How to Make Indian Sweet Breads and Pastries

Indian sweet breads and pastries are a delightful treat that combines a variety of flavors and textures. These scrumptious delicacies are often enjoyed during festivals, celebrations, or simply as a sweet indulgence. In this article, we will explore how to make some traditional Indian sweet breads and pastries, offering recipes and tips that will ensure your creations are a success.

1. Gulab Jamun Bread

This unique recipe merges the popular Indian dessert Gulab Jamun with bread, resulting in a soft and sweet treat.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or butter
  • 1/2 cup prepared Gulab Jamun (small-sized)

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
  2. Add the ghee or butter to the dry ingredients, mixing until crumbly.
  3. Gradually stir in milk to form a soft dough.
  4. Roll out the dough into small circles and place a Gulab Jamun in the center of each.
  5. Seal the edges and shape into small round balls.
  6. Place the balls on a baking tray and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Serve warm, drizzled with sugar syrup or honey.

2. Coconut Macaroons

These macaroons are chewy and packed with the rich flavor of coconut. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup condensed milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the shredded coconut, sugar, condensed milk, vanilla extract, and cardamom powder until well combined.
  3. Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
  5. Let them cool before serving.

3. Shahi Tukra (Royal Bread Pudding)

Shahi Tukra is an exquisite dessert that features fried bread soaked in sweetened milk. It's a true indulgence!

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices of bread (white or brown)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup cream
  • 2 tablespoons ghee
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands
  • Chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios) for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Trim the edges of the bread slices and cut them into quarters.
  2. Heat ghee in a pan and fry the bread pieces until golden brown. Set aside on paper towels to drain.
  3. In another pan, boil milk and add sugar, stirring until dissolved.
  4. Add cream and saffron strands to the milk. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. In a serving dish, layer the fried bread pieces and pour the sweetened milk over them.
  6. Garnish with chopped nuts and serve warm or chilled.

4. Puran Poli

Puran Poli is a popular Maharashtrian dessert made from a thin flatbread stuffed with a sweet lentil filling.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup chana dal (split chickpeas)