15+ Easy Indian Sweets to Make at Home
Indian sweets hold a special place in the hearts of many, celebrated for their rich flavors, diverse textures, and vibrant colors.
From the creamy indulgence of Kheer to the delightful crunch of Ladoo, Indian sweets are synonymous with joy, festivals, and family gatherings.
Whether you’re preparing for a festive occasion or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, homemade Indian sweets can bring warmth and happiness to any table.
In this article, we present 15+ easy Indian sweet recipes that are perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these recipes will allow you to whip up delectable treats that everyone will love.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in the delightful world of Indian desserts!
15+ Easy Indian Sweets to Make at Home
Creating your own Indian sweets at home can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
The 15+ easy Indian sweet recipes featured in this article are not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavors that reflect the rich culinary heritage of India.
Each recipe offers a unique taste and texture, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, these delightful desserts are sure to impress your family and friends.
Dive into the world of Indian sweets, and let the aroma of ghee, cardamom, and sugar fill your kitchen with joy!
Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun is a classic Indian dessert that features soft, deep-fried dough balls soaked in fragrant sugar syrup. Its rich flavor and melt-in-the-mouth texture make it a favorite during festivals and celebrations. This recipe simplifies the process, making it easy to enjoy this indulgent treat at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup khoya (dried milk)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Ghee or oil for frying
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- A few drops of rose water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Add rose water and set aside to cool.
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix khoya, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cardamom powder. Knead gently to form a soft dough. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Shape the Balls: Divide the dough into small portions and roll them into smooth balls, ensuring there are no cracks.
- Fry the Balls: Heat ghee or oil in a deep pan. Once hot, carefully add the balls. Fry on medium heat until they turn golden brown.
- Soak in Syrup: Remove the fried balls and place them directly into the warm sugar syrup. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Gulab Jamun embodies the essence of Indian sweets with its delightful taste and enticing aroma. This simple recipe allows you to recreate this beloved dessert in your kitchen. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and watch it disappear in moments! Perfect for special occasions or just a sweet indulgence after dinner, Gulab Jamun is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Coconut Ladoo
Coconut Ladoo is a simple, yet delectable sweet made from desiccated coconut and condensed milk. These bite-sized treats are not only quick to prepare but also provide a burst of flavor with every bite. Their chewy texture and rich sweetness make them a popular choice during festivals.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups desiccated coconut
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Extra desiccated coconut for rolling
Instructions:
- Mix Ingredients: In a pan, combine desiccated coconut, condensed milk, and cardamom powder. Cook on low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the pan.
- Cool the Mixture: Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly until it’s manageable.
- Shape the Ladoos: Grease your hands and take small portions of the mixture to roll into round balls. Roll each ball in extra desiccated coconut for a nice coating.
- Set and Serve: Allow the ladoos to set for a few minutes before serving.
Coconut Ladoo is a delightful sweet that combines simplicity with rich flavors. This easy recipe is perfect for those who want to prepare something special without spending hours in the kitchen. They make an excellent snack or dessert, adding a tropical twist to any occasion. Enjoy them fresh, or store them in an airtight container for later—though they might not last long!
Kheer (Rice Pudding)
Kheer is a traditional Indian rice pudding made with milk, rice, and sugar, garnished with nuts and aromatic spices. This creamy dessert is often served at celebrations and festivals, offering a comforting taste of home. This recipe simplifies the process while ensuring a rich and satisfying result.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rice (preferably basmati)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, or pistachios)
- A few strands of saffron (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse and Soak Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak for about 30 minutes, then drain.
- Cook Rice in Milk: In a heavy-bottomed pot, bring the milk to a boil. Add the soaked rice and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring frequently until the rice is soft and the mixture thickens.
- Add Sugar and Flavor: Once the rice is cooked, add sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped nuts, and let it cool slightly before serving.
Kheer is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and traditions. This creamy rice pudding is not only easy to make but also deeply satisfying, making it a cherished part of any Indian meal. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, Kheer brings warmth to your table and is perfect for sharing with loved ones. This recipe is a gateway to the world of Indian sweets, inviting you to explore more delightful treats!
Besan Ladoo
Besan Ladoo is a nutritious and delicious sweet made from gram flour (besan), sugar, and ghee. These round balls are not only a festive treat but also a popular choice for everyday snacks. Rich in protein and flavor, this easy recipe captures the essence of traditional Indian sweets while being simple enough for anyone to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups besan (gram flour)
- 1 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Chopped nuts (almonds or cashews) for garnish
Instructions:
- Roast the Besan: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat ghee on low heat. Add besan and roast it, stirring continuously, until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma (about 10-12 minutes).
- Cool the Mixture: Remove the pan from heat and let the roasted besan cool slightly.
