Kaju Katli Recipe: How to Make at Home

Kaju Katli Recipe: How to Make at Home

– Kaju Katli Recipe –

🕔 6 to 8 minutes Reading  #1731 Words

 

Kaju Katli is a famous Indian sweet that's easy to make in 65 minutes. Perfect for festivals or a quick homemade treat!

Kaju Katli, also called Kaju Katri, is a popular Indian sweet that represents luxury and celebration. Made from finely ground cashew nuts and sweetened with sugar, this tasty treat has a smooth texture and a rich, nutty flavour. It is often topped with a thin layer of edible silver leaf, making it look beautiful as well as delicious. Kaju Katli is a favourite during festivals like Diwali, weddings, and other happy events, symbolising wealth and good luck. Whether served as a festive gift or enjoyed as a special snack, Kaju Katli is loved all over India for its melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Table of Content:

  • Historical and Cultural Significance.
    •
  • Pro Tips.
    •
  • Choosing ingredients.
  • Recipe Card.
    •
  • Step by Step - How to Make Kaju Katli.
    •
  • Variations Of Kaju Katli.
    •
  • Nutritional Facts.
    •
  • FAQ’s.
    •

    1. Historical and Cultural Significance

    a. Origins: 

    The exact origins of Kaju Katli are unclear, but it is believed to have been a part of Indian culinary traditions for centuries. The use of nuts in sweets has been prevalent in India due to their availability and nutritional value.

    b. Festive Celebrations: 

    Kaju Katli is a quintessential sweet during festivals like Diwali, Raksha Bandhan, and Holi. Its presence signifies prosperity and joy. It is also a popular choice for gifting during these times, symbolising good wishes and happiness.

    c. A Royal Treat: 

    Historically, Kaju Katli was considered a royal dessert, often prepared for kings and nobles due to the expensive nature of its ingredients, especially cashews and silver leaf.

    d. Symbolism and Cultural Importance:

    The richness of cashews and the shimmering leaf symbolises wealth and good luck, making Kaju Katli a favoured sweet during auspicious events and celebrations.The smooth texture and rich taste of Kaju Katli make it a delightful treat, bringing people together to share joy and festivity.

     

    Kaju Katli is more than just a dessert; it is a symbol of celebration, luxury, and cultural heritage in India. Its exquisite taste and elegant appearance make it a timeless favourite, enjoyed by people of all ages during special occasions and festivities.

    2. Pro Tips

    To achieve the perfect Kaju Katli:

    Preparing the Cashew Powder:
    • Dry Cashews Thoroughly: Ensure the cashews are completely dry before grinding.
    • Grinding in Batches: Grind in small batches to avoid overheating and achieve a fine, even powder.
      Making the Sugar Syrup:
      • One-Thread Consistency: When you take a drop of syrup between your fingers, it should form a single, thin thread.
      • Uniform Heating: Stir the syrup continuously and maintain even heat to avoid crystallisation.
        Cooking the Cashew Mixture:
        • Low Heat: Cook the mixture on low to medium heat to prevent burning.
        • Constant Stirring: Stir constantly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
        • Check the Right Consistency: When the mixture starts to leave the sides of the pan and forms a dough, it's ready.
          Shaping the Kaju Katli:
          • Work Quickly: Roll the mixture while it’s still warm. It hardens as it cools.
          • Use Parchment Paper: Roll the mixture between two sheets of parchment paper to avoid sticking.
          • Grease the Rolling Pin: Lightly grease with ghee.
            Cutting and Storing:
            • Mark Before Cutting: Score lightly with a knife before cutting to ensure even pieces.
            • Cool Completely: Let the Kaju Katli cool before storing to maintain shape.
            • Store Properly: Store in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last up to a week.

