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Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love, and what better way to show affection than through the sweet, rich flavors of Indian desserts?
From the deep-fried indulgence of Gulab Jamun to the creamy goodness of Kheer, Indian sweets are the perfect way to treat your loved ones on this special occasion.
With a perfect blend of cardamom, saffron, rose water, and ghee, these traditional treats not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also evoke the essence of warmth and romance.
Indian sweets are known for their rich flavors and diverse textures, making them ideal for sharing with that special someone.
Whether you’re looking to impress your partner with a homemade creation or want to surprise your friends with a thoughtful gesture, our list of 30+ Valentine’s Day Indian sweet recipes will inspire you to get into the kitchen and create something unforgettable.
These recipes range from simple, no-bake delights to elaborate indulgences that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Get ready to infuse your Valentine’s Day with love, sweetness, and unforgettable flavors.
30+ Delicious Valentine’s Day Indian Sweet Recipes to Make Extra Special
Valentine’s Day is all about creating beautiful moments with the people who matter most, and what better way to do that than with a selection of heartwarming, delicious Indian sweets?
These 30+ recipes are perfect for adding a sweet touch to your celebration, whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a fun gathering with friends and family.
From the simplest milk-based treats to complex, rich desserts, these sweets are sure to delight and satisfy.
Each recipe is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of India, filled with vibrant flavors and aromas that speak of love and joy.
So, this Valentine’s Day, take the time to whip up one (or more!) of these mouthwatering desserts.
Let the love and sweetness flow through your kitchen, creating memories that will last long after the last bite.
Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun is a popular Indian sweet made of deep-fried dough balls soaked in sugar syrup. This dish has a rich, sweet flavor and is often served during festivals and special occasions, making it perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day treat. The delicate, spongy texture of these golden dumplings absorbs the syrup, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup milk (as needed)
- Ghee or oil for deep frying
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2-3 cardamom pods, crushed
- A few saffron strands (optional)
Method:
- In a bowl, combine milk powder, flour, and baking soda.
- Add ghee and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Gradually add milk to form a smooth, soft dough. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
- Let the dough rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare the sugar syrup by boiling water and sugar together, adding crushed cardamom and saffron. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes and then set aside.
- Heat ghee or oil in a pan for deep frying. While the oil heats up, divide the dough into small balls. Roll them gently, making sure there are no cracks.
- Fry the dough balls on low heat until they are golden brown, ensuring they cook through.
- Once fried, drop the Gulab Jamuns into the warm sugar syrup and let them soak for 15-20 minutes.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
The softness of Gulab Jamun, combined with the aromatic sweetness of the syrup, makes it a timeless dessert. Its rich texture and flavor offer a comforting and romantic experience, perfect for sharing with a loved one on Valentine’s Day. The cardamom and saffron add a special, fragrant touch, making this dish truly unforgettable.
Rasgulla
Rasgulla, a classic Bengali dessert, is light, spongy, and syrupy. Made from chhena (fresh paneer) and sugar syrup, Rasgullas are adored for their delicate sweetness and chewy texture. This treat is ideal for a sweet celebration on Valentine’s Day, as it represents love and sweetness in its most subtle yet irresistible form.
Ingredients:
- 1 liter full-fat milk
- 1/4 cup lemon juice or vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder (optional)
Method:
- Bring the milk to a boil in a heavy pan, then reduce the heat and slowly add lemon juice or vinegar to curdle the milk.
- Once curdled, remove from heat and strain the mixture through a cheesecloth to separate the chhena (paneer).
- Knead the chhena for 10-15 minutes until smooth and free from lumps.
- Shape the dough into small, round balls, ensuring they are smooth and crack-free.
- In a separate pan, bring water and sugar to a boil. Once the sugar dissolves, add the Rasgullas to the syrup and cook on medium heat for 15-20 minutes, ensuring the balls double in size.
- Optionally, add cardamom powder for extra flavor.
- Let the Rasgullas soak in the syrup for 30 minutes before serving.
Rasgullas have a light and airy texture that is both comforting and delightful. The sweetness of the syrup, paired with the delicate chhena, creates a perfect balance of flavors. Serving Rasgullas on Valentine’s Day not only offers a traditional touch but also symbolizes the love and purity of a relationship, making it a perfect way to celebrate.
