Kaju Katli, also known as Kaju Barfi, is one of India’s most beloved traditional sweets, especially during festivals and celebrations. This decadent dessert made from cashews and sugar has a rich history rooted in Mughal-era kitchens, where royal chefs crafted luxurious treats for the emperors. Over time, it became a staple in Indian households during Diwali, weddings, and other joyous occasions, symbolizing prosperity and happiness. Its soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture and subtle sweetness make it a crowd favorite that appeals to all generations.
The origin of Kaju Katli is often linked to the Mughal influence on Indian cuisine, where nuts and dry fruits were commonly used in royal desserts. Cashews, being an exotic ingredient at the time, added an element of opulence to this sweet. Today, it is easily accessible and continues to be cherished for its elegance and simplicity. The popularity of Kaju Katli has transcended borders, making it one of the most recognized Indian sweets globally. From traditional sweet shops to gourmet dessert counters, its presence signifies celebration and indulgence.
What makes Kaju Katli truly special is its delicate balance of flavors and textures. Unlike overly rich sweets, this treat is light, refined, and subtly aromatic, thanks to the addition of cardamom or rose water. Its diamond-shaped pieces wrapped in edible silver leaf (varak) make it visually appealing and perfect for gifting. Whether you make it at home or buy it from a store, Kaju Katli is synonymous with love and festivity, spreading joy with every bite.
In modern times, Kaju Katli has also evolved to cater to health-conscious individuals, with sugar-free and vegan versions gaining popularity. However, the traditional recipe remains timeless, reminding us of India’s rich culinary heritage. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can recreate this iconic sweet in your own kitchen and impress your family and friends during special occasions.
Kaju Katli Ingredients
Serves: 8–10 pieces
- Cashew nuts – 1 cup
- Sugar – ½ cup
- Water – ¼ cup
- Ghee – 1 tsp (for greasing)
- Cardamom powder – ¼ tsp
- Edible silver leaf (optional) – 2 sheets
Steps
- Grind the cashew nuts into a fine powder using a blender. Be careful not to over-grind, as it can release oil and turn pasty.
- In a non-stick pan, combine sugar and water. Heat on medium flame to make a sugar syrup of one-string consistency.
- Once the syrup is ready, add the powdered cashews and stir continuously on low flame to avoid lumps.
- Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and starts leaving the sides of the pan. Add cardamom powder and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture onto a greased plate or parchment paper. Allow it to cool slightly, then knead it gently into a smooth dough.
- Roll the dough evenly using a greased rolling pin until it reaches about ¼-inch thickness.
- Apply edible silver leaf for a festive touch, then cut into diamond shapes using a sharp knife.
- Let the pieces cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
Health Benefits
Kaju Katli, when eaten in moderation, offers some nutritional benefits. Cashews are a good source of healthy fats, plant-based protein, magnesium, and antioxidants that support heart health and boost energy levels. However, due to the sugar content, it should be enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a daily indulgence. The richness of this sweet makes it satisfying in small portions, making it perfect for festive times without overindulgence.
Kitchen Tip: Always grind cashews in short pulses to prevent them from releasing oil and turning into cashew butter.