Diwali Sweets (116 Traditional & Modern Recipes) – Dassana’s Veg Recipes

Glistening diyas, sparkling fairy lights, sweets and snacks that glitter the eyes and soul, and joy all around – this is the Diwali festival in India. Popular under the sobriquet ‘festival of lights,’ Diwali in 2025, falls on October 20. Since the festivities also mean the most delicious Diwali Sweets, both sweet and savory, I am sharing a personal favorite collection of 116 Diwali Sweets here. From ladoos and kheers to halwas and more, this list has a choice of Diwali Sweets that everyone can enjoy during the Diwali festive season.

Significance of Diwali

The most common and celebrated story that is associated with Diwali festival is that of Lord Rama returning to Ayodhya along with his wife Sita and younger brother Lakshman after executing Lanka’s demon king Ravana.

To welcome them, Ayodhyavasis (people of Ayodhya) adorned their homes and streets with clay lamps.

Thus, the lit festivities, of which sweets too are an important part, signify that good is always triumphant over evil. Diwali also symbolizes hope over despair, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance.

This is the reason different types of Diwali Recipes and Diwali Sweets are an absolute must while celebrating the Hindu festival of Diwali.

Diwali festival is usually a 5-day long affair, with each day signifying a particular thing. Here is what each day means:

1. First day: Dhanteras or Dhanvantari Triyodashi; it is believed that on this day the God of medicine, God Dhanvantari, emerged out of the ocean and with him, brought the science of Ayurveda for mankind.
2. Second day: Naraka Chaturdashi or Choti Diwali; according to legends, on this day Lord Krishna, Satyabhama (Krishna’s wife) and Goddess Kali killed the demon Narakasura. Another reason supporting the theory of victory of good over evil.
3. Third day: Lakshmi Puja, Badi Diwali or the actual day; this day is when Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped as it is believed that it is on this day, she descends to Earth to bless everyone with happiness, luck and prosperity.  
4. Fourth day: Govardhan Puja; it is believed that on this day, the people of Vrindavan were asked by Bhagwan Krishna, to offer their prayers to a hill named Giri Govardhan instead of Lord Indra.
5. Fifth day: Bhai Dooj; on this day, the bond between brothers and sisters is celebrated and honored. According to Hindu mythology, Yama, the Lord of Death on visiting his sister Yamuna, gave her a boon. This was whoever visits their sister on this day, shall be freed of all sins and will achieve moksha.  

Diwali Festival – A Sweet Affair

Diwali or Deepavali is truly the festival of lights, festivity and celebration. Since no major festival or any other special occasion is complete without sweets, so is the case with Diwali as well.

Also, because the real essence of Diwali festival lies in the victory of good over evil, sweets are a must to commemorate this success.

Thus, an important element in the festivities. Traditionally too in India, sweets are offered to the deities and made with purity and devotion.

I would suggest that you make sweets or mithai at home (just like olden times) rather than buying from the market.

This way, when you will share it with your family, friends and loves ones, the feeling and excitement will just amplify. For this, my curated list of Diwali Sweets will be at your service.

In many parts of India, it is customary to offer or gift sweets to neighbors as well on Diwali festival.

I specially remember those funny instances while I was growing up, when the mithai box which you had given to your neighbor, used to come back home after moving in a circle!

Since it is all about Diwali Sweets Recipes during this time of the year, it wouldn’t be possible to eat everything. So, people kept passing the sweet boxes further.

Last but not the least, if you’re planning your festive menu this year, do check my Diwali Snacks Recipes for some easy and traditional ideas.

New Diwali Recipe

Chocolate Barfi Recipe – Diwali Special

Chocolate Barfi (also spelled Chocolate Burfi) is an easy Indian sweet made with khoya, cacao powder, and sugar. The recipe needs only a few ingredients and comes together quickly. The burfi has a soft, fudgy texture and deep chocolate flavor. Perfect for festivals, gifting, or whenever you crave a quick homemade mithai.

Diwali Sweets Recipes

While you try the Diwali Sweets from this special list, check out this compilation of 116 Diwali Snacks as well for your savory cravings during Diwali festival.

For more sweets, this category of Indian Sweets Recipes is where you should head to.

