Kaju Katli, also known as Kaju Barfi, is one of India’s most loved sweets. Smooth, diamond‑shaped, and melt‑in‑the‑mouth, it’s a must‑have treat during festivals like Diwali, Raksha Bandhan, and weddings. The good news? You can easily make this royal sweet at home with just a few ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Cashews (Kaju) – 2 cups
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Sugar – 1 cup
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Water – ½ cup
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Ghee (clarified butter) – 1 tbsp
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Edible silver leaf (varq) – optional, for garnish
Step‑by‑Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the Cashew Powder
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Dry the cashews with a clean cloth to remove moisture.
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Grind them in a mixer until they turn into a fine powder.
(Tip: Pulse in short bursts to avoid making cashew paste.)
Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup
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In a non‑stick pan, add sugar and water.
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Cook on medium flame until you get a one‑string consistency.
(To check, take a drop between your fingers — it should form a single string.)
Step 3: Mix Cashew Powder with Syrup
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Lower the flame and add the cashew powder to the sugar syrup.
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Stir continuously to avoid lumps.
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Add 1 tbsp ghee and keep mixing until the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
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Transfer the mixture onto a greased plate or parchment paper.
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Let it cool slightly (warm but not hot).
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Grease your hands with ghee and knead into a smooth dough.
Step 5: Roll and Cut
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Place the dough between two butter papers and roll it evenly with a rolling pin.
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Cut into diamond shapes with a sharp knife.
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Decorate with edible silver leaf (varq) for a royal touch.
Serving Suggestion
Serve your homemade Kaju Katli fresh or store it in an airtight container. It stays good for up to 7–10 days without refrigeration.
Final Note
With just cashews, sugar, and a little patience, you can bring home the rich taste of Kaju Katli that rivals the best sweet shops. Next time there’s a festival or special occasion, surprise your loved ones with this homemade delicacy.