Gajar Halwa (Carrot Halwa)
Gajar Halwa, also known as “Gajar ka Halwa,” is a beloved Indian sweet made from grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee. This warm, aromatic dessert is comforting and sweet, offering a heartwarming end to a Valentine’s Day dinner. The tender carrots cooked with milk create a rich, flavorful dish that’s both indulgent and healthy.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups grated carrots
- 2 cups full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, or pistachios)
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
Method:
- Heat ghee in a pan and sauté the grated carrots for 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Add milk to the pan and cook the mixture on medium heat, stirring occasionally until the milk is absorbed and the carrots are tender.
- Once the milk is absorbed, add sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron (if using). Stir well and cook until the mixture thickens and the gajar halwa reaches a pudding-like consistency.
- Garnish with chopped nuts and serve hot.
Gajar Halwa is a decadent, rich dessert with the goodness of carrots, offering both sweetness and a touch of earthiness. The addition of cardamom and saffron enhances its aroma, making it even more special for a romantic occasion like Valentine’s Day. This dessert is not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the senses, as it creates a cozy, festive atmosphere perfect for sharing with a loved one.
Barfi (Milk Fudge)
Barfi is a popular Indian sweet, known for its dense, fudgy texture and rich flavor. Made from condensed milk and sugar, it’s often flavored with cardamom or saffron, and garnished with nuts. Its sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes it an excellent choice for Valentine’s Day, offering a special and indulgent treat for your loved one.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups full-fat milk powder
- 1 cup condensed milk
- 1/2 cup full-fat milk
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- A handful of chopped pistachios or almonds for garnish
Method:
- Heat ghee in a non-stick pan and add milk and condensed milk. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once the mixture comes to a boil, add the milk powder and sugar. Stir constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook on medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and begins to come away from the sides of the pan.
- Add cardamom powder and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased tray and spread it out evenly. Let it cool for 30 minutes.
- Once set, cut into square or diamond-shaped pieces and garnish with chopped nuts.
Barfi is a wonderfully rich dessert that offers a soft, melt-in-the-mouth experience with every bite. The subtle sweetness and aromatic flavor of cardamom elevate this dish, making it a perfect choice for a romantic celebration like Valentine’s Day. The garnished nuts add a crunchy contrast, balancing the smooth texture of the fudge, making it a delightful treat to enjoy with someone special.
Peda (Indian Milk Fudge)
Peda, also known as “Milk Peda,” is a traditional Indian sweet made with condensed milk, sugar, and cardamom. Its richness and smooth texture make it a delectable choice for any festive occasion, including Valentine’s Day. Often garnished with slivers of pistachios or almonds, Peda is a comforting and indulgent treat that will make your celebration even more special.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups full-fat milk powder
- 1/2 cup condensed milk
- 1/4 cup full-fat milk
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Chopped pistachios or almonds for garnish
Method:
- Heat ghee in a non-stick pan and add milk and condensed milk. Stir to combine and bring it to a boil.
- Add milk powder and cook on low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan.
- Add sugar and cardamom powder and continue stirring until the mixture reaches a fudge-like consistency.
- Once the mixture thickens and begins to come together, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Grease your hands with ghee, then shape the mixture into small round pedas. Garnish each peda with chopped pistachios or almonds.
Peda is a rich, indulgent sweet with a smooth and creamy texture. The fragrant cardamom and the crunch of pistachios add an extra layer of complexity, making this dessert perfect for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day. Each bite of Peda is a melt-in-your-mouth experience, leaving a lasting impression of love and warmth.
Kheer (Rice Pudding)
Kheer, also known as Indian rice pudding, is a beloved dessert made with rice, milk, and sugar. Flavored with cardamom, saffron, and garnished with nuts, Kheer is creamy, aromatic, and comforting. It’s a fantastic dessert to serve on Valentine’s Day, offering a warm, satisfying treat that will make your celebration even more memorable.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup basmati rice
- 4 cups full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- A few saffron strands (optional)
- Chopped almonds, cashews, or pistachios for garnish
Method:
- Wash the rice thoroughly and drain it.
