Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, is a time for joy, family gatherings, and delicious sweets! Sharing sweets during this festival symbolizes love and goodwill. Here are three delightful examples of Diwali celebration sweets recipes that you can easily make at home.
Gulab Jamun is a beloved Indian dessert made from milk solids, deep-fried, and soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup. This sweet is a must-have during Diwali celebrations and is sure to impress your guests.
To make Gulab Jamun, start by mixing 1 cup of khoya (milk solids) with 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, a pinch of baking soda, and 1 tablespoon of milk. Knead this mixture into a dough and form small balls. Heat ghee in a pan and deep-fry the balls until they turn golden brown. Meanwhile, prepare a sugar syrup by boiling 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water and a few cardamom pods until it thickens slightly. Once the fried balls cool, soak them in the syrup for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes & Variations: You can add rose water or saffron to the syrup for added flavor. If you’re short on time, ready-made Gulab Jamun mix is also available in stores.
Besan Ladoo is a nutritious and delicious sweet made from gram flour. These delightful round sweets are often prepared during Diwali and are a favorite among many.
To create Besan Ladoo, start by roasting 2 cups of gram flour in a pan over low heat until it turns golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! In a separate pan, melt 1/2 cup of ghee and add the roasted flour, stirring continuously. Next, mix in 1 cup of powdered sugar and some cardamom powder for flavor. Once the mixture cools slightly, shape it into small balls. You can roll them in chopped nuts or desiccated coconut for an extra touch.
Notes & Variations: For a twist, try adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the mixture for chocolate-flavored Ladoos. You can also use jaggery instead of sugar for a healthier option.
Kaju Katli is a rich and elegant sweet made from cashew nuts and sugar. Its diamond shape makes it an attractive addition to any Diwali platter.
To make Kaju Katli, soak 2 cups of cashews in water for 2-3 hours, then drain and blend them into a smooth paste. In a non-stick pan, combine 1 cup of sugar with 1/2 cup of water and bring it to a boil until it reaches a one-string consistency. Add the cashew paste and cook, stirring continuously until it thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan. Spread the mixture onto a greased plate, flatten it, and let it cool. Once set, cut it into diamond shapes.
Notes & Variations: You can add a hint of cardamom powder for flavor, or top the Kaju Katli with edible silver or gold leaf for a festive touch. For a nut-free version, try using sunflower seeds instead of cashews.
These examples of Diwali celebration sweets recipes are guaranteed to bring sweetness to your festivities. Enjoy making and sharing these treats with your loved ones!