Diwali festival is also the perfect time to begin something new or venture into positive deeds. So, donate your old clothes to the less-privileged or make any other kind of donation to help needy people. And what best way to start something novel than with some lovely recipes for sweets.  

Most of the recipes in this Diwali Sweets list are not just easy to make, but also require the least efforts and still are decadent.

You can also prepare Panchamrit, a traditional offering made during puja, as part of your festive menu.

Even if you find something lengthy in the Diwali Sweets collection, just follow the recipes to the T, and make things simpler for yourself. Just for your ease of reading, I have divided this post into 7 parts.

Many ingredients used in these Diwali sweets can be easily made at home. If you prefer making everything from scratch, do check my step-by-step detailed recipes for homemade Ghee, Butter, Paneer, and Chenna.

You can also make your own Rice Flour, Khoya or Mawa, and condensed milk to use in traditional Indian sweets.

Before I sum up, here’s wishing a very Happy and Prosperous Diwali to all our reader friends!

Popular Sweets

Find the most popular Diwali Sweets in this section, from all over India. I have also included some Bengali sweets in this list.

1. Kaju Katli

Kaju Katli is one of the most popular Indian sweets made with cashews and sugar. It has a smooth, melt-in-the-mouth texture and a pleasant nutty flavor. The recipe is simple, yet the result looks elegant and festive. It’s one of those Diwali sweets that fits every celebration.

2. Besan Ke Laddu

Besan Laddu is a classic Indian sweet made with gram flour, ghee, and sugar. The roasted gram flour gives a deep, nutty flavor. You’ll find these laddus in almost every home during Diwali. They’re easy to make and last well for days.

3. Rava Laddu

Rava Laddu or Suji Laddu is made with semolina, ghee, and sugar. These laddus are mildly sweet and have a grainy texture. They are simple to prepare and make a quick sweet for festivals or small gatherings. Add it to your Diwali sweets assortment.

4. Gulab Jamun

Gulab Jamun is a well-known Indian sweet made from khoya or mawa (milk solids), paneer and flour. These are fried and soaked in sugar syrup. It’s soft, spongy, and full of flavor. Serve warm or at room temperature, plain or topped with a few nuts. It’s one of the most loved Diwali sweets during festivals and celebrations.

5. Jalebi

Jalebi is a classic Indian sweet known for its crisp, syrupy spirals. Made with a fermented flour batter and soaked in sugar syrup, it’s both crunchy and juicy in each bite. It can also be made vegan by frying in oil instead of ghee, keeping the same taste and texture.

6. Kala Jamun

Kala Jamun is a darker version of the classic Gulab Jamun. It has a slightly chewy outer layer and a soft, syrupy inside. The flavor is deeper and mildly caramelized, giving it a rich taste that makes it a festive favorite.

7. Mysore Pak

Mysore Pak is a traditional sweet from Karnataka made with gram flour, ghee, and sugar. It has a soft, rich texture and a deep roasted flavor from the besan. Once made in royal kitchens, it’s now a festive favorite across India and often shared during Diwali.

8. Cham Cham

Cham Cham, also called Chomchom, is a popular Bengali sweet made from fresh chenna or paneer. It’s soft, juicy, and mildly sweet. You can serve it plain or garnish it with coconut or nuts. It’s a colorful and much-loved sweet from Bengal’s festive cuisine.

9. Rasgulla

Rasgulla is one of the most loved Bengali sweets made with soft, spongy balls of chhena cooked in light sugar syrup. The texture is soft and delicate, and the flavor is clean and mildly sweet. It’s a classic sweet that fits perfectly in every celebration. Add it to your Diwali sweets menu.

10. Suji Ka Halwa

Suji Ka Halwa is a simple and comforting North Indian sweet made with semolina, ghee, and sugar. The roasted suji gives it a nutty flavor, while cardamom and nuts add warmth. It’s often made for pooja offerings and festive meals.

11. Kalakand

Kalakand is a milk-based sweet made with paneer, condensed milk, and sugar. It has a soft, grainy texture and a gentle sweetness. Lightly flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts, it’s a classic Indian mithai loved during festivals.

