Veg

Milk Barfi (Mawa Barfi)

Name: Milk Barfi (Mawa Barfi)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups (300g) Khoya/Mawa (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup (200g) Sugar (granulated); 1/4 cup (60ml) Milk; 1/2 teaspoon Cardamom Powder; 1 tablespoon Ghee (for greasing the pan); Slivered Pistachios or Almonds for garnish (optional)

By Recipe Heaven Kitchen17 Mar 20260

Prep15 min

Cook30 min

Servings16

DifficultyEasy

Savor the rich, creamy, and delightful taste of Milk Barfi, a classic Indian sweet that's incredibly easy to make at home. Made primarily from milk solids (khoya or mawa) and sugar, flavored with cardamom, this traditional fudge-like confection is a staple for festive gatherings, puja ceremonies, and special occasions. Our recipe provides a straightforward method to achieve perfectly set, melt-in-your-mouth Barfi that's far superior to store-bought versions.

Ingredients

2 cups (300g) Khoya/Mawa (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup (200g) Sugar (granulated)
1/4 cup (60ml) Milk
1/2 teaspoon Cardamom Powder
1 tablespoon Ghee (for greasing the pan)
Slivered Pistachios or Almonds for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1
1. **Prepare the Pan:** Grease an 8x8 inch square tray or plate with ghee. Line with parchment paper if desired, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Keep aside.
2
2. **Cook Khoya and Milk:** Grate or crumble the khoya/mawa into a heavy-bottomed non-stick pan. Add the milk. Cook on low-medium heat, stirring continuously, until the khoya softens and blends with the milk, forming a smooth, paste-like consistency. This takes about 5-7 minutes.
3
3. **Add Sugar:** Add the granulated sugar to the khoya mixture. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring constantly. The sugar will melt and make the mixture liquidy initially, but as you keep stirring, it will start to thicken again. This stage is crucial for the texture of the barfi.
4
4. **Cook to Setting Consistency:** Continue cooking and stirring for about 15-20 minutes until the mixture leaves the sides of the pan and comes together as a thick mass. When you take a small portion and try to roll it between your fingers, it should form a soft ball (this is the setting stage). Be careful not to overcook, or the barfi will become hard.
5
5. **Add Cardamom & Set:** Turn off the heat and stir in the cardamom powder. Immediately transfer the hot mixture to the prepared ghee-greased tray. Spread it evenly using a spatula or the back of a greased spoon. Press down firmly to make it smooth and compact.
6
6. **Garnish & Cool:** Garnish with slivered pistachios or almonds, gently pressing them into the barfi. Let the barfi set at room temperature for at least 2-3 hours, or until completely cool and firm. You can also refrigerate it for faster setting.
7
7. **Cut & Serve:** Once completely set, gently lift the barfi from the tray using the parchment paper overhang (if used) or carefully cut it into squares or diamond shapes with a sharp knife. Serve and enjoy!

Frequently asked questions

Why did my Barfi turn oily?▾

Barfi can become oily if it's overcooked. When khoya is cooked for too long, the fat separates. Make sure to stop cooking as soon as the mixture starts leaving the sides of the pan and forms a soft ball.

How to make Barfi without readymade khoya?▾

You can make khoya at home by reducing full-fat milk on low heat until it thickens into milk solids. Alternatively, use milk powder: mix 1 cup milk powder with 1/4 cup milk and 2 tablespoons ghee to form a crumbled khoya-like mixture, then proceed with the recipe.

My Barfi didn't set, what went wrong?▾

If Barfi doesn't set, it means the mixture was not cooked enough to reach the setting consistency. You can transfer it back to the pan and cook for a few more minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens and leaves the sides.

How long can Milk Barfi be stored?▾

Milk Barfi can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. If refrigerated, it lasts for up to 7-10 days. Ensure it's covered well to prevent drying out.

Can I add different flavors to Milk Barfi?▾

Absolutely! You can customize Milk Barfi with various flavors. Add a few drops of rose essence or kewra essence along with cardamom powder. You can also mix in some cocoa powder for chocolate barfi, or desiccated coconut for a coconut flavor.