Gujarati Sweet Shrikhanda with Saffron and Cardamom
A luscious, chilled yogurt dessert infused with saffron and cardamom, sweetened to delicate perfection. This indian-inspired desserts ready in about 10 minutes layers hung yogurt (thick strained yogurt), powdered sugar, strands saffron strands into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 2 cups hung yogurt (thick strained yogurt)
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 10 strands saffron strands
- 2 tbsp warm milk
- 1/2 tsp green cardamom powder
- 2 tbsp chopped pistachios
- 2 tbsp chopped almonds
- 1 tsp rose water
Instructions
- Step 1: Soak 10 saffron strands in 2 tbsp warm milk for 15 minutes to release color and aroma.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk 2 cups hung yogurt with 3/4 cup powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Stir in the saffron-infused milk, 1/2 tsp green cardamom powder, and 1 tsp rose water, mixing thoroughly to combine flavors.
- Step 4: Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set and develop coolness.
- Step 5: Before serving, garnish with 2 tbsp chopped pistachios and 2 tbsp chopped almonds for a crunchy contrast.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Gujarati Sweet Shrikhanda with Saffron and Cardamom take to make?
Total time is about 10 minutes (10 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.
How do I store leftover Gujarati Sweet Shrikhanda with Saffron and Cardamom?
Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.
Can I substitute ingredients in Gujarati Sweet Shrikhanda with Saffron and Cardamom?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Gujarati Sweet Shrikhanda with Saffron and Cardamom for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Gujarati Sweet Shrikhanda with Saffron and Cardamom?
Indian desserts like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.