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice and simmer on low heat.
- Stir occasionally and cook the rice until it softens and the milk thickens.
- Add sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron. Mix well and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the kheer reaches a creamy consistency.
- Remove from heat and let it cool to your desired temperature.
- Garnish with chopped nuts and serve.
Kheer is a warm, creamy dessert that offers both comfort and indulgence. Its sweet and aromatic flavor, with hints of cardamom and saffron, makes it a delightful treat to share on Valentine’s Day. The nuts add a crunchy contrast to the creamy pudding, creating a perfect balance of textures. Kheer is an ideal choice for a cozy, intimate dessert that’s sure to delight your loved one.
Jalebi
Jalebi is a popular Indian sweet known for its crispy, syrup-soaked, spiraled design. It’s golden, crunchy on the outside, and juicy on the inside, making it a delightful treat for any occasion, especially for Valentine’s Day. The sweet syrup, infused with saffron and cardamom, adds a fragrant sweetness, making this dish a perfect symbol of love and joy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp rice flour
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- A pinch of saffron threads
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup water (for syrup)
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Ghee or oil for frying
Method:
- In a bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, rice flour, and baking soda. Add yogurt and warm water to make a smooth batter. Let it rest for 2-3 hours.
- For the syrup, combine sugar and water in a pan, add saffron and cardamom powder, and bring it to a boil. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until it reaches a slightly sticky consistency.
- Heat ghee or oil in a pan for deep frying.
- Pour the batter into a piping bag or squeeze bottle and carefully pipe the batter into the hot oil in a spiral shape.
- Fry until golden and crispy, then dip immediately in the warm sugar syrup.
- Let the jalebis soak in the syrup for a few seconds before serving.
Jalebi’s crispy texture and sweet syrup make it a memorable dessert for special occasions like Valentine’s Day. Its vibrant color and intricate design also add to its appeal. The saffron and cardamom in the syrup offer an aromatic touch, enhancing its overall flavor. Sharing this indulgent treat is a perfect way to celebrate love, as it is both delicious and symbolic of the sweetness and joy that love brings.
Mysore Pak
Mysore Pak is a rich, fudgy sweet from South India, made from ghee, sugar, and gram flour. Its melt-in-your-mouth texture and aromatic ghee flavor make it a luxurious treat for Valentine’s Day. This dessert, known for its richness, is a perfect way to show love and affection with something that’s as indulgent as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup gram flour (besan)
- 1 1/2 cups ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
Method:
- In a pan, heat ghee and add the gram flour. Roast the flour on low heat for about 4-5 minutes until it turns aromatic and slightly golden.
- In a separate pan, combine sugar and water, and heat to make a syrup. Stir continuously until the syrup reaches one-thread consistency.
- Gradually add the syrup to the roasted gram flour while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to leave the sides of the pan.
- Pour the mixture onto a greased plate and smooth it out.
- Allow it to cool, then cut it into squares or diamond shapes.
Mysore Pak is a rich and indulgent sweet with a melt-in-the-mouth texture. The warm, nutty flavor of ghee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the syrup, creating a luxurious dessert that’s perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day. This simple yet decadent sweet is a wonderful treat to share, symbolizing both richness and love.
Ladoo (Boondi Ladoo)
Ladoo is a beloved Indian sweet, with the Boondi Ladoo being one of the most famous variations. Made from fried gram flour balls, sugar syrup, and cardamom, it’s often garnished with slivers of almonds or pistachios. The soft and chewy texture, along with the sweet syrup, makes it an excellent choice for a special treat on Valentine’s Day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup besan (gram flour)
- 1/4 cup water (for batter)
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup water (for syrup)
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- A handful of cashews and almonds for garnishing
- A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
Method:
- Prepare the syrup by heating sugar and water in a pan until the sugar dissolves. Add cardamom powder and saffron (if using) and let the syrup simmer until it reaches a sticky consistency.
- In a bowl, combine besan and water to form a smooth batter. Heat ghee in a pan for deep frying.
- Using a perforated spoon, drop small droplets of the batter into the hot ghee to form tiny boondi (fried gram flour balls).