12. Malpua

Malpua is a traditional North Indian sweet made from a smooth batter of flour, sugar, and a few spices. The small pancakes are fried until crisp at the edges and soaked in sugar syrup. Soft inside and slightly crisp outside, they are often served during festivals like Holi and Diwali.

13. Rabdi

Rabdi, also called Rabri, is a rich dessert made by slowly simmering whole milk until it thickens and reduces. It has layers of malai and a light caramel flavor. Flavored with cardamom and saffron, it’s served chilled and often paired with sweets like Malpua or Jalebi.

14. Balushahi

Balushahi is a traditional North Indian sweet with a flaky crust and a soft, syrupy center. Made from flour and ghee, it’s deep-fried and dipped in sugar syrup. Its crisp yet tender texture makes it a classic festive sweet.

15. Basundi

Basundi is a creamy milk-based dessert popular in Western India. Made by slowly reducing milk with sugar, cardamom, and saffron, it becomes thick and flavorful. Served chilled and topped with nuts, it’s a festive favorite often enjoyed after meals.

16. Rasmalai

Rasmalai is a soft, creamy Bengali sweet made with chenna or paneer balls or discs soaked in thickened, sweetened milk. The flavor of cardamom and saffron gives it a delicate taste. It’s usually served chilled and makes a rich dessert for festive occasions.

17. Seven Cup Burfi

7 Cup Burfi is a South Indian sweet made with gram flour, coconut, sugar, and ghee. The name comes from the easy ratio of ingredients. It has a soft, fudge-like texture and a mild sweetness that makes it a favorite during festivals.

18. Doodh Peda

Doodh Peda is a simple Indian sweet made with khoya (mawa) and sugar. The mixture is cooked down until thick, then shaped into small rounds. Soft and milky, these pedas are perfect for pujas, celebrations, or gifting during Diwali.

19. Shankarpali

Shankarpali is a crisp and lightly sweet Maharashtrian snack made with flour, sugar, and ghee. These small diamond-shaped bites are fried until golden and crunchy. They’re easy to make and a must-have during Diwali.

20. Shakarpara

Shakarpara, also called Khurma in some regions, is a sweet and crunchy snack made by coating fried flour pieces with sugar syrup. It’s mildly sweet, crisp, and makes a perfect tea-time or festive snack.

21. Nankhatai

Nankhatai is a traditional Indian shortbread cookie made with all-purpose flour, gram flour, ghee, and sugar. It has a crumbly, melt-in-the-mouth texture and a light cardamom flavor. These cookies are simple to make and often baked at home during festivals.

22. Rice Kheer

Rice Kheer is a classic Indian pudding made with rice, milk, and sugar. It’s slow-cooked until creamy and flavored with cardamom, saffron, and nuts. This traditional sweet is made for almost every festival and celebration.

23. Seviyan Kheer

Seviyan Kheer, also known as Vermicelli Kheer, is made by cooking roasted vermicelli in milk with sugar, cardamom, and saffron. It’s quick to make, light, and always comforting. This kheer is often made for special occasions and family gatherings.

24. Shahi Tukda

Shahi Tukda is a rich Mughlai dessert made with ghee-fried bread slices that are soaked in sugar syrup and later layered with thickened milk or Rabdi. It has layers of flavor; crisp bread, creamy milk, and a hint of cardamom. It’s a festive sweet that adds a royal touch to any meal.

25. Sandesh

Sandesh is a soft Bengali sweet made from fresh chhena (paneer) and palm jaggery or sugar. Lightly flavored with cardamom or saffron, it has a clean, milky taste and delicate texture. It’s one of Bengal’s simplest and most loved sweets, made often during Durga Puja and other festivals.

26. Gujiya

Gujiya is a traditional North Indian sweet made with a half moon shaped crispy, flaky pastry filled with a sweet mixture of khoya, raisins, sugar and nuts. Fried until golden and sometimes coated in sugar syrup, it’s a festive favorite, especially for Holi and Diwali.

27. Karanji

Karanji is the Maharashtrian version of Gujiya, filled with coconut, sugar, and cardamom. The pastry is light and crisp, and the filling is sweet and aromatic. It’s made during Diwali and stored for days as a tea-time snack.