              3. Choosing Ingredients

              The quality of ingredients is crucial in creating the perfect Kaju Katli. Here’s a guide to selecting the best ingredients:

              Cashews (Kaju):
              • Choose whole, raw cashews that are fresh and unblemished. The quality of cashews directly impacts the texture and flavour.
              • Ensure the cashews are fresh. Stale or rancid cashews will ruin the taste.
              • For a smooth texture, cashews should be finely ground into a paste. Avoid over-grinding, as it can release oils and form a paste.
                Sugar:
                • Use fine granulated white sugar. It dissolves easily and ensures a smooth sugar syrup.
                • Check that the sugar is pure and free from impurities.
                  Water:
                  • Use clean, filtered water for making the sugar syrup. The purity of the water affects the quality of the syrup and the Kaju Katli.
                    Ghee (Clarified Butter):
                    • Use high-quality, pure desi ghee. Ghee adds a subtle richness and helps in binding the mixture.
                    • Opt for ghee with a mild, pleasant aroma.
                      Optional Ingredients:
                      • A pinch of freshly ground cardamom powder adds a fragrant twist.
                      • Saffron: A few strands of saffron can add a luxurious flavour and hint of colour.
                      • A few drops of rose water add a subtle floral aroma.
                      • Edible Silver Leaf (Varak) is used to decorate the Kaju Katli and give it a festive, elegant look. Ensure you use high-quality, food-grade silver leaf.

                        4. Recipe Card

                        Ingredients

                        Quantity

                        Cashews (Kaju)

                        2 cups

                        Sugar

                        1 cup

                        Water

                        ½ cup

                        Cardamom Powder (optional)

                        ½ tsp

                        Ghee (for greasing)

                        1 tsp

                        Edible Silver Leaf (Varak, optional)

                        For decoration

                        Time Required:

                        • Preparation Time : 25 minutes
                        • Cook Time: 40 minutes
                        • Total Time: 65 minute
                        • Serving Time: 15 min

                        5. Step by Step - How to Make Kaju Katli 

                        Prepare Cashew Paste:
                        1. Gather your ingredients.
                        2. Dry the cashews thoroughly if needed.
                        3. Grind cashews in small batches to a fine powder using short pulses. Sift the powder to remove any larger pieces.
                        Make Sugar Syrup:
                        1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of water.
                        2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely and the syrup reaches a one-thread consistency.
                        Cook Cashew Mixture:
                        1. Lower the heat and gradually add the cashew paste to the sugar syrup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
                        2. Add the cardamom powder if using. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan (about 10-15 minutes).
                        Form Dough:
                        1. Once the mixture forms a dough-like consistency, remove it from heat.
                        2. Transfer the mixture onto greased parchment paper. Allow it to cool slightly until it is warm enough to handle.
                        Roll and Cut:
                        1. Grease your hands with ghee and knead the mixture briefly to make it smooth.
                        2. Place another parchment paper on top and roll the mixture to about 1/4-inch thickness using a greased rolling pin.
                        3. Remove the top parchment paper and let the rolled mixture cool completely.
                        Shape Kaju Katli:
                        1. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the rolled mixture into diamond shapes.
                        2. If desired, decorate each piece with edible silver leaf (varak) for a traditional touch.
                        Store and Serve:
                        1. Store the Kaju Katli in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about a week.
                        2. Serve these delightful sweets during festivals, celebrations, or as a special treat.

                        Best Kaju Katli Recipe

                        ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

                        5 from 15 reviews

                        ⏱️ Total Time : 65 Minutes

                        Kaju Katli Recipe: Loaded with Cashew and Pure Ghee with a detailed recipe for making this traditional Indian sweet at home!

                        Ingredients:

                        • Cashews (Kaju)
                        • Sugar
                        • Water
                        • Cardamom Powder (optional)
                        • Ghee (for greasing)
                        • Edible Silver Leaf (Varak, optional)

                        Instructions:

                      • Dry roast the cashews in a pan over low heat until they turn slightly golden. Allow them to cool completely.
                        •
                      • Grind the roasted cashews into a fine powder using a food processor or grinder. If needed, add a teaspoon of ghee to help in grinding.
                        •
                      • In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine sugar and water.
                        •
                      • Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
                        •
                      • Stir the sugar syrup occasionally and allow it to come to a boil.
                        •
                      • To check for the correct consistency, drop a small amount of syrup into a bowl of cold water. It should form a soft ball when pressed between your fingers.
                        •
                      • Once the sugar syrup reaches the soft ball stage, reduce the heat to low.
                        •
                      • Gradually add the cashew powder into the sugar syrup while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
                        •
                      • Keep stirring the mixture on low heat until it thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
                        •
                      • To ensure the mixture is ready, take a small portion in your hand and roll it into a ball.    It should hold its shape and not stick to your hands.
                        •
                      • Once the mixture reaches the right consistency, transfer it to a greased plate or parchment paper.
                        •
                      • Allow it to cool slightly until you can handle it comfortably.
                        •
                      • Grease your hands with a little ghee and knead the mixture gently to make it smooth.
                        •
                      • Place another piece of parchment paper over the mixture and roll it out evenly to your desired thickness (typically about 1/4 inch thick).
                        •
                      • If desired, garnish the rolled out mixture with edible silver leaf (Varak) by gently pressing it onto the surface.
                        •
                      • Alternatively, you can decorate with finely chopped pistachios or almonds for a traditional touch.
                        •

