The Ultimate List of Indian Baked Goods and Recipes

The world of Indian baked goods is as diverse as its culture, offering an array of flavors and textures that delight the palate. From sweet treats to savory delights, this ultimate list captures the essence of Indian baking, along with recipes that you can easily follow at home. Let’s explore the delicious array of baked goods that India has to offer!

1. Nankhatai

Nankhatai are Indian shortbread cookies that are a perfect blend of flour, sugar, and ghee. These buttery, crumbly cookies are typically flavored with cardamom and sprinkled with nuts.

Recipe:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup semolina
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup ghee
  • 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • Nuts for garnish
Mix all ingredients, form small balls, flatten slightly, garnish with nuts, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

2. Tea Cake

This simple, delightful cake serves as a perfect accompaniment to your afternoon chai. Featuring a rich flavor, the tea cake is often infused with spices or citrus.

Recipe:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup butter, softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Zest of one lemon (optional)
Cream butter and sugar, add eggs and vanilla, then mix in flour, milk, and baking powder. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes.

3. Shahi Tukda

A royal dessert from Hyderabad, Shahi Tukda consists of bread pieces soaked in a rich milk and sugar syrup, often garnished with nuts.

Recipe:

  • 4 slices of white bread
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup ghee
  • Cardamom and saffron for flavor
  • Nuts for garnish
Fry bread in ghee until golden, simmer milk with sugar and spices, and pour over the fried bread. Garnish and serve warm.

4. Eggless Chocolate Cake

This moist and rich chocolate cake is a favorite for celebrations. The eggless version ensures that everyone can enjoy it, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Recipe:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
Mix dry ingredients, then add wet ingredients. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes.

5. Rajma Galouti Kebab

While not a traditional baked good, these kebabs are often cooked in an oven for a healthier twist. Made with kidney beans and spices, they are soft and flavorful.

Recipe:

  • 1 cup rajma (kidney beans), boiled and mashed
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • Spices such as garam masala and cumin
  • Breadcrumbs for binding
  • Oil for greasing
Mix ingredients, shape into patties, place on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes.

6. Parsi Lagan Nu Custard

This baked custard is a traditional Parsi dessert made with eggs and milk, flavored with spices. It is rich, creamy, and often enjoyed at weddings and festivals.

Recipe:

  • 4 cups milk
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp cardamom powder
  • Almonds and pist