Are you a sweet tooth enthusiast? Do you love indulging in rich, creamy, and flavorful desserts that are sure to satisfy your cravings? Then you’re in luck! Indian cuisine has a plethora of mouth-watering desserts that will transport your taste buds to a world of pure bliss. From classic gulab jamun to the creamy kheer, India’s dessert repertoire is nothing short of impressive. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delectable Indian dessert recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats like rasmalai or prefer something a little crunchier like jalebi, there’s an Indian dessert out there for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of Indian desserts and get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun is a popular Indian dessert that consists of dumplings made from milk solids, deep-fried and soaked in a sweet syrup flavored with rosewater and cardamom. This recipe yields soft and fluffy jamuns coated in a flavorful gulab syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk powder
– 1/2 cup ghee or oil
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Syrup ingredients (see below)
Syrup Ingredients:
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Chopped pistachios or almonds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Mix milk powder, ghee or oil, and baking soda in a bowl.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Deep-fry the jamuns in hot oil until they are golden brown.
6. Soak the fried jamuns in the prepared syrup for at least 30 minutes.
7. Garnish with chopped nuts and serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time:
– Frying: 3-4 minutes per batch
– Soaking: 30 minutes
Rasmalai
Ras malai, a popular Indian dessert, is a creamy and sweet treat made with paneer (Indian cheese), milk, sugar, and nuts. This recipe brings together the classic flavors of this beloved dessert in a simple and easy-to-follow way.
Ingredients:
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios or almonds
– 1 tablespoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, combine the crumbled paneer and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the milk to the pan and stir gently until it comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Stir in the chopped nuts, cardamom powder, and saffron-infused water.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kheer
Kheer, a popular Indian dessert, is a simple and comforting rice pudding flavored with cardamom and nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
– 3 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
– Chopped almonds or pistachios for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, and cardamom powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Add the drained rice to the milk mixture and stir well. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the ghee or butter until melted. Let it cool slightly before serving.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts and serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Jalebi
Jalebi is a popular Indian dessert made by deep-frying fermented batter into crispy, sweet, and syrupy delights. This recipe yields 12-15 jalebis.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast (instant or regular)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup lukewarm water
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Syrup ingredients (below)
Syrup:
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• Cardamom powder, optional
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a smooth batter. Let it rest for 30 minutes to allow fermentation.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to medium-high heat (350°F).
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the hot oil. Fry until golden and crispy (3-4 minutes per side).
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. In a separate pan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10 minutes or until syrup thickens slightly.
7. Dip fried jalebis in the warm syrup for 1-2 seconds per side.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with cardamom powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including fermentation time)
Besan Ladoo
Besan Ladoo is a popular Indian sweet made with gram flour, ghee, and nuts. This simple recipe yields a batch of soft, chewy laddoos that are perfect for snacking or as an offering to the gods.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup ghee
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the besan and sugar.
2. Add the ghee and mix until the mixture forms a smooth dough.
3. Fold in the chopped almonds and cardamom powder.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes pliable and easy to shape.
5. Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a small marble.
6. Shape each portion into a round laddoo and roll between your palms to smooth out.
7. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake recipe!
Tips:
– Store the laddoos in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
– You can also add a few strands of saffron or a teaspoon of rosewater for extra flavor and color.
Gajar Ka Halwa
A traditional Indian dessert made with carrots, milk, and nuts, Gajar Ka Halwa is a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– Cardamom powder, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the ghee or butter in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add the grated carrots and cook until they start to caramelize, stirring occasionally (about 10 minutes).
3. Add the milk, flour, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and the carrots are tender.
5. Stir in the chopped nuts and sugar.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
7. Garnish with cardamom powder and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Shahi Tukda
A popular Indian dessert, Shahi Tukda is a rich and creamy treat that’s perfect for special occasions. This recipe yields 6-8 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed tea (black or green)
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios or almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the brewed tea and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the milk and salt to the tea mixture. Whisk until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the melted ghee or butter until fully incorporated.
5. Stir in the chopped nuts and cardamom powder (if using).
6. Pour the Shahi Tukda into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Malpua
A traditional Indian dessert from Gujarat, Malpua is a sweet and crispy flatbread that’s fried to perfection and served with a dollop of rabri or shrikhand. This recipe yields 8-10 malpuas.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Optional: cardamom powder, chopped nuts, or dried fruits for garnish
Instructions:
1. Mix flour, ghee or oil, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a soft dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
3. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry malpuas until golden brown, flipping halfway through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm or at room temperature with rabri or shrikhand.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Moong Dal Halwa
Moong dal halwa is a popular Indian sweet dish made with split green gram, ghee, and nuts. This recipe yields a creamy and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup moong dal (split green gram)
– 1 cup ghee
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds or pistachios
– Pinch of salt
– Cardamom powder, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the moong dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and blend the moong dal into a smooth paste.
3. Heat the ghee in a large saucepan over medium heat.
4. Add the blended moong dal paste, sugar, and salt to the ghee.
5. Cook, stirring constantly, for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture thickens and turns golden brown.
