Kaju Katli Recipe
Kaju Katli, also known as Kaju Barfi, is one of India’s most cherished and iconic sweets. Thin, diamond-shaped, and melt-in-the-mouth delicious, Kaju Katli is a festive favorite, especially during Diwali, Raksha Bandhan, and weddings. Made from just a handful of ingredients, this rich delicacy has a luxurious taste and texture that’s hard to resist.
What is Kaju Katli?
“Kaju” means cashew and “Katli” translates to thin slices. This traditional mithai is essentially a smooth cashew fudge, sweetened with sugar and sometimes flavored with rose water or cardamom. It’s often topped with a delicate layer of edible silver leaf (varak), adding a touch of elegance.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cashew nuts
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup water
- ½ tsp rose water or a pinch of cardamom powder (optional)
- Ghee, for greasing
How to Make Kaju Katli
1. Prep the Cashews
Grind the cashews into a fine powder using a blender or food processor. Make sure to pulse and not over-blend to avoid releasing oils.
2. Make the Sugar Syrup
In a non-stick pan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium flame until the sugar dissolves and forms a one-string consistency syrup.
3. Mix in Cashew Powder
Add the cashew powder to the sugar syrup, stirring continuously. Cook on low heat until the mixture thickens and starts leaving the sides of the pan. This should take around 7–10 minutes.
4. Flavor and Cool
Add rose water or cardamom powder if using. Once the mixture forms a soft dough, transfer it to a greased surface or parchment paper.
5. Roll and Cut
Knead the dough gently while it’s still warm. Roll it out into a ¼-inch thick sheet. Once cool, cut into diamond-shaped pieces.
Tips for Perfect Kaju Katli
- Use fresh cashews for a smooth texture and better taste.
- Don’t overcook the mixture or it may harden and become crumbly.
- Pulse cashews, don’t grind continuously—this avoids turning them into paste.
- Roll while warm to make it easier to shape.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as part of a festive dessert platter, along with sweets like Ladoo, Soan Papdi, or Gulab Jamun. It also makes for a beautiful edible gift when packed in decorative boxes.
Kaju Katli is a sweet that brings back childhood memories and festive cheer. With its simple ingredients and rich flavor, it’s no wonder it remains a timeless treat in Indian households.