Easy Indian Baked Goods Recipes for Beginners

Indian cuisine is rich in flavors and has a variety of baked goods that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. For beginners looking to try their hand at Indian baking, here are some simple recipes that will yield delightful results.

1. Eggless Chocolate Cake

This moist and rich chocolate cake is perfect for any occasion. To make it, you will need:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla essence
  • 1/2 cup hot water

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the yogurt, oil, and vanilla. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well. Gradually stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth. Pour into a greased cake tin and bake for 30-35 minutes. Let it cool before serving.

2. Naan Bread

Naan is a popular Indian flatbread that you can easily make at home. You will need:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp instant yeast
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • Water as needed
  • Butter or ghee for brushing

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add yogurt and mix, then slowly incorporate water to form a soft dough. Knead for about 10 minutes and let it rest for at least an hour. Divide the dough into small balls, roll them out, and cook on a hot skillet until golden brown. Brush with melted butter or ghee before serving.

3. Semolina Cake (Suji Ka Cake)

This sumptuous cake is made from semolina and is extremely easy to prepare. Gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup semolina (sooji)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
  • Chopped nuts for garnish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix semolina, sugar, yogurt, oil, baking powder, and cardamom powder until well combined. Pour the batter into a greased cake tin and sprinkle chopped nuts on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow it to cool and slice before serving.

4. Paneer Tikka Pizza

This fusion dish is a hit with both kids and adults, blending Indian and Italian flavors. You will need:

  • 1 pre-made pizza base
  • 1 cup paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cubed
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, chopped
  • 1/2 cup onions, sliced
  • 1 cup pizza sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • Spices (tikka masala, chili powder, salt) to taste

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a bowl, marinate the paneer with tikka masala, chili powder, and salt. On the pizza base, spread pizza sauce and evenly distribute the marinated paneer, bell peppers, and onions. Top with shredded cheese. Bake for about 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Slice and serve hot.

These easy Indian baked goods recipes are perfect for beginners. They offer a chance to explore the rich flavors of Indian cuisine while building your baking skills. Enjoy baking!