6. Stir in the chopped nuts and cook for another minute.
7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
8. Garnish with cardamom powder and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peda
A traditional Indian sweet treat, Peda is a soft, creamy delight that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk powder
– 1/2 cup ghee or unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk powder, ghee or butter, and sugar.
2. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cardamom powder, if using.
4. Pour onto a greased plate or tray and let cool slightly.
5. Use a spatula or your hands to shape into desired shapes (e.g., small patties).
6. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Badam Halwa
A classic Indian dessert, Badam Halwa is a rich and creamy pudding made with almonds, milk, and sugar. This recipe yields a smooth and velvety halwa that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup blanched almonds
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Soak the almonds in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and grind the almonds into a smooth paste using a blender or food processor.
3. In a large saucepan, combine the ground almonds, milk, sugar, cardamom powder, ghee, and salt.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a creamy pudding (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rabri
A classic Indian dessert, Rabri is a sweet and creamy treat that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. This recipe yields a delicious and authentic Rabri that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter milk
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice flour
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Chopped nuts and dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and rice flour. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a smooth custard-like consistency.
2. Remove from heat and stir in cardamom powder and saffron threads.
3. Allow Rabri to cool slightly before refrigerating for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Just before serving, garnish with chopped nuts and dried fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Phirni
Phirni is a popular Indian dessert made with milk, sugar, and nuts. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds or pistachios
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
– A pinch of cardamom powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine the milk and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the milk thickens slightly.
3. Stir in the chopped nuts and ghee or butter until well combined.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kaju Katli
A traditional Indian sweet dish, Kaju Katli is a delightful treat made with cashews, nuts, and spices. This recipe yields a delicious, creamy, and crunchy snack perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cashews
– 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios)
Instructions:
1. Soak the cashews in water for at least 2 hours.
2. Drain and grind the cashews into a smooth paste using a blender or grinder.
3. Heat the ghee in a pan over medium heat.
4. Add the sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron mixture to the pan. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
5. Add the cashew paste to the pan and stir continuously for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and turns light golden brown.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
7. Add the chopped nuts and mix well.
8. Shape into desired shapes (e.g., squares, rectangles, or diamonds).
9. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious homemade Kaju Katli!
Sandesh
Sandesh, a popular Bengali sweet treat, is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
INGREDIENTS:
– 1 cup milk powder
– 1/2 cup grated coconut
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ghee or butter, melted
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine milk powder, grated coconut, sugar, cardamom powder, and salt. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined.
2. Add the melted ghee or butter and mix until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Shape the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
5. Flatten each ball slightly to form a disk shape.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruits, if desired.
COOKING TIME:
– No cooking required! Sandesh is best served fresh and at room temperature.
Balushahi
These crispy, sweet, and spiced cookies are a popular Indian treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup gram flour (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, gram flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add sugar, oil, nuts (if using), cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let the cookies cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Puran Poli
A traditional Indian sweet treat from Gujarat, Puran Poli is a delicious, flaky flatbread filled with a sweet and nutty filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
Filling:
– 1 cup split green gram (moong dal) soaked overnight and cooked until mushy
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Mix flour, ghee or oil, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide into 6-8 portions.
5. Roll each portion into a thin circle.
6. Place 1/4 cup of the filling in the center of each circle.
7. Fold and press edges to seal.
8. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cham Cham
A popular Indian dessert, Cham Cham is a creamy pudding-like treat flavored with cardamom and nuts. This recipe makes about 12-15 pieces.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon rose water (optional)
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds and pistachios
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Water, for soaking
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cardamom, and rose water (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the melted ghee or butter until fully incorporated.
4. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, mix in the chopped nuts and cornstarch. Add a little water to achieve a thick but pourable consistency.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Rasgulla
Rasgulla is a popular Bengali dessert made with paneer (Indian cheese), sugar, and cardamom. These soft and spongy dumplings are soaked in syrup and served warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients:
– 250 gm paneer
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Vegetable oil for deep-frying
Instructions:
1. Cut the paneer into small cubes.
2. Mix together sugar, water, and cardamom in a pan and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until the syrup thickens slightly.
4. Add lemon juice and stir well.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan and fry the paneer cubes until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and soak the fried paneer in the warm syrup for at least 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Kulfi
A traditional Indian ice cream made with milk, cream, and spices, kulfi is a popular dessert that’s easy to make at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Chopped pistachios or almonds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, cream, and sugar. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add cardamom powder and saffron mixture to the mixture. Whisk well.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once the kulfi is almost set, remove it from the freezer and stir in any remaining ice crystals that have formed on the sides of the bowl.
5. Return the kulfi to the freezer and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including churning time)
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 delicious Indian dessert recipes! From classic treats like Gulab Jamun and Rasmalai to innovative creations like Besan Ladoo and Kaju Katli, this collection has something for everyone. Discover how to make traditional favorites like Kheer and Jalebi, as well as unique desserts like Shahi Tukda and Malpua. With a range of ingredients and cooking methods, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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