- Add Sugar and Flavor: Once the mixture is warm (not hot), add powdered sugar and cardamom powder. Mix well until everything is combined.
- Shape the Ladoos: Grease your hands and take small portions of the mixture to roll into round balls. Garnish with chopped nuts.
- Set and Serve: Allow the ladoos to cool completely before serving.
Besan Ladoo is a delightful treat that showcases the wholesome flavors of gram flour and ghee. This easy recipe is not only perfect for festive occasions but also makes for a healthy snack option throughout the week. With its rich texture and nutty flavor, Besan Ladoo is sure to be a hit with family and friends, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces.
Rawa Kesari
Rawa Kesari is a popular South Indian dessert made from semolina (rava), sugar, and ghee, flavored with cardamom and saffron. Its vibrant yellow color and rich taste make it a festive favorite. This easy recipe simplifies the cooking process while ensuring a luscious dessert that can be prepared in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup semolina (rava)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- A few strands of saffron (optional)
- Chopped nuts (cashews and raisins) for garnish
Instructions:
- Roast the Semolina: In a pan, heat ghee and add semolina. Roast on low heat until it turns light golden brown and fragrant (about 5-7 minutes). Set aside.
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In another pot, boil water and add sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. If using, add saffron strands to the syrup.
- Combine Ingredients: Slowly add the hot sugar syrup to the roasted semolina, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Add Flavor: Stir in cardamom powder and mix well. Add chopped nuts and raisins, and cook for another minute.
- Serve: Remove from heat, let it cool slightly, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Rawa Kesari is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of ghee and the sweetness of sugar with the unique texture of semolina. This easy recipe makes it possible to whip up a delicious treat for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a festive celebration. With its vibrant color and comforting flavors, Rawa Kesari is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone wanting more.
Sooji Halwa (Semolina Pudding)
Sooji Halwa, also known as semolina pudding, is a rich and aromatic Indian sweet made from semolina, sugar, ghee, and flavored with cardamom and nuts. This easy recipe creates a luscious dessert that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous celebrations or as a comforting treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup semolina (sooji)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 2 cups water or milk (or a combination)
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Chopped nuts (almonds, cashews) for garnish
- A few raisins (optional)
Instructions:
- Roast the Semolina: In a pan, heat ghee over low heat. Add semolina and roast it until it turns light golden and fragrant (about 5-7 minutes). Be careful not to burn it.
- Prepare the Liquid: In a separate pot, bring water or milk to a boil.
- Combine Ingredients: Slowly pour the boiling liquid into the roasted semolina, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and the semolina absorbs the liquid.
- Add Sugar and Flavor: Stir in sugar and cardamom powder. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the sugar melts and the halwa is well combined. Add chopped nuts and raisins if desired.
- Serve: Remove from heat, transfer to a serving dish, and enjoy warm.
Sooji Halwa is a comforting and indulgent sweet that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. This quick and easy recipe ensures that you can enjoy a homemade treat with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings. The rich flavors of ghee and cardamom, combined with the delightful texture of semolina, create a dessert that’s hard to resist. Serve it warm, and let its enchanting aroma fill your home with sweetness!
Mysore Pak
Mysore Pak is a rich and decadent Indian sweet made from gram flour, ghee, and sugar. Originating from Mysore, this dessert is known for its melt-in-the-mouth texture and rich flavor. This easy recipe simplifies the traditional process, allowing you to create this delightful treat at home without any hassle.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 1 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- A pinch of cardamom powder
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In a pan, combine sugar and water. Heat on medium flame until the sugar dissolves completely, forming a one-string consistency syrup. Add cardamom powder and mix well.
- Roast the Besan: In another heavy-bottomed pan, heat half of the ghee. Add gram flour and roast on low heat until it turns golden brown and aromatic (about 5-7 minutes).
- Combine and Cook: Pour the sugar syrup into the roasted gram flour, stirring continuously. Gradually add the remaining ghee while stirring until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan (about 10-12 minutes).
- Set and Cool: Grease a plate or tray with ghee and pour the mixture onto it. Flatten it with a spatula and let it cool completely. Cut into squares or diamonds.
- Serve: Enjoy Mysore Pak at room temperature.
Mysore Pak is a delightful indulgence that brings the rich flavors of Indian sweets right to your table. This simple recipe allows you to experience the authentic taste of this traditional dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. Its unique texture and sweet, nutty flavor make it perfect for celebrations or as a special treat for yourself. Serve it during festive occasions, and watch your guests savor every bite!
Paneer Burfi
Paneer Burfi is a popular Indian sweet made from fresh paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and flavored with cardamom and nuts. This delicious treat is not only easy to make but also offers a creamy texture and rich taste that everyone will love. It’s a great way to use leftover paneer or simply to indulge in a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh paneer (crumbled)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios) for garnish
- A few strands of saffron (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Paneer: In a pan, add crumbled paneer, milk, and sugar. Cook on low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan (about 10-15 minutes).
