Must-Try Indian Cookies and Baked Sweets

India boasts a rich heritage of culinary delights, and its cookies and baked sweets are no exception. From traditional recipes passed down through generations to innovative modern variations, these treats are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. Below, we explore some of the most delightful Indian cookies and baked sweets you need to savor.

1. Nankhatai

Nankhatai is a traditional Indian shortbread cookie that originated in Persia. Made with flour, ghee, sugar, and cardamom, these cookies are often garnished with nuts like pistachios or almonds. Their crumbly texture and buttery flavor make them a perfect companion for tea.

2. Besan Ladoo

While not a cookie in the conventional sense, besan ladoos are round sweets made from roasted chickpea flour (besan), ghee, and sugar. These energy-packed treats are often flavored with cardamom and decorated with a cashew or almond on top. They are especially popular during festivals and celebrations.

3. Kaju Katli

Kaju katli, or cashew fudge, is a luxurious Indian sweet made primarily from cashew nuts and sugar. This delicacy is often shaped into diamond pieces and garnished with edible silver leaf. Its rich flavor and smooth texture make it a festive favorite.

4. Coconut Macaroons

These delightful cookies, distinct from their Western counterparts, are made using shredded coconut, egg whites, and sugar, creating a chewy, sweet treat. Often dipped in chocolate, Indian coconut macaroons are a delightful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for any occasion.

5. Chocolate Dhokla Cookies

A modern twist on the traditional dhokla, these cookies combine the savory steamed cake with cocoa and sugar to create a unique sweet treat. They are soft, spongy, and offer a wonderful balance of sweetness and cocoa flavor.

6. Chirote

Chirote is a flaky pastry that is deeply fried and dusted with sugar. Often made during festivals, this delicacy is layered with ghee and is known for its crispness. Enjoying chirote with a cup of chai is an unmissable experience!

7. Peda

Peda is a soft, creamy sweet made from condensed milk and flavored with cardamom. These bite-sized goodies can be made in various flavors like chocolate and mango. Peda is a must-have during celebrations, as it symbolizes sweetness and prosperity.

8. Aam Peda

Aam peda brings a seasonal twist to the traditional sweet. Made with ripe mango pulp, milk, and sugar, these soft treats are especially popular during the summer months when mangoes are abundant. Their fruity essence and creamy texture make them irresistible.

9. Suji Halwa Cookies

This delectable cookie draws inspiration from the traditional suji halwa, a sweet dish made from semolina. Incorporating the same flavors, these cookies are soft and often decorated with slivers of nuts. They're perfect for fancy tea parties or as a delightful snack.

10. Shahi Tukda Biscuits

A fusion of bread pudding and biscuits, these cookies incorporate the royal flavors of shahi tukda, combining bread, milk, sugar, and saffron. Enjoy them with a sprinkling of pistachios and a drizzle of honey for a sweet treat that incorporates the essence of Indian desserts.

Indian cookies and baked sweets are diverse in their flavors and textures, offering a unique tasting experience. Whether you’re at a local bakery or trying your hand at making them at home, these treats are sure to delight. Indulge your sweet cravings with these must-try Indian delicacies!