28. Boondi Laddu

Boondi Laddu is made from small fried droplets of gram flour batter mixed with sugar syrup and shaped into balls. Flavored with cardamom and a bit of ghee, these laddus are soft, moist, and filled with festive flavor.

29. Motichur Laddu

Motichur Laddu is a finer version of boondi laddu, made with tiny, delicate pearls of gram flour cooked in syrup. It has a soft texture and a rich taste from saffron and ghee. This sweet is a symbol of celebration and is often offered in temples or shared during festivals.

30. Rava Kesari

Rava Kesari is a South Indian sweet made with semolina, ghee, sugar, and flavored with saffron or food-safe orange color. It’s smooth, mildly sweet, and lightly aromatic. Often served at functions and festive meals, it’s simple yet satisfying.

31. Chhena Poda

Chhena Poda is a baked sweet from Odisha made with fresh chhena or paneer, sugar, and rice flour. Its slightly caramelized crust gives it a unique flavor and texture. Soft inside and golden outside, it’s an easy dessert with a lovely homemade taste.

32. Besan Ka Halwa

Besan Ka Halwa, a beloved Indian sweet, transforms gram flour into a rich, aromatic delicacy with ghee, sugar, and fragrant cardamom. Garnished with a sprinkle of nuts and a hint of saffron, this sweet dish is a celebration of simplicity and richness, offering a comforting taste of tradition in every bite.

33. Poornam Boorelu

Poornam Boorelu from Andhra Pradesh are golden, crisp balls filled with a sweet mixture of chana dal, jaggery, spices and coconut. The outer layer is made with a batter of urad dal and rice, giving a soft bite beneath the crisp crust. These sweets are deep-fried until golden and are often prepared during festivals and special occasions.

Ladoo Recipes

This collection includes both popular and regional ladoo recipes. You’ll find variations made with grains, lentils, paneer, nuts, and seeds. Ladoos are an essential part of Diwali Sweets recipes, offering a mix of flavors and textures that suit every festive table.

34. Atta Laddu

Atta Laddu is a simple North Indian sweet made with whole wheat flour, ghee and sugar. The roasted flour gives a warm, nutty flavor, and the ghee adds richness. It’s an easy, homemade sweet that fits perfectly for festivals or as an everyday treat.

35. Nariyal ke Laddu

Nariyal Laddu is made with coconut, condensed milk or sugar. You can make it with either fresh or desiccated coconut. Soft, chewy, and aromatic, these laddus are simple to make and popular in Maharashtrian homes, especially during festivals.

36. Dry Fruits Laddu

Dry Fruit Laddu is made with a mix of dates, figs, raisins, and nuts. It’s naturally sweet and packed with energy. These laddus are a healthy choice for snacking or gifting during festivals. Do add it to your Diwali Sweets collection.

37. Badam Laddu

Badam Laddu is made with ground almonds, jaggery, and cardamom. These laddus have a rich nutty taste and soft texture. They make a wholesome sweet for festive occasions or as a quick energy snack.

38. Ragi Laddu

Ragi Laddu is made with ragi flour, jaggery, ghee, and cardamom. Each laddu is soft, earthy, and full of nutrients. This sweet is simple to make and is good as a nourishing festive snack.

39. Peanut Laddu

Peanut Laddu is made with just peanuts and jaggery. It has a rich, nutty flavor and a crisp, chewy texture. These laddus are quick to make and a good source of protein and natural sweetness.

40. Sattu ke Laddu

Sattu Laddu is a traditional Bihari sweet made with roasted gram flour, ghee, and sugar or jaggery. It has a slightly grainy texture and an earthy flavor. These laddus are nutritious, filling, and make a great snack or breakfast bite.

41. Til ke Laddu

Til Laddu is a winter favorite made with sesame seeds, jaggery, peanuts, and coconut. These laddus are rich, aromatic, and full of warmth. They’re a healthy, traditional sweet often made during Makar Sankranti and Diwali.

42. Moong Dal Laddu

Moong Dal Laddu is made with roasted moong dal flour, ghee, sugar, and cardamom. It has a delicate nutty taste and a melt-in-the-mouth texture. These laddus can be made for festive occasions.

