Indian Baked Goods for the Holidays: Recipes You’ll Love

As the holidays approach, the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air, bringing warmth and cheer to homes across India. Traditional Indian baked goods are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that can elevate any festive gathering. Here are some delectable recipes that will surely become family favorites!

1. Honey & Date Cake

This rich and moist cake is perfect for celebrating special occasions. Made with wholesome ingredients like dates and honey, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional cakes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a loaf pan.
  2. In a bowl, combine the softened butter and honey until creamy.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  4. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon.
  5. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
  6. Fold in the chopped dates and walnuts.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

2. Coconut Macaroons

These sweet and chewy coconut macaroons are a popular holiday treat. They are simple to make and are sure to please everyone.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded dried coconut
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 egg whites
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, beat egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form.
  4. Gently fold the coconut mixture into the whipped egg whites until just combined.
  5. Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
  7. Allow to cool before serving.

3. Spiced Nankhatai

Nankhatai are traditional Indian shortbread cookies that are perfect for sharing during the holidays. The addition of spices gives these cookies a unique taste.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup semolina
  • 1/2 cup ghee
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • Chopped pistachios or almonds for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. Cream ghee and powdered sugar in a bowl until light and fluffy.
  3. Add semolina, flour, cardamom powder, and baking powder, mixing until a dough forms.
  4. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly.
  5. Place them on the baking tray and garnish with chopped nuts.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden