New Delhi: India’s festivals are incomplete without sweets, and Diwali is no exception. Every region has its own traditional dessert that adds a special
touch to the celebration, whether you offer desserts to God as part of rituals, relish them with family members and friends or serve them to guests. These sweets not only please the taste buds but also tell stories of local culture and tradition. As the festival of lights approaches on November 8, it’s time to explore beyond the usual laddoos and barfis.
Every sweet, such as the crisp gujiyas of Uttar Pradesh, the rich Mysore Pak of Karnataka, the soft Unniyappam from Kerala or the caramelised Chhena Poda from Odisha, brings a burst of authentic flavour and festive warmth. This Diwali, add something new to your dessert table with these regional delights that are easy to prepare and full of flavour. Dive deeper for more.
Popular Diwali sweets to try this festive season
1. Mysore Pak, Karnataka
A signature sweet from Karnataka, Mysore pak is made with gram flour, ghee, and sugar. With its rich, melt-in-the-mouth texture, it’s a festive favourite in this coastal state.
2. Unniyappam, Kerala
These small, round, deep-fried delights are made with rice flour, jaggery, banana, and coconut. Soft inside and crisp outside, unniyappams are an essential Diwali and Onam treat in Kerala homes.
3. Chhena poda, Odisha
Known as the ‘baked cheese dessert of Odisha,’ chhena poda is made by baking fresh cottage cheese, sugar, and semolina.
4. Narikol’or laru, Assam
This Assamese sweet is made from freshly grated coconut and jaggery, shaped into soft laddoos. Simple yet satisfying, narikol’or laru adds a homely touch to festive celebrations.
5. Chakao kheer, Manipur
A royal Manipuri dessert, chakhao kheer, is prepared with black rice, milk, and sugar. The dish’s deep purple hue and nutty flavour make it a visually striking and wholesome festive sweet.
6. Gujiya, Uttar Pradesh
A kind of sweet fried dumpling made with flour and stuffed with a crumbly sweet filling of coconut, khoya, and nuts is popular in UP and Rajasthan.
7. Mathri, Punjab
A classic Punjabi snack, also popular across North India, marks the beginning of the winter festivities.
8. Mohanthal, Gujarat
Mohanthal is made with gram flour. This favourite sweet is included in all major festivities across Gujarat.
9. Murukku, Tamil Nadu
A crunchy, spiral-shaped, savoury snack from Tamil Nadu, Murukku is made of Urad dal and rice flour and is widely popular in southern India.
Celebrate Diwali 2026 with sweets that connect every corner of India. These regional favourites will not only impress your guests but also make your festive spread truly memorable.