43. Sunnundalu (Urad Dal Laddu)

Sunnundalu is a traditional Andhra sweet made with roasted urad dal flour, ghee, and sugar. The taste is rich and slightly nutty, with a smooth texture. These laddus are both nourishing and festive.

44. Maladu (Maa Laddu)

Maladu, or Maa Laddu, is a South Indian sweet made with roasted chana dal flour, sugar, and ghee. It has a soft, crumbly texture and a mild sweetness. This sweet is simple to make and has a nostalgic, homemade flavor.

45. Narkel Naru

Narkel Naru is a Bengali sweet made with grated coconut and jaggery. It’s soft, aromatic, and full of flavor. These laddus are easy to make and a part of almost every Bengali festive spread.

46. Aval Laddu

Aval Laddu, or Poha Laddu, is made with flattened rice, jaggery, and ghee. It’s light, mildly sweet, and quick to prepare. These laddus are perfect when you want a simple sweet with minimal ingredients.

Kheer & Payasam Recipes

Kheer is one of the easiest Indian desserts that you can make during any festival. What is known as ‘kheer’ in North India, becomes ‘payasam’ in South India. The method of making a payasam slightly differs from that of making kheer.

Usually nuts and dry fruits are fried in ghee and added towards the end once the kheer is cooked through. I have listed both kheer and payasam variations in this Diwali Sweets recipes section.

47. Badam Kheer

Badam Kheer is a creamy dessert made with ground almonds, milk, and sugar. Flavored with saffron and cardamom, it’s rich yet light in taste. This almond kheer can made during festive occasions.

48. Phirni

Phirni is a North Indian sweet made with ground rice slow cooked in milk and flavored with cardamom and saffron. It’s usually served chilled in small earthen bowls. Creamy, soft, and aromatic, it’s a popular dessert and of the favorite Diwali sweets for parties and get togethers.

49. Suji Ki Kheer

Suji Kheer is made with semolina, milk, and sugar. It’s lightly flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts. This easy dessert cooks quickly and makes a comforting sweet for any occasion.

50. Nolen Gurer Payesh

Nolen Gurer Payesh is a Bengali rice pudding flavored with date palm jaggery (nolen gur). The jaggery gives it a deep, caramel-like sweetness and a beautiful aroma. It’s a winter specialty and a much-loved sweet in Bengali homes.

51. Sheer Khurma

Sheer Khurma is a festive vermicelli pudding made with milk, sugar, and dried fruits. It’s rich, creamy, and flavored with cardamom and rose water.

52. Lauki ki Kheer

Lauki Kheer is a simple North Indian dessert made with grated bottle gourd, milk, and sugar. It’s lightly flavored with cardamom and saffron. The texture is creamy and smooth, and it makes a gentle, soothing sweet.

53. Makhane ki Kheer

Makhane Kheer is made with fox nuts simmered in milk and flavored with cardamom and saffron. It’s rich yet light, and makes a lovely festive dessert, often made during fasting days or celebrations.

54. Oats Kheer

Oats Kheer is a light, wholesome version of traditional kheer made with oats, milk, and sugar. It’s mildly sweet, creamy, and perfect for those who prefer a healthy dessert.

55. Ragi Kheer

Ragi Kheer is made with ragi flour, milk, and sugar. It has a nutty flavor and smooth texture. It’s a good source of calcium and iron and works well as a healthy festive sweet.

56. Paal Payasam

Paal Payasam is a South Indian-style rice kheer made with milk, rice, and sugar. It’s slow-cooked until thick and creamy. Simple, fragrant, and satisfying, it’s served during almost every South Indian festival.

57. Semiya Payasam

Semiya Payasam is a classic South Indian vermicelli pudding made with milk, sugar, and cardamom. Garnished with cashews and raisins fried in ghee, it can be served warm or chilled. It’s a staple in many South Indian homes.

58. Aval Payasam

Aval Payasam is a South Indian dessert made with flattened rice, milk, and sugar. Flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts, it’s quick to make and perfect for small celebrations.

