Diwali, the festival of lights, isn’t complete without a lavish spread of traditional treats! Each year, homes are filled with the delightful aroma of sweets and savoury snacks, as families come together to celebrate. If you're looking to make this Diwali special, why not try your hand at preparing some classic delicacies at home?
5 must-try Diwali treats that will light up your celebrations and satisfy your taste buds
Kaju Katli
No Diwali is complete without indulging in Kaju Katli! This melt-in-your-mouth sweet is made from cashews, sugar, and ghee. Its soft, silky texture and rich nutty flavour make it a favourite for both kids and adults. What’s more, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Blend soaked cashews into a fine paste, cook it with sugar, and let the mixture cool before cutting it into diamond-shaped pieces.
Chakli
Chakli is a crispy, spiral-shaped snack that adds the perfect crunch to your Diwali platter. Made with a mix of rice flour, urad dal, and spices, chakli is deep-fried to golden perfection. It’s a versatile snack that balances the sweetness of festive sweets, and it’s perfect for serving guests or enjoying with a cup of tea. With a few ingredients and a chakli maker, you can make fresh and delicious chaklis right at home.
Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun, with its syrupy goodness, is a true star of Diwali desserts. Soft, spongy dough balls made from khoya (dried milk) are fried and soaked in a sugar syrup infused with cardamom and rose water. The result is a decadent, sweet treat that literally melts in your mouth. Whether served warm or at room temperature, Gulab Jamun is always a crowd-pleaser.
Besan Ladoo
For those who love homemade sweets, Besan Ladoo is an absolute must-try. Made from roasted gram flour (besan), ghee, and powdered sugar, these golden-hued ladoos are flavored with cardamom and sometimes adorned with chopped nuts. The nutty flavor of roasted besan combined with the richness of ghee makes them an irresistible Diwali treat. Plus, these ladoos can be made ahead of time and stored for days!
Shakkarpare
If you’re looking for something that’s both crispy and sweet, Shakkarpare is the perfect Diwali snack. These bite-sized diamond-shaped treats are made from flour, ghee, and sugar. Deep-fried to golden perfection, they offer a delightful crunch with every bite. Shakkarpare can be made in both sweet and savoury variations, making them versatile enough for any occasion.
Bonus Tip: Add Your Personal Touch!
While these are traditional recipes, don’t hesitate to add your own twist to these classic delicacies. Whether it’s a dash of saffron in your Gulab Jamun or a mix of spices in your Chakli, personalizing these recipes will make them even more special for you and your family.