- Add Flavor: Stir in cardamom powder and saffron (if using). Mix well and cook for another couple of minutes.
- Set the Mixture: Grease a plate or tray with ghee and spread the mixture evenly. Flatten it with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Garnish and Cool: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top and press them gently into the mixture. Allow it to cool completely before cutting into squares or diamonds.
- Serve: Enjoy your Paneer Burfi at room temperature.
Paneer Burfi is a creamy and delicious sweet that highlights the versatility of paneer in Indian desserts. This easy recipe ensures that you can whip up this delightful treat in no time, making it ideal for festive occasions or impromptu celebrations. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, Paneer Burfi is sure to impress your family and friends, leaving them asking for more!
Doodh Peda
Doodh Peda is a delicious Indian sweet made from condensed milk, flavored with cardamom, and garnished with nuts. These small, round treats are soft and creamy, making them a favorite during festivals and special occasions. This easy recipe allows you to create a delightful batch of Doodh Peda with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk powder
- 1/2 cup condensed milk
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Chopped nuts (almonds or pistachios) for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine milk powder, condensed milk, and ghee. Cook on low heat, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cook the Mixture: Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan (about 8-10 minutes). Stir in cardamom powder.
- Shape the Pedas: Once the mixture cools slightly, grease your hands and take small portions to roll into smooth balls or flatten into discs.
- Garnish: Press a chopped nut into the center of each peda for decoration.
- Serve: Allow the pedas to cool completely before serving.
Doodh Peda is a delightful sweet that encapsulates the essence of Indian desserts with its rich flavors and creamy texture. This easy recipe makes it possible to create a batch of these treats quickly, perfect for sharing with loved ones during festivals or special gatherings. Their appealing appearance and satisfying taste will make Doodh Peda a standout addition to any dessert table, bringing joy to those who indulge in them!
Churma Ladoo
Churma Ladoo is a traditional Indian sweet made from coarsely ground wheat flour, ghee, and jaggery or sugar. This delicious treat is often prepared during festivals and special occasions, and its unique texture and flavor make it a beloved favorite. This easy recipe ensures that you can enjoy these nutritious and delightful ladoos at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup wheat flour
- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/2 cup jaggery (grated) or sugar
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Chopped nuts (cashews, almonds) for garnish
Instructions:
- Roast the Wheat Flour: In a pan, heat half of the ghee. Add wheat flour and roast on low heat until it turns golden brown and aromatic (about 10-12 minutes). Let it cool.
- Mix with Jaggery: Once the flour is cool, add jaggery or sugar and cardamom powder. Mix well until combined.
- Form the Ladoos: Gradually add the remaining ghee and mix until the mixture is moist and can hold its shape. Grease your hands and form small round balls (ladoo).
- Garnish: Press a piece of chopped nut into the center of each ladoo for decoration.
- Serve: Enjoy Churma Ladoo at room temperature.
Churma Ladoo is a delightful sweet that offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures. This easy recipe allows you to create nutritious treats that are not only tasty but also evoke a sense of nostalgia. Perfect for celebrations or as an everyday snack, Churma Ladoo is sure to please everyone at your table, bringing warmth and joy to every bite!
Peda with Milk Powder
Milk Powder Peda is a creamy, delicious Indian sweet made from milk powder, sugar, and flavored with cardamom. These soft, bite-sized treats are incredibly easy to prepare and are perfect for festivals and special occasions. This quick recipe allows you to enjoy the delightful taste of Peda in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk powder
- 1/2 cup condensed milk
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Chopped nuts (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Mixture: In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine milk powder, condensed milk, and ghee. Cook on low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan (about 8-10 minutes).
- Add Flavor: Stir in cardamom powder and mix well. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Shape the Pedas: Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, grease your hands and take small portions to roll into smooth balls or flatten into discs.
- Garnish: Press a chopped nut into the center of each peda for decoration.
- Serve: Allow the pedas to cool completely before serving.
Milk Powder Peda is a simple yet delicious sweet that is sure to impress everyone. This easy recipe makes it possible to enjoy a homemade version of this traditional treat in just a short time. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, Milk Powder Peda is perfect for festivals, celebrations, or just a sweet indulgence at any time of the day.
Kalakand
Kalakand is a popular Indian sweet made from fresh paneer and sugar, flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts. Known for its rich taste and grainy texture, this delightful dessert is often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions. This easy recipe allows you to recreate the authentic taste of Kalakand at home without much fuss.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh paneer (crumbled)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios) for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Paneer: In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine crumbled paneer, milk, and sugar. Cook on low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and begins to leave the sides of the pan (about 10-15 minutes).