                         

                        ⏱️ Preparation : 25 minutes ⏱️ Cook: 40 minutes  ⏱️Serving: 15 min

                        6. Variations Of Kaju Katli.

                        Kaju Katli isn’t just limited to the traditional recipe! Many online sweet stores offer exciting variations of this classic sweet to cater to different palates. Here are some popular varieties you can find:

                      • Classic Kaju Katli: The timeless version, made with just cashew nuts and sugar. This is the purest form of Kaju Katli, known for its smooth texture and subtle sweetness.
                      • Saffron Kaju Katli: Infused with strands of fragrant saffron, this version adds a luxurious twist to the traditional sweet, giving it a beautiful golden hue and a delicate flavour.
                      • Chocolate Kaju Katli: A modern take on the traditional recipe, chocolate Kaju Katli combines the richness of cashews with a decadent layer of chocolate. Perfect for those who want something new.
                      • Rose Kaju Katli: Rose-flavoured Kaju Katli is aromatic and has a floral undertone that adds a unique taste to the classic sweet, often made for festive occasions or weddings.
                      • Anjeer Kaju Katli: A delightful fusion of figs (anjeer) and cashews, this variety adds a natural sweetness and chewy texture to the traditional Kaju Katli. A perfect choice for those who love the rich taste of dried fruits with a nutty twist.
                      • Gud Kaju Katli: Sweetened with jaggery (gud) instead of refined sugar, this healthier version of Kaju Katli offers a rich, caramel-like flavour. Ideal for those looking for a more natural and earthy sweetness in their sweets.
                      • Gold kaju Katli: An indulgent treat adorned with a fine layer of edible gold leaf, elevating the elegance of the classic Kaju Katli. A luxurious choice for gifting or celebrating special occasions in a royal style.
                      • Sugar Free Kaju Katli: A guilt-free delight for health-conscious sweet lovers, this sugar-free Kaju Katli retains all the rich flavours of cashews without added sugar. Perfect for diabetics or those looking to reduce sugar intake without compromising taste.

                        • 7. Nutritional Facts:

                        Calories per 100 gms : Approx  687.88 kcal

                        Energy 

                        687.88 kcal

                        Protein

                        10.2 g

                        Carbohydrate

                        59.47 g

                        Fat

                        22 g

                        Sugar

                        50 g

                        8. FAQ’s

                      • How do you store Kaju Katli?
                        •

                        Store Kaju Katli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate it, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

                      • Can I make Kaju Katli without a food processor?
                        •

                        Yes, use a blender or grinder to powder the cashews. Pulse in intervals to avoid turning the cashews into a paste.

                      • How do I know when the sugar syrup is ready?
                        •

                        The sugar syrup should reach a one-thread consistency. When you pull a drop of syrup between your thumb and index finger, it should form a single thread.

                      • Why is my Kaju Katli mixture sticky?
                        •

                        The mixture may be sticky if the sugar syrup consistency is incorrect or if it hasn't been cooked long enough. Continue cooking until it forms a dough-like consistency.

                      • Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?
                        •

                        You can use almonds to make Badam Katli. The method remains the same, though the taste and texture will vary.

                      • How many calories are in a piece of Kaju Katli?
                        •

                        Kaju Katli(100 grams) contains approx 687.88 kcal or calories.

                      • How many days does Kaju Katli stay fresh?
                        •

                        Kaju Katli stays fresh for about 10 to 15 days when stored in an airtight container.

                         

                        Back to blog

                        Leave a comment