Indian desserts, or sweets, are a staple of any celebration or gathering. Whether it’s Diwali, Holi, or just a regular Sunday evening, there’s nothing like indulging in some sweet treats to satisfy your cravings. And if you’re new to cooking or looking for easy dessert recipes, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering Indian dessert recipes that are perfect for beginners. From classic gulab jamun and shrikhand to innovative twists like microwave besan ladoo and no-bake kaju katli, these desserts are sure to delight your taste buds.
Gulab Jamun with Instant Mix
Gulab Jamun is a popular Indian dessert that’s often made from scratch, but what if you could make it just as delicious using an instant mix? This recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a sweet treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 packet of Gulab Jamun Instant Mix (available at most Indian grocery stores)
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup water
– Ghee or oil for frying
– Rose syrup and chopped pistachios for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant mix with 1 cup of milk to form a smooth dough.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes pliable and easy to shape.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each one into a ball.
4. Heat enough ghee or oil in a deep frying pan to fry the dumplings.
5. Fry the Gulab Jamun balls until they’re golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Remove the fried dumplings from the oil and soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes.
7. Serve the Gulab Jamun hot or at room temperature with rose syrup and chopped pistachios, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Mango Shrikhand
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing and creamy Quick Mango Shrikhand! This Indian-inspired dessert is perfect for hot summer days or as a quick pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt (dahi)
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– A pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the yogurt, mango, honey, cardamom powder, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving bowl.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional mango slices if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking and is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Quick Mango Shrikhand!
Microwave Besan Ladoo
This recipe for Microwave Besan Ladoo is a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth without heating up the kitchen. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up these delicious Indian-style treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the besan, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the ghee or oil and mix until the mixture resembles a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
5. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a ladoo shape.
6. Place the ladoos on a microwave-safe plate, leaving some space between each one.
7. Microwave on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the ladoos are lightly toasted.
8. Remove from the microwave and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-60 seconds
3-Ingredient Coconut Barfi
This no-fuss Coconut Barfi recipe requires just three ingredients and is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a quick dessert to impress friends!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup desiccated coconut
– 1 can (14 oz) condensed milk
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the coconut and condensed milk. Mix well until the coconut is evenly coated.
2. Add the salt and mix until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
No-Bake Kaju Katli
A classic Indian sweet treat that requires no cooking! This simple recipe yields a delicious and creamy Kaju Katli that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cashews (kaju)
– 1/2 cup milk powder
– 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons cardamom powder
– 2 tablespoons rose water (optional)
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Grind the cashews into a fine paste using a blender or food processor.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground cashews, milk powder, and softened ghee or butter. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the cardamom powder and rose water (if using). Mix well to combine.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to set.
5. Once set, remove from the refrigerator and shape into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or diamonds).
6. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is no-bake.
Instant Pot Gajar Halwa
Gajar Halwa is a popular Indian dessert made by cooking carrots with milk, sugar, and spices. This Instant Pot recipe simplifies the process, yielding a creamy and comforting pudding perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the grated carrots, milk, ghee or butter, sugar, cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
4. Open the lid and stir in salt to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruits, if desired.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Rasmalai with Store-Bought Chenna
Easy Rasmalai with Store-Bought Chenna
A classic Indian dessert gets a modern twist! This recipe uses store-bought chenna to simplify the process and make rasmalai preparation a breeze.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup store-bought chenna (paneer)
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon rose water
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Chopped pistachios or almonds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Drain the chenna and crumble it into small pieces.
2. In a pan, combine the milk, sugar, rose water, cardamom powder, and saffron mixture. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the crumbled chenna to the milk mixture and stir gently.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Just before serving, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold into the cooled chenna mixture.
8. Garnish with chopped nuts and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
5-Minute Rabdi with Condensed Milk
Rabdi, a popular Indian dessert, typically requires hours of preparation. But what if you could have it ready in just 5 minutes? This recipe uses condensed milk to speed up the process, resulting in a creamy, sweet, and utterly satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup condensed milk
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream and condensed milk.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and reaches a temperature of 180°F to 190°F (82°C to 88°C).
3. Remove from heat and add sugar (if using). Let it cool for about 30 seconds.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or ramekins.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Air Fryer Jalebi
Experience the classic Indian sweet treat with a twist – crispy air fryer jalebis! These deep-fried treats get a makeover using the air fryer, resulting in a lighter and healthier alternative.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a thick batter.
3. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop small dollops of batter into the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until jalebis are golden brown and crispy.
6. Brush with vegetable oil and dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes per batch
Semolina (Sooji) Halwa in 15 Minutes
Sooji Halwa in 15 Minutes
A classic Indian dessert, Sooji Halwa is a simple and comforting treat made with semolina (sooji) flour, milk, and sugar. This quick recipe yields a creamy and delicious pudding that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina (sooji) flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
– Ghee or unsalted butter, melted (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the semolina flour and 1 cup of milk. Whisk until smooth and free of lumps.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Add the remaining 1 cup of milk, sugar, and cardamom powder (if using). Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Remove from heat and stir in melted ghee or butter (if using).
6. Pour into individual serving cups and serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Eggless Rasgulla with Ready-Made Paneer
Rasgulla is a traditional Bengali sweet dish made from paneer and sugar syrup. This eggless version uses ready-made paneer to simplify the process, making it perfect for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 250g ready-made paneer
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– Cardamom powder or rose syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the paneer into small cubes and soak them in lukewarm water for 30 minutes.