59. Paruppu Payasam (Moong Dal Payasam)

Paruppu Payasam is a South Indian dessert made with moong dal, coconut milk, and jaggery. It has a comforting, earthy sweetness and is often made for festive meals and temple offerings. Add this delicacy to your list of Diwali Sweets.

60. Chakka Payasam (Jackfruit Payasam)

Chakka Payasam is a Kerala-style dessert made with ripe jackfruit, coconut milk, and jaggery. It’s fragrant, rich, and full of natural sweetness. Each spoonful carries the tropical flavor of jackfruit and the warmth of traditional Kerala cooking.

Halwa Recipes

Halwa is another sweet dish that is often made during Diwali festival or any other Indian festive occasion. Cereals, lentils, nuts, veggies, fruits; all can be used to make halwas.

Each halwa has its own unique flavor and texture, from soft and smooth to rich and nutty.
They are simple to make and add warmth to festive meals.

Halwa can be enjoyed as a dessert or offered during poojas and celebrations. These Diwali sweets recipes bring together traditional taste in every spoonful.

61. Gajar Ka Halwa

Gajar Ka Halwa is a popular North Indian sweet made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee. The slow cooking brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots and gives a rich flavor. Flavored with cardamom and garnished with nuts, it’s a warm and comforting dessert made during winters and festivals.

62. Beetroot Halwa

Beetroot Halwa is a colorful dessert made with grated beetroot, milk, sugar, and ghee. The earthy sweetness of beetroot blends beautifully with the flavor of cardamom. It’s a simple, wholesome sweet that adds color and variety to festive meals.

63. Apple Halwa

Apple Halwa is made with grated apples cooked in ghee, sugar, and a touch of cinnamon or vanilla. It has a mild sweetness and a soft, pudding-like texture. This halwa is quick to make and adds a fruity twist to traditional Indian sweets.

64. Papaya Halwa

Papaya Halwa is made with semi-ripe papaya, oil, sugar, and cardamom. It’s smooth, mildly sweet, and easy to prepare. The flavor is light and refreshing, making it a good dessert for festive meals.

65. Kashi Halwa (Ash Gourd Halwa)

Kashi Halwa, a Udupi specialty, is made from grated ash gourd cooked with ghee and sugar. The texture is soft and glossy, and the flavor is delicate and mildly caramelized. It’s a traditional South Indian sweet often made for special occasions.

66. Shakarkandi Ka Halwa (Sweet Potato Halwa)

Shakarkandi Ka Halwa is a North Indian dessert made with boiled sweet potatoes, oil, sugar, and cardamom. It’s smooth, rich, and lightly spiced. The natural sweetness of the sweet potato makes it a comforting festive sweet.

67. Pineapple Kesari

Pineapple Kesari is a South Indian dessert made with semolina, ghee, sugar, and pineapple pieces. The fruit adds a fresh flavor to the soft, melt-in-the-mouth kesari. It’s colorful, aromatic, and perfect for festive meals.

68. Badam Halwa

Badam Halwa is a rich South Indian sweet made with almonds, ghee, and sugar. The flavor of roasted almonds and saffron makes it aromatic and indulgent. It’s a classic festive sweet that tastes best when served warm.

69. Banana Sheera

Banana Sheera is a Maharashtrian-style sweet made with semolina, banana, sugar, and ghee. The banana adds natural sweetness and a soft texture. It’s often made for pujas and festive occasions.

70. Moong Dal Halwa

Moong Dal Halwa is a North Indian dessert made with moong dal, ghee, sugar, and cardamom. It’s rich, aromatic, and has a slightly grainy texture. This halwa is a winter favorite and a traditional festive sweet.

71. Kesari Bath

Kesari Bath is a Karnataka-style sweet made with semolina, ghee, sugar, and saffron. The texture is soft and smooth, with a mild flavor of cardamom. It’s often served during special occasions and temple offerings.

72. Ragi Halwa

Ragi Halwa is a healthy dessert made with ragi flour, milk, ghee, and sugar. It has a nutty flavor and a soft, pudding-like texture. This halwa is a good mix of nutrition and taste, perfect for festive or everyday sweets.

