Step 1

Line a loaf pan (8 and 1/2-inch by 4 and 1/2-inch) with parchment paper.

Step 3

Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan and heat over medium heat. Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture as soon as it comes to a boil. Remove the syrup from the heat once it reaches 250 °F. About 7-10 minutes of boining.

Step 5

Add the tahini, salt, and vanilla extract to a large mixing bowl and mix together.

Step 7

Carefully add the syrup to the tahini mixture along with nuts (if adding) and fold together until just combined. Be careful and don't overmix it otherwise it will begin to crumble.

Step 9

Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan. Set it aside to cool completely.

Step 11

Slice the halva and serve it with Greek coffee. Enjoy!