How to Make Indian Puddings and Baked Sweets

Indian puddings and baked sweets are culinary delights that offer a unique blend of flavors and textures. From rich, creamy textures to delightful sweetness, these desserts are perfect for celebrations or as a comforting treat at home. Here’s how to make some traditional Indian puddings and baked sweets that will impress your family and friends.

1. Kheer (Rice Pudding)

Kheer, a classic Indian dessert, is a simple yet delicious rice pudding made with milk, rice, and sugar. To make kheer, follow these steps:

  • Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice, 4 cups full-fat milk, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds), 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder, and saffron strands.
  • Instructions:
    1. Wash the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes.
    2. In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil.
    3. Add the soaked rice and reduce the heat. Cook on low flame, stirring frequently, until the rice is cooked and the mixture thickens.
    4. Add sugar, cardamom powder, nuts, and saffron. Cook for another 5-10 minutes.
    5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with more nuts.

2. Besan Ladoo (Chickpea Flour Balls)

Besan ladoo is a traditional sweet made from roasted chickpea flour, ideal for festive occasions. Here’s how to prepare them:

  • Ingredients: 2 cups besan (chickpea flour), 1 cup ghee, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/4 cup chopped nuts, and a pinch of cardamom powder.
  • Instructions:
    1. Heat ghee in a pan, and add the besan. Roast on a low flame, stirring continuously until it turns golden brown and aromatic.
    2. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
    3. Add powdered sugar, cardamom powder, and chopped nuts. Mix well.
    4. Once the mixture is manageable, shape it into small balls (ladoos).
    5. Cool completely and store in an airtight container.

3. Sheera (Semolina Halwa)

Sheera, also known as suji halwa, is a delightful semolina pudding that can be prepared quickly. Follow these simple steps:

  • Ingredients: 1 cup semolina, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup ghee, 2 cups water, and a handful of nuts and raisins.
  • Instructions:
    1. Heat ghee in a pan and add semolina. Roast until golden brown.
    2. In a separate pot, boil water and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
    3. Slowly add the sugar-water mixture to the roasted semolina, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
    4. Add nuts and raisins, and cook until the mixture thickens.
    5. Serve warm, garnished with additional nuts.

4. Gajar Ka Halwa (Carrot Pudding)

This delectable dessert made from grated carrots is popular during winter festivals. Prepare it using these steps:

  • Ingredients: 1 kg grated carrots, 4 cups full-fat milk, 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup khoya (mawa), 1/4 cup ghee, and chopped nuts.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a heavy pan, add grated carrots and milk. Cook on medium heat until the mixture thickens.
    2. Add sugar and cook until it dissolves and the halwa is thick.
    3. Stir in khoya and ghee, mixing well.
    4. Garnish with chopped nuts before serving.

5. Rava Kesari (Semolina Cake)