73. Karachi Halwa

Karachi Halwa, also known as Bombay Halwa, is a chewy sweet made from corn flour, sugar, and ghee. It has a glossy, translucent look and a firm, jelly-like texture. This halwa is colorful, slightly chewy, and popular.

74. Bread Halwa

Bread Halwa is made by frying or toasting bread pieces and then cooking them in ghee, milk, and sugar. The result is a rich, soft, and flavorful dessert. It’s an easy way to turn leftover bread into a festive treat.

75. Kada Prashad

Kada Prasad is a simple and sacred sweet made in Sikh Gurudwaras. It’s made with whole wheat flour, ghee, sugar, and water. Soft and rich, it symbolizes sharing, gratitude, and devotion.

76. Double ka Meetha

Double Ka Meetha is a Hyderabadi bread pudding made with fried bread slices soaked in sweetened milk and garnished with nuts. It’s rich, soft, and aromatic with cardamom and saffron. A classic dessert served at weddings and festivals.

Barfi Recipes

Barfi is one of the most common Indian sweets made for Diwali. You’ll find many variations using milk, nuts, grains, and flours.

Every barfi has a distinct taste and texture; some are soft and melt easily, while others are firm with a slight chewy texture. Below I list various kinds of barfi in this Diwali sweets collection.

77. Khoya Barfi

Khoya Barfi is made with milk solids (khoya), sugar, and ghee. It’s soft, rich, and flavored with cardamom. This traditional barfi is easy to make and a must during Diwali.

78. Nariyal Ki Barfi

Nariyal Barfi, or Coconut Burfi, is made with coconut, sugar, condensed milk, cashews and milk. It has a soft texture and a pleasant coconut flavor. Lightly flavored with cardamom, it’s a simple and popular sweet.

79. Dry Fruit Barfi

Dry Fruit Barfi is a mix of nuts and dried fruits bound with dates and figs. It’s rich, chewy, and full of flavor. This barfi is often made during Diwali as a healthy and festive sweet.

80. Besan Ki Barfi

Besan Barfi is made with roasted gram flour, ghee, sugar, and cardamom. It has a nutty aroma and a soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture. A classic sweet that’s easy to make and always enjoyed during festivals. Make this decadent treat a part of your Diwali Sweets.

81. Gajar Ki Barfi

Gajar Barfi is made with grated carrots, milk, and sugar. The flavor is mildly sweet and aromatic, with a bright orange color. It’s an easy, seasonal sweet often made in winter.

Homemade Sweet Treats

In this Diwali Sweets recipes section, you’ll find traditional snacks and sweet treats that can be made ahead. Most of these can be stored for a few days and refrigerated. Fried sweets usually keep longer and are perfect for gifting or festive sharing.

82. Puran Poli

Puran Poli is a traditional Maharashtrian flatbread filled with a sweet mixture of chana dal, jaggery, and spices. It has a soft texture and a warm, comforting flavor. Often made for festivals like Holi and Diwali, it’s a dish that reflects love and tradition.

83. Bobbatlu (Holige)

Bobbatlu, also called Holige or Obbattu, is a South Indian sweet flatbread filled with a mix of cooked chana dal and jaggery. It’s soft, thin, and lightly crisp on the edges. Commonly made during Ugadi, Diwali, and festive occasions.

84. Meethi Seviyan

Meethi Seviyan is a simple North Indian sweet made with roasted vermicelli, sugar, milk, and ghee. Flavored with cardamom and topped with nuts, each spoonful is warm, sweet, and satisfying.

85. Banana Appam

Banana Appam, is a South Indian sweet fritter made with ripe bananas and rice flour. Crispy outside and soft inside, it’s lightly sweet and aromatic. These are best enjoyed fresh with tea or coffee.

86. Unniyappam (Unni Appam)

Unniyappam is a Kerala sweet made with banana, jaggery, rice flour, and coconut. Cooked until golden brown, these small round appams are soft, chewy, and full of flavor. They’re often made for festive occasions and temple offerings.

87. Mangalore Buns

Mangalore Buns are deep-fried banana puris with a soft, fluffy texture and mild sweetness. They are popular as a breakfast or snack in coastal Karnataka. Enjoy them warm with tea or coffee for a comforting treat.

