Unleash Your Inner Baker with 10 Indian Sweets You Can Bake at Home! Dive into the joy of baking traditional mithai
For many Indians, the aroma of ghee sizzling in a pan, the subtle fragrance of cardamom,
and the anticipation of a sweet treat are deeply nostalgic. Indian sweets, or mithai, are an integral part of our culture, celebrated during festivals, weddings, and everyday moments of joy.
While buying sweets from the halwai (sweet maker) is convenient, there's a unique satisfaction in creating these delicacies in your own kitchen. Baking, in particular, offers a modern twist to traditional recipes, allowing you to control the ingredients and customize the sweetness to your liking.
It's not just about the end product; it's the entire process – the mixing, the kneading, the patiently waiting for the flavors to meld, and finally, the triumphant moment of tasting your own homemade sweet.
It’s about making memories, creating traditions, and sharing a piece of our heritage with loved ones. So, ditch the store-bought sweets this year and embrace the joy of baking Indian mithai at home! This article unveils 10 easily bakeable Indian sweets that are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Besan Ladoo
These melt-in-your-mouth spheres of goodness are a staple in Indian households, especially during Diwali. Besan, or gram flour, is the star ingredient, lending a nutty and earthy flavor.
Roasting the besan in ghee is crucial; the patience is key to achieving that perfect golden-brown hue and aromatic fragrance. A touch of cardamom powder adds a warm, spicy note, while powdered sugar provides the necessary sweetness.
Baking the besan before forming the ladoos ensures an even, cooked taste and a longer shelf life. Use a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the besan turns fragrant and changes color.
Another recipe can include adding roughly chopped nuts like almonds and cashews, for a delightful crunch. The key to perfect besan ladoos is the consistency of ghee; it should be just enough to bind the ingredients together without making them too greasy.
Once cooled slightly, shape the mixture into small balls and garnish with slivered pistachios.
Coconut Barfi
This sweet is like a slice of tropical paradise. Coconut barfi is simple yet satisfying, perfect for those craving a lightly sweet treat. Desiccated coconut is the main ingredient, combined with condensed milk for a creamy and rich texture.
A pinch of cardamom and a sprinkle of saffron strands elevate the flavor profile. Baking the coconut mixture before setting it ensures that the barfi holds its shape well.
Lay the mixture evenly in a baking tray lined with parchment paper, then bake at 175°C (350°F) for roughly 10 – 15 mintues or until top is golden brown. The best thing about barfi recipes is they can be easily customised.
To that end, you can include chopped nuts, such as almonds, cashews, or pistachios may be added for added crunch and texture. Once set, cut into squares or diamonds and enjoy the sweet taste of coconut.
Shankarpali
These diamond-shaped crispy cookies are a festive favorite, especially popular in Maharashtra during Diwali. Baking a big batch to distribute to family and friends is a common site. Made from maida (all-purpose flour), sugar, ghee, and a hint of cardamom, shankarpali are traditionally deep-fried.
However, baking them offers a healthier alternative without compromising on the taste. Baking the rolled-out dough on a baking sheet until light golden and crisp is the key. Ensure that the shankarpali are evenly spaced on the baking sheet.
They can be enjoyed as is or sprinkled with powdered sugar for added sweetness. Adding poppy seeds to the dough provides a pleasing visual appeal and subtle nutty flavour. Shankarpali are perfect for making ahead of time as they can be stored in an airtight container for several weeks.
Singal
A hidden gem from Uttarakhand, Singal is a sweet, crispy pastry traditionally associated with Kumaoni celebrations. Typically made using a fermented batter of semolina (suji) and curd (dahi), the baking adaptation uses a simplified recipe.
Mix semolina, all-purpose flour, sugar, and melted ghee to form a dough. Shape into small rings, and bake. The addition of cardamom or fennel seeds elevates the flavour. It transforms into the perfect crunchy treat when baked.
The light sweetness and subtle cardamom flavor make it an irresistible snack enjoyed with tea or coffee. Variations can include adding a touch of turmeric for extra color and health benefits.
Nankhatai
Originating from Surat, Gujarat, Nankhatai are melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies that are a classic tea-time treat. Made with maida, besan, and powdered sugar, the addition of ghee gives them a rich, crumbly texture. A touch of cardamom and nutmeg enhances the aroma and flavor.
The key to perfect nankhatai is to chill the dough before baking. This prevents them from spreading too much in the oven. Baking them at a low temperature, until lightly golden around the edges, ensures that they remain soft and crumbly.
A sprinkle of chopped pistachios or almonds before baking adds a decorative touch and a delightful crunch. Nankhatai are best enjoyed warm with a cup of masala chai.
Til Ladoo
These sesame seed balls are a winter delicacy, known for their warming properties and nutty flavor. Til ladoo is usually made by combining roasted sesame seeds with jaggery or sugar syrup. Baking a til ladoo offers a twist to the traditional recipe by creating sesame brittle.
Spread the prepared sheet mixture on a baking sheet. The baking time for til ladoo is short, 10-12 minutes at 175°C (350°F). This method yields a less sweet, crispier version of the traditional ladoo. Add coarsely grounded peanuts and cashews to it.
It is perfect snack that gives energy and warmth in the winter season.
Embrace tradition with homemade Diwali sweets
This Diwali, ditch the store-bought sweets and unleash your inner baker. These ten traditional mithai recipes offer a delightful journey into the heart of Indian culinary heritage. Embrace the joy of baking, create lasting memories, and share the sweetness with your loved ones. Happy baking!
