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Bajre Laddu Recipe (Traditional Pearl Millet Laddu)

Bajra Laddu is a wholesome traditional Indian sweet made from pearl millet flour, jaggery, and desi ghee. Deeply rooted in rural kitchens, this laddu is valued not just for its rustic taste but also for its incredible nutritional profile. Bajra (pearl millet) is a climate-resilient grain packed with iron, fiber, and essential minerals, making these laddus especially popular during winters. Slow roasting, earthy aromas, and the warmth of ghee come together to create a laddu that is comforting, nourishing, and naturally energizing. Whether prepared for festivals, post-partum care, or daily nutrition, Bajra Laddu is a timeless recipe that balances health and taste beautifully.

What is Bajra Laddu?

Bajra Laddu is a desi sweet prepared by roasting bajra flour in ghee until aromatic, then binding it with melted jaggery and nuts. Unlike refined sweets, it uses whole-grain goodness and unrefined sweeteners, making it a healthier alternative to sugar-heavy desserts. The texture is slightly grainy, the flavor nutty, and the sweetness gentle—perfect for those who prefer traditional, less sugary sweets.

Ingredients

Bajra (pearl millet) flour – 2 cups
Desi ghee – ¾ cup
Jaggery (grated or powdered) – 1 to 1¼ cups (to taste)
Cashews (chopped) – ¼ cup
Almonds (chopped) – ¼ cup
Edible gum (gond, optional) – 2 tablespoons
Cardamom powder – 1 teaspoon
Dry coconut (grated, optional) – ¼ cup
Warm milk or ghee – 2–3 tablespoons (if needed)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Sieve the bajra flour to remove lumps. Chop nuts finely. If using gond, lightly crush it so it fries evenly.

Step 2: Fry Gond (Optional but Traditional)

Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a heavy pan. Add gond and fry on low heat until it puffs up and turns crisp. Remove, cool slightly, and crush into a coarse powder. Set aside.

Step 3: Roast the Bajra Flour

In the same pan, add the remaining ghee. Lower the flame and add bajra flour gradually. Roast on low heat for 18–22 minutes, stirring continuously. The flour should turn aromatic and slightly darker, releasing a nutty smell. This slow roasting is crucial—do not rush it.

Step 4: Add Nuts and Coconut

Add chopped cashews, almonds, and dry coconut (if using). Roast for another 2–3 minutes until everything is well combined and fragrant.

Step 5: Sweeten with Jaggery

Switch off the heat and let the mixture cool for 2–3 minutes. Add grated jaggery and cardamom powder. Mix thoroughly. The residual heat will melt the jaggery without burning it, ensuring a smooth bind and deep flavor.

Step 6: Shape the Laddus

While the mixture is still warm, take small portions and press firmly to shape round laddus. If the mixture feels dry, add 1–2 teaspoons of warm ghee or milk to help bind.

Step 7: Cool and Set

Place the laddus on a plate and allow them to cool completely. Once set, they firm up and develop their characteristic texture.

Tips for Perfect Bajra Laddu

Always roast bajra flour on low heat to avoid bitterness
Do not add jaggery while the mixture is very hot
Use desi ghee for authentic aroma and better binding
Adjust jaggery based on sweetness preference
Press laddus firmly while shaping to avoid crumbling

Health Benefits of Bajra Laddu

Rich in iron & magnesium: Supports hemoglobin levels
High fiber: Aids digestion and gut health
Naturally gluten-free: Suitable for gluten-sensitive diets
Winter superfood: Provides warmth and sustained energy
Refined-sugar free: Jaggery offers minerals and slow energy release

Variations You Can Try

Bajra Laddu with Dates: Replace jaggery with date paste
Vegan Bajra Laddu: Use coconut oil instead of ghee
Protein Boost Laddu: Add roasted peanuts or seeds
Post-partum Laddu: Increase gond and ghee quantity

Serving Suggestions

Serve Bajra Laddu with warm milk, as a mid-morning snack, or after meals as a healthy dessert. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift during festivals like Makar Sankranti and Diwali.

Storage Instructions

Store laddus in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 10–12 days in winter. For longer shelf life, refrigerate for up to 3 weeks. Always use dry hands while handling.

Why Bajra Laddu is Making a Comeback

With growing awareness around millets and sustainable eating, Bajra Laddu has re-emerged as a smart, traditional superfood. It aligns perfectly with modern health goals while preserving the wisdom of Indian kitchens.

Conclusion

Bajra Laddu is more than just a sweet—it is nourishment shaped into tradition. Easy to prepare, deeply satisfying, and packed with nutrients, this laddu deserves a place in every kitchen. Try this authentic recipe and enjoy the warmth, flavor, and goodness of pearl millet in every bite.

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