2. Drain the water and squeeze the paneer cubes gently to remove excess moisture.
3. Combine sugar, water, and lemon juice in a deep saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the syrup reaches 1-string consistency.
5. Remove the syrup from heat and add cardamom powder or rose syrup (if using). Let it cool slightly.
6. Add the paneer cubes to the syrup and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
7. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Microwave Badam Phirni
Badam phirni is a popular Indian dessert that’s typically cooked over low heat for hours. But with this microwave recipe, you can enjoy the creamy, nutty goodness in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 cup badam (almonds), blanched and sliced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine milk, sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron mixture.
2. Microwave on high for 30 seconds.
3. Add the sliced almonds and ghee/butter to the milk mixture.
4. Microwave on high for an additional 20-25 seconds, or until the milk is heated through and the almonds are toasted.
5. Remove from microwave and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-55 seconds
Quick Sandesh with Ricotta Cheese
Get ready to delight your taste buds with a creamy and delicious Indian-inspired dessert, perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sandesh (Indian sweet) mix (available at Indian grocery stores)
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter to the ricotta mixture and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the sandesh mix to the ricotta mixture and mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
6. Cook the sandesh for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown on both sides.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve: Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit, if desired. Enjoy your delicious Quick Sandesh with Ricotta Cheese!
No-Cook Mango Phirni
Phirni, a popular Indian dessert, gets a refreshing twist with this no-cook mango version. Perfect for hot summer days, this creamy and sweet treat is ready in just minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup condensed milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup pureed mango (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, condensed milk, sugar, and salt until smooth.
2. Add the pureed mango and cardamom powder; whisk until well combined.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, give the mixture a good stir and garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruits if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This no-cook dessert is ready in just minutes.
Instant Bread Gulab Jamun
Gulab jamun, a popular Indian dessert, is now easier to make with this instant bread recipe. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy the sweet and syrupy goodness of gulab jamun in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm milk
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup gulab jamun syrup (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add lukewarm milk and mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small balls (about 1-inch diameter).
5. Heat ghee or oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Fry the dough balls until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Drain the fried jamuns and soak them in gulab jamun syrup for at least 30 minutes.
8. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including frying time)
Easy Malpua with Pancake Mix
Easy Malpua with Pancake Mix: A Quick and Delicious Treat!
Malpua, a popular Indian dessert, is typically made with flour, sugar, and spices. But who says you can’t simplify the process using pancake mix? This recipe is a game-changer for those looking to whip up a sweet treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pancake mix
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
– Sugar syrup (store-bought or homemade) for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the pancake mix and lukewarm water until smooth.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the batter and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
4. Repeat with the remaining batter.
5. Serve the malpuas warm with sugar syrup drizzled over them.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of malpuas you make)
Microwave Moong Dal Halwa
Moong dal halwa is a popular Indian dessert made with split green gram, ghee, and sugar. This microwave version is a convenient twist on the traditional recipe, requiring minimal effort and time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup moong dal (split green gram)
– 2 tablespoons ghee
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the moong dal and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the water and add the moong dal to a microwave-safe bowl.
3. Add ghee, sugar, cardamom powder, and salt to the bowl. Mix well.
4. Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, stirring every minute, until the mixture is creamy and the sugar has dissolved.
5. Remove from the microwave and let it cool slightly.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruits, if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
3-Ingredient Pista Kulfi
Pista Kulfi is a classic Indian dessert that’s easy to make and utterly delicious. This 3-Ingredient Pista Kulfi recipe uses simple ingredients to create a rich, creamy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/4 cup of chopped pistachios
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Stir in the chopped pistachios.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is chilled, not cooked.
Enjoy your creamy Pista Kulfi!
Quick Sevaiyan Kheer with Vermicelli
Quick Sevaiyan Kheer with Vermicelli: A Rush-Hour Dessert Delight!
This classic Indian dessert is a staple during celebrations and special occasions, but it’s also easy to whip up on a whim. This quick version uses vermicelli noodles to add texture and speed up the cooking process.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vermicelli noodles
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and cardamom powder. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
3. Add the cooked vermicelli noodles to the milk mixture and stir well.
4. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the kheer thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in ghee (if using).
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruit if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Chana Dal Payasam
A classic South Indian dessert, Payasam is a sweet treat made with chana dal (chickpea flour) and flavored with cardamom. This one-pot recipe simplifies the process of making Payasam, requiring minimal effort and attention.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chana dal
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup jaggery powder or brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Chopped nuts or dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chana dal and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the water and add the chana dal to a large pot with 2 cups of fresh water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the dal is cooked and mushy.
4. Add the jaggery powder, cardamom, and ghee or oil to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the Payasam thickens slightly.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
7. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with chopped nuts or dried fruits if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the sweet world of Indian desserts! This article presents 20 easy and delicious recipes perfect for beginners. From classic treats like Gulab Jamun and Barfi to innovative twists like No-Bake Kaju Katli and Instant Pot Gajar Halwa, there’s something for everyone. Most recipes require minimal ingredients and cooking time, making them ideal for busy home cooks. Discover the secrets to creating mouthwatering desserts like Rabdi with Condensed Milk, Air Fryer Jalebi, and more. Perfect for Indian food lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
