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Besan Ladoo

The Chickpea Flour Ladoo is the Indian sweet that most immediately evokes the smell of festive kitchens. Melt-in-the-mouth, soft, and abundant in clarified butter and nuts, this old-time treat is more than a dessert, it is a feeling. Indeed, chickpea flour ladoo remains the star of any festival
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 peoples
Course: Dessert, Healthy
Cuisine: Indian
Method Notes

Method
 

Step-by-Step Recipe: Besan Ladoo
    Roast the Gram Flour
    1. Heat a heavy-bottom pan and add ghee. Once warm, add the gram flour. Roast on low flame for 40 to 50 minutes, stirring continuously. Slowly, the flour will turn brownish-golden and release a nutty aroma—this is the soul of perfect ladoos.
    Flavor with Cardamom
    1. Once roasted, add cardamom powder and mix well. This gives the ladoos their signature fragrance.
    Sweeten the Mixture
    1. Turn off the flame and let the mixture cool slightly (it should be warm, not hot). Add powdered sugar and mix until fully combined.
    Add Crunchy Nuts
    1. Mix in chopped almonds and cashews for that delightful bite in every ladoo.
    Shape the Ladoos
    1. While the mixture is still warm, take small portions and roll them between your palms to form round ladoos. Place them on a plate and let them set.
    Tips for Perfect Besan Ladoo
    1. Low flame roasting is key – If you rush this step, the besan will taste raw.
    2. Don’t add sugar to hot besan – Wait until it cools slightly; otherwise, sugar will melt and make the mixture sticky.
    3. Use fresh ghee – Pure clarified butter enhances flavor and gives ladoos a rich texture.
    4. Customize with nuts – You can add pistachios or raisins along with almonds and cashews.
    Storage & Shelf Life
    1. Store besan ladoos in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. If you live in a hot climate, refrigerate them and bring to room temperature before serving.
    Variations of Besan Ladoo
    1. Chocolate Besan Ladoo – Add 1–2 tbsp cocoa powder while mixing sugar for a chocolate twist.
    2. Coconut Besan Ladoo – Mix desiccated coconut with roasted flour for a tropical flavor.
    3. Jaggery Besan Ladoo – Replace powdered sugar with jaggery powder for a healthier, earthy sweetness.
    4. Dry Fruit Besan Ladoo – Add finely chopped dates, raisins, or figs for extra texture and natural sweetness.
    5. Spiced Besan Ladoo – Include nutmeg, saffron, or mace powder for festive variations.

    Notes

    FAQs About Besan Ladoo

    1. Can I make besan ladoo without ghee?

    Yes! You can use oil or vegan butter, but ghee gives the authentic aroma and richness.

    2. How long do besan ladoos stay fresh?

    They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. In hot climates, refrigerate and bring to room temperature before serving.

    3. Can I make them sugar-free?

    Absolutely! Replace powdered sugar with natural sweeteners like jaggery powder or erythritol for a healthier version.

    4. Can I use other nuts?

    Yes. You can use pistachios, walnuts, or cashews instead of almonds for different flavors and textures.

    5. Can I prepare them in advance?

    Yes, the roasted gram flour mixture can be stored for a few hours. Shape the ladoos just before serving for best texture.

    6. Is besan ladoo good for kids?

    Yes, in moderation. It’s rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a wholesome snack for children.

    Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 1 Ladoo Approx.)

    • Calories: 120–130 kcal
    • Protein: 3 g
    • Carbohydrates: 12 g
    • Fiber: 2 g
    • Healthy Fats: 7 g
    • Iron: 6% DV
    • Calcium: 4% DV
    Vitamin E: 5% DV