How to make delicious and soft kaju katli at home a completely guide

How to make delicious and soft kaju katli at home a completely guide  

Kaju Katli, also known as Kaju Barfi, is one of the most beloved Indian sweets enjoyed across the country during festivals, weddings, and special occasions. Its smooth, melt-in-the-mouth texture and rich cashew flavor make it an irresistible treat for all ages. Unlike other Indian sweets that require many ingredients and complex steps, Kaju Katli is simple to prepare if you follow the correct method.

In this guide, we will show you exactly how to make this delicious sweet at home with just a few basic ingredients. You will also learn tips and tricks to achieve that perfect, smooth, and shiny finish just like the store-bought ones.

Why is Kaju Katli so popular?

Kaju Katli stands out because it is not overly sweet and has a delicate, nutty taste. It is also gluten-free and can be enjoyed by people who are lactose intolerant if you skip the ghee. The thin diamond-shaped pieces decorated with edible silver leaf (varak) look elegant and make it a popular gift during Diwali, Raksha Bandhan, and other festivals.

Ingredients You Need

To make Kaju Katli at home, you only need a handful of ingredients:

1 cup cashew nuts (unsalted and unroasted)

½ cup sugar

¼ cup water

1 teaspoon ghee (clarified butter), optional

Edible silver leaf (optional)

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare cashew nut powder

First, make sure your cashews are at room temperature and completely dry. If they are slightly moist, you can dry them on a plate for a few hours or lightly warm them in a pan without roasting.

Grind the cashews in a blender or food processor to make a fine powder. Do not over-grind, or they will release oil and turn into a paste. Sift the powder to remove any large pieces and keep it aside.

2. Make sugar syrup

In a non-stick pan or a heavy-bottomed pan, add sugar and water. Heat it on medium flame and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. Continue boiling until it reaches a one-string consistency. This means if you take a drop between your fingers and stretch it, it should form a single thread.

3. Add cashew powder

Lower the flame and slowly add the cashew powder to the sugar syrup while continuously stirring. Make sure there are no lumps. Keep stirring and cooking the mixture until it starts to thicken and leaves the sides of the pan. The mixture should look like soft dough.

4. Check consistency

To check if the mixture is ready, take a small piece and try to roll it into a small ball. If it does not stick to your fingers and holds shape, it is done. Turn off the heat immediately.

5. Knead and roll the dough

Transfer the hot mixture onto a greased plate or a butter paper. Let it cool slightly until it is warm enough to handle. Apply a little ghee on your palms and knead the dough for 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth.

Place the dough on a butter paper or a greased surface, and use a rolling pin to roll it into a thin sheet (about 3-5 mm thick).

6. Cut into pieces

Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the rolled dough into diamond or square-shaped pieces. Decorate with edible silver leaf if you like.

Your homemade Kaju Katli is now ready to enjoy!

Storage Tips

Store Kaju Katli in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for about a week. Avoid refrigerating, as it may become hard and lose its soft texture.

Pro Tips for Perfect Kaju Katli

Always use fresh, good-quality cashew nuts for the best flavor and smooth texture.

Make sure not to over-grind cashews, or you will end up with cashew butter instead of powder.

The sugar syrup consistency is crucial. If it is too thin, the mixture will remain sticky and not set properly. If overcooked, the Katli will turn hard.

Kneading while the dough is warm helps make it smooth and glossy.

Why make Kaju Katli at home?

Store-bought sweets often contain preservatives and added flavors. By making Kaju Katli at home, you can control the ingredients, adjust sweetness as per your preference, and ensure it is free from additives. Plus, homemade sweets always carry a personal touch and love.

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Whether you are making it for Diwali, gifting it to friends and family, or simply enjoying it as a sweet treat after dinner, Kaju Katli is sure to delight everyone.

Try this simple recipe at home and surprise your loved ones with your culinary skills. Once you taste the homemade version, you will never want to buy it from the store again!