- Once fried, remove the boondi from the ghee and immediately dip them into the sugar syrup. Let them soak for a few minutes.
- Shape the syrup-soaked boondi into small round ladoos and garnish with cashews or almonds.
Boondi Ladoo is a delightful dessert with a soft, chewy texture and a fragrant sweetness. The cardamom and saffron infuse the ladoos with an aromatic flavor, making them a perfect dessert for Valentine’s Day. Sharing this sweet treat symbolizes the joy and sweetness of love, and the bite-sized shape makes them easy to enjoy together, adding to the charm of the occasion.
Gulab Jamun
Gulab Jamun is one of the most beloved Indian sweets, made from deep-fried dough balls soaked in sugary rose-scented syrup. Its rich, soft texture combined with the fragrant syrup makes it a favorite for all celebrations, especially Valentine’s Day. The syrup is infused with cardamom and rose water, giving it an aromatic sweetness that perfectly complements the deep-fried dough.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk powder
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/4 cup milk (or as needed)
- Ghee or oil for frying
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 tsp rose water (optional)
- 1/4 tsp saffron strands (optional)
Method:
- In a mixing bowl, combine milk powder, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cardamom powder. Add ghee and mix well.
- Gradually add milk to form a soft dough. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Shape the dough into small balls, ensuring there are no cracks.
- Heat ghee or oil in a pan and fry the balls on low heat, turning them gently to ensure even cooking. Fry until golden brown and drain on paper towels.
- For the syrup, combine sugar and water in a pan, bring to a boil, and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Add rose water and saffron strands, if using.
- Immerse the fried gulab jamuns in the warm syrup for 30 minutes before serving.
Gulab Jamun’s soft and syrup-soaked texture is nothing short of indulgent. The light fragrance of rose water and cardamom adds an aromatic touch to this classic dessert. This dessert is a fantastic choice for Valentine’s Day, as it provides a comforting, indulgent treat that can be shared with a loved one.
Rasgulla
Rasgulla, a spongy and juicy Bengali sweet, is made from chhena (Indian cheese) and soaked in a light sugar syrup. These little white balls absorb the syrup, making each bite refreshingly sweet and soft. Its subtle sweetness and delicate texture make it an ideal treat to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your loved one.
Ingredients:
- 1 liter full-fat milk
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
Method:
- Boil the milk in a pan. Once it starts boiling, add lemon juice or vinegar to curdle the milk. Stir until the curds separate from the whey.
- Drain the curdled milk through a cheesecloth or muslin cloth, rinse under cold water, and squeeze out excess water.
- Knead the chhena into a smooth dough for about 10-15 minutes. Divide into small portions and roll them into smooth balls.
- Prepare the syrup by boiling sugar and water together. Add cardamom powder for flavor.
- Drop the chhena balls into the simmering syrup and cook for 10-15 minutes. The balls will expand and become spongy.
- Let them cool in the syrup before serving.
Rasgulla is a light, sweet dessert that melts in your mouth, offering a burst of sugary syrup with every bite. Its soft, spongy texture and light sweetness make it a refreshing treat for Valentine’s Day. This dessert is perfect for sharing as it is light, aromatic, and the ideal symbol of the sweetness of love.
Kaju Katli (Cashew Fudge)
Kaju Katli, or cashew fudge, is a rich, diamond-shaped Indian sweet made from cashew nuts, sugar, and ghee. Its smooth texture and sweet, nutty flavor make it a luxurious treat for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day. This treat has a subtle sweetness that is balanced with the natural richness of cashews, making it a favorite for many.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cashews
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp water
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 1 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
- Edible silver foil for garnish (optional)
Method:
- Grind cashews into a fine powder using a food processor. Be careful not to turn them into paste.
- In a pan, combine sugar and water, and heat until the sugar dissolves to form a syrup.
- Add the cashew powder to the syrup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and starts to come away from the sides of the pan.
- Add cardamom powder and ghee, mixing well. Continue to cook until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly. Once it’s cool enough to handle, roll it into a flat disc.
- Cut the disc into diamond-shaped pieces and garnish with edible silver foil, if desired.