- Add Flavor: Stir in cardamom powder and mix well. Cook for another minute or two.
- Set the Mixture: Grease a plate or tray with ghee and spread the mixture evenly. Flatten it with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top and press them gently into the mixture. Allow it to cool completely before cutting into squares or diamonds.
- Serve: Enjoy your Kalakand at room temperature.
Kalakand is a delightful and indulgent sweet that captures the essence of Indian desserts. This easy recipe allows you to create a batch of this delicious treat with minimal effort, making it perfect for special occasions or as a sweet surprise for your family. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, Kalakand is sure to be a hit at any gathering, leaving everyone satisfied and happy!
Rava Kesaribath
Rava Kesaribath is a flavorful and aromatic South Indian sweet made from semolina, sugar, and saffron. This easy recipe results in a rich and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for celebrations and festivals. The bright yellow color from saffron and the delightful aroma make it a favorite among sweet lovers.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup semolina (rava)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 2 cups water
- A few strands of saffron (soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm milk)
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Chopped nuts (cashews, almonds) for garnish
- Raisins (optional)
Instructions:
- Roast the Semolina: In a pan, heat ghee and add semolina. Roast on low heat until it turns light golden and aromatic (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In the same pan, bring water to a boil. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Combine Ingredients: Slowly add the boiling sugar syrup to the roasted semolina, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and the semolina absorbs the liquid.
- Add Flavor: Stir in saffron milk and cardamom powder. Mix well and cook for another minute. Add chopped nuts and raisins if desired.
- Serve: Remove from heat, let it cool slightly, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Rava Kesaribath is a delightful sweet that combines the nutty flavor of semolina with the exotic touch of saffron. This easy recipe allows you to create a comforting dessert that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Perfect for festive occasions or as a special treat for your family, Rava Kesaribath is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction with every bite!
Puran Poli
Puran Poli is a traditional Indian flatbread stuffed with a sweet lentil filling. This delicious sweet is particularly popular during festivals and celebrations in Maharashtra and other states. This easy recipe guides you through making the soft dough and the sweet filling, resulting in a delightful treat everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup split yellow gram (chana dal)
- 1 cup jaggery (grated) or sugar
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water (as needed)
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- Ghee or oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Cook the Lentils: Boil the chana dal in water until soft. Drain excess water and mash the lentils.
- Prepare the Filling: In a pan, combine the mashed lentils, jaggery, cardamom powder, and nutmeg (if using). Cook on low heat until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan. Let it cool.
- Make the Dough: In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, turmeric powder, and salt. Gradually add water to form a soft dough. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Stuff the Flatbreads: Divide the dough and filling into equal portions. Roll out a small portion of dough into a circle, place a portion of the filling in the center, and seal it. Roll it out gently into a flatbread.
- Cook the Puran Poli: Heat a tava or skillet, and cook the flatbread on both sides, applying ghee or oil until golden brown. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
- Serve: Enjoy Puran Poli warm with ghee or milk.
Puran Poli is a delightful sweet that beautifully showcases the combination of flavors and textures. This easy recipe allows you to enjoy this traditional treat that holds a special place in Indian cuisine. Perfect for festive occasions or family gatherings, Puran Poli is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, making it a memorable addition to your dessert table!
Aloo Ki Tikki with Sweet Chutney
Aloo Ki Tikki is a popular Indian street food made from spiced mashed potatoes, often served with sweet chutney. This crispy, savory snack can be transformed into a delightful sweet treat when paired with a sweet chutney. This easy recipe brings together flavors and textures, making it a fun dessert option.
Ingredients:
- For the Tikki:
- 2 cups boiled and mashed potatoes
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/4 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
- Oil for frying
- For the Sweet Chutney:
- 1/2 cup tamarind pulp
- 1/2 cup jaggery (grated) or sugar
- 1/4 tsp cumin powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Water (as needed)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sweet Chutney: In a saucepan, combine tamarind pulp, jaggery or sugar, cumin powder, and salt. Add water to adjust the consistency. Cook until the jaggery dissolves and the mixture thickens. Let it cool.
- Make the Tikki Mixture: In a bowl, mix boiled and mashed potatoes with cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt. Form small patties (tikkis) and coat them with breadcrumbs.
- Fry the Tikkis: Heat oil in a pan. Fry the tikkis until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Plate the crispy tikkis and drizzle with sweet chutney.
Aloo Ki Tikki with Sweet Chutney offers a delightful twist on traditional flavors, combining the savory crunch of the tikkis with the sweetness of the chutney. This easy recipe makes for a fun and satisfying dessert option that can be enjoyed by everyone. Perfect for snack time, parties, or as a unique dessert, Aloo Ki Tikki is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen!