Forget chocolate bars — in Georgia, the ultimate sweet treat looks like a candle! 🍇🥜 Churchkhela, often called the “Georgian Snickers,” is made by dipping strings of walnuts (or hazelnuts) into thickened grape juice. In this post,WIn this guide, you’ll discover the story behind Churchkhela, how it’s made, where to try it in Tbilisi, and how you can even join a workshop to make your own.
🍇 What is Churchkhela?
Churchkhela is a traditional Georgian sweet made by threading walnuts, hazelnuts, or almonds onto a string, dipping them into thickened grape juice (tatara), and then hanging them to dry. The result is a chewy, naturally sweet snack packed with flavor and energy.
Historically, Churchkhela was prepared during Rtveli (the autumn grape harvest) and stored for winter as a nutritious food for travelers and warriors. Today, it’s one of the most iconic souvenirs and beloved treats in Georgia
How Churchkhela is Made
The process of making Churchkhela is as beautiful as the result:
- Threading the Nuts – Walnuts (most common), hazelnuts, or almonds are carefully threaded onto a long string.
- Preparing the Tatara – Grape juice is boiled and thickened with flour until it becomes a rich, velvety mixture.
- Dipping – The nut strings are dipped multiple times into the tatara, each layer drying slightly before the next.
- Drying – Finally, the strings are hung in a cool place for several days until firm and ready to eat.
👉 Want to try it yourself? Book a Churchkhela-Making Workshop in Batumi:
Where to Try Churchkhela in Tbilisi
If you’re visiting the capital, you won’t have to look far:
- Dezertirebi Market – Rows of colorful Churchkhelas hanging from stalls.
- Dry Bridge Market – Great for both sweets and souvenirs.
- Roadside Vendors – On highways outside Tbilisi, especially towards Kakheti.
- Local Bakeries & Sweet Shops – Many small shops sell freshly made varieties.
- I Reccomend try trying churchkhela from Badagi in Tbilsii. They have several branches including one in Galleria shopping Mall in the center of Tbilisi.
Join a Churchkhela-Making Workshop
For the most authentic experience, join a cooking class or village family workshop. Not only do you get to make your own Churchkhela, but you’ll also learn about Georgian winemaking traditions (since the sweet is tied to grape harvests). Many workshops include wine tastings, traditional bread baking, and a supra (Georgian feast).
👉 Reserve your Churchkhela Cooking Workshop in Batumi city: here
Taking Churchkhela Home
One of the best things about Churchkhela is its durability — it doesn’t spoil quickly, making it a perfect souvenir or travel snack.
- Shelf life: up to 6 months in a cool, dry place.
- Travel tip: Wrap them in paper, not plastic, so they can breathe.
🌿 Practical Tips
- Best Season: Autumn (harvest time), though available year-round.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: 100% natural – no artificial sugar, just grapes and nuts.
- Energy Snack: Historically carried by warriors, now perfect for hikers
Churchkhela is more than just a sweet – it’s a bite-sized story of Georgia’s culture, history, and love of hospitality. Whether you buy it in a market, make it in a workshop, or bring it home as a gift, this traditional treat is a must-try for anyone visiting Georgia.