Kaju Katli is a decadent dessert that combines the richness of cashews with the sweetness of sugar syrup. The addition of cardamom gives it a delicate flavor, and the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes it a perfect Valentine’s Day sweet. The silver foil adds a touch of elegance, making this treat as beautiful as it is delicious. Sharing Kaju Katli symbolizes the richness of love, offering a truly indulgent experience.
Peda (Milk Peda)
Peda is a traditional Indian sweet made with condensed milk, sugar, and cardamom, often garnished with nuts like pistachios or almonds. Its creamy texture and rich taste make it an ideal dessert to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The slow cooking of milk results in a dense, melt-in-your-mouth treat that perfectly captures the essence of indulgence and love.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups full-fat milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup milk powder
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
- A handful of chopped pistachios and almonds for garnishing
Method:
- In a pan, heat the milk and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until it thickens slightly.
- Add sugar and milk powder to the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook on low heat until the mixture thickens to a fudgy consistency.
- Add ghee and cardamom powder, and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Once the mixture starts to come away from the sides of the pan, remove it from the heat.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased plate and shape it into small pedas (round or flat discs).
- Garnish with chopped pistachios and almonds.
Peda’s creamy texture and delicate sweetness, complemented by the aromatic cardamom, make it a delightful treat. This dessert symbolizes richness and warmth, making it the perfect dessert to share on Valentine’s Day. The addition of pistachios and almonds not only enhances the flavor but also adds a festive touch to the treat. It’s a wonderful way to express love with something as rich and comforting as Peda.
Kheer (Rice Pudding)
Kheer, a traditional Indian rice pudding made with rice, milk, sugar, and flavored with cardamom, is a delightful and comforting dessert. Its creamy texture and aromatic sweetness make it a perfect dessert for Valentine’s Day. The rich flavors of milk and cardamom, along with the soft texture of rice, create a satisfying treat that speaks of indulgence and affection.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup basmati rice
- 4 cups full-fat milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- A handful of chopped almonds and pistachios for garnish
- A few strands of saffron (optional)
Method:
- Wash and soak the rice in water for 15 minutes. Drain the water before cooking.
- In a large pan, bring the milk to a boil. Add the soaked rice and reduce the heat to simmer.
- Cook the rice in the milk, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom, until the rice becomes soft and the mixture thickens.
- Add sugar, cardamom powder, and saffron (if using) and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the kheer cool down slightly.
- Garnish with chopped almonds and pistachios before serving.
Kheer is a rich, creamy, and aromatic dessert that provides a luxurious experience with every bite. The delicate flavor of cardamom, along with the richness of milk and rice, makes it the perfect indulgence for Valentine’s Day. Its comforting nature and smooth texture make it a dessert that symbolizes the warmth and tenderness of love. Sharing kheer is a beautiful way to express affection, making it a great choice for a romantic celebration.
Gajar ka Halwa (Carrot Halwa)
Gajar ka Halwa is a popular Indian dessert made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee, cooked until it becomes a soft, fragrant halwa. The sweetness of carrots, the richness of ghee, and the aromatic flavors of cardamom and nuts make this a perfect Valentine’s Day treat. Its bright orange color and comforting texture symbolize warmth and love.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups grated carrots
- 4 cups full-fat milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 2 tbsp ghee (clarified butter)
- A handful of chopped almonds and cashews for garnish
Method:
- In a pan, heat ghee and add the grated carrots. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Add the milk and cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the milk reduces and thickens.
- Once the milk is absorbed, add sugar and cardamom powder. Stir well and cook for another 10 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and creamy.
- Garnish with chopped almonds and cashews and cook for another minute or two.
- Remove from heat and serve warm or at room temperature.
Gajar ka Halwa is a rich, creamy dessert that balances the natural sweetness of carrots with the richness of milk and ghee. The nuts add a delightful crunch, and the aromatic cardamom elevates the flavor. This dessert is a perfect choice for Valentine’s Day as it is both comforting and indulgent. Sharing a bowl of Gajar ka Halwa represents warmth, care, and love—making it a wonderful way to celebrate the special occasion.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!