes Zefir Special?

Zefir stands out for its soft, marshmallow-like texture, achieved by combining whipped fruit purée with sugar, egg whites, and a natural gelling agent like agar-agar. It’s lighter than traditional marshmallows and has a fruity tang that sets it apart. Commonly flavored with berries such as raspberry or blackcurrant, zefir also comes in vanilla or citrus variations, offering a delightful range of tastes.

Its name, derived from the Greek word "zephyros," meaning "gentle breeze," perfectly captures its delicate and airy nature.

A Simple Zefir Recipe to Try

Making zefir at home can be a fun and rewarding experience.

Here’s a basic recipe to get started:

Ingredients:

1 cup fruit purée (e.g., apple or berry)

1.5 cups sugar

1 egg white

1 tbsp agar-agar

1/2 cup water

Steps:

1. Heat the fruit purée and 1 cup of sugar over low heat until the sugar dissolves.

2. In a small saucepan, mix agar-agar with water and boil for 1–2 minutes until thickened.

3. Whip the egg white with the remaining sugar until soft peaks form.

4. Gradually add the fruit purée and agar-agar mixture while whipping, creating a fluffy consistency.

5. Pipe or spoon the mixture onto parchment paper in small swirls. Let it set for 4–5 hours at room temperature.

Zefir can be enjoyed plain or dusted with powdered sugar for a classic finish.

Where to Find the Best Zefir

For those who want to savor professionally made zefir, here are some top locations to explore:

Zefir Delights (Kyiv): Known for its handcrafted zefir in various fruit flavors. Prices start at $5 per box.

Sweet Winds (Moscow): Offers traditional zefir with a modern twist, including chocolate-coated options. Prices range from ₽400–₽800.

Fruit Cloud Café (Warsaw, Poland): Specializes in zefir with exotic flavors like mango and passionfruit. Boxes start at €7.

Russian Strawberry Zephyr recipe (Marshmallow)

Video by Lioka from Russia

Fun Ways to Enjoy Zefir

With Tea or Coffee: Zefir pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, enhancing its soft sweetness.

Dessert Topping: Add zefir to cakes, cupcakes, or ice cream for a decorative and tasty touch.

Gift Idea: Beautifully packaged zefir makes an elegant and thoughtful gift for any occasion.

Fun Facts About Zefir

Zefir is considered a healthier alternative to many sweets, as it’s typically made with natural fruit purées, zefir is considered a lighter sweet option.

It’s a popular treat in many Eastern European countries, often enjoyed during festive celebrations.

Agar-agar, a key ingredient, is derived from seaweed, making zefir suitable for vegetarians.

Why Lykkers Should Love Zefir

Zefir is more than just a sweet—it’s a taste of tradition and creativity. Its airy texture, fruity flavors, and artistic presentation make it a standout confection that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Lykkers, whether you’re crafting your own or trying authentic versions from Eastern Europe, zefir is a magical treat that’s sure to bring a smile.