Cakes & Desserts Recipes

This section of Diwali Sweets includes chocolate-based and eggless cakes, desserts, and frozen treats from Indian and world cuisines. These are great for Diwali gifting or celebrations when you want something modern yet simple to make.

88. Eggless Chocolate Cake

This eggless chocolate cake is soft, rich, and moist. It’s perfect for birthdays, small gatherings, or festive desserts. You can serve it plain or top it with ganache, whipped cream, or berries for an elegant finish.

89. Eggless Black Forest Cake

Eggless Black Forest Cake has layers of chocolate sponge, whipped cream, and cherries. It’s light yet indulgent, with the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. A crowd-pleasing cake for special occasions. Make this elegant dessert as part of your Diwali Sweets recipes.

90. Biscuit Cake

Biscuit Cake is a no-bake dessert made with layers of biscuits (cookies) and melted chocolate. It’s quick to prepare and needs no oven. This simple no bake cake is loved by both kids and adults.

91. Eggless Lava Cake

Eggless Lava Cake has a soft outer layer with molten chocolate inside. It’s rich, gooey, and simple to make at home. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

92. Eggless Vanilla Cake

This eggless vanilla cake is light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet. You can serve it plain, dusted with sugar, or with cream and fruits. It’s a versatile cake that works for any celebration.

93. Eggless Pressure Cooker Cake

This cake is made in a pressure cooker and turns out soft and spongy without an oven. It’s perfect for Indian kitchens and easy enough for beginners.

94. Wheat Cake

Wheat Cake is made with whole wheat flour, sugar, and oil or butter. It’s slightly nutty, soft, and makes a good tea-time or breakfast cake. A wholesome option when you want a simple, homemade dessert for your Diwali Sweets collection.

95. Mawa Cake

Mawa Cake is a rich Indian bakery-style cake made with khoya, milk, and cardamom. It has a soft crumb and buttery flavor. Often enjoyed with tea, it’s a festive favorite in Mumbai and Pune.

96. Pound Cake

This eggless pound cake made with whole wheat flour has a dense but soft texture. It’s mildly sweet and tastes great on its own or with tea. A classic cake made healthier with simple ingredients. Make it a part of your Diwali Sweets spread.

97. Banana Cake

Banana Cake is moist, naturally sweet, and made with ripe bananas and whole wheat flour. It’s vegan, eggless, and full of flavor. Great as a snack or light dessert.

98. Orange Cake

Orange Cake is a soft, eggless cake with a bright citrus flavor. Made with whole wheat flour and fresh orange juice, it’s light, tangy, and refreshing. Perfect for those who like fruit-based desserts.

99. Eggless Pineapple Cake

This Pineapple Cake is light, moist, and filled with pineapple flavor. It’s ideal for parties, birthdays, and festive occasions. The fruit adds sweetness and freshness to every bite.

100. Date Cake

Eggless Date Cake is made with dates, walnuts, and whole wheat flour. It’s moist, naturally sweet, and makes a healthy alternative to sugary desserts. Perfect for tea-time or gifting.

101. Chocolate Zucchini Bread

Zucchini Bread is a wholesome, eggless dessert made with whole wheat flour, cocoa, and grated zucchini. It’s moist, rich, and a great way to add nutrition to a chocolate treat.

102. Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Choco Chip Cookies are crispy and slightly chewy. They’re filled with chocolate chips and easy to bake. A simple, egg-free cookie loved by all ages.

103. Eggless Chocolate Chip Muffins

These muffins are soft, chocolatey, and perfect for breakfast or snacking. Made without eggs, they stay moist and tender. Serve them warm with coffee or milk.

104. Eggless Brownies

Chocolate Brownies are rich, fudgy, and full of chocolate flavor. They’re easy to make and perfect for celebrations or dessert platters. A guaranteed hit for chocolate lovers.

105. New York Cheesecake

New York Cheesecake is rich, smooth, and creamy with a tangy flavor. It’s a classic dessert served plain or with fruit toppings. Elegant, simple, and always a favorite.

106. Panna Cotta

This Panna Cotta recipe which is an Italian dessert is made with cream, sugar, and agar agar. It’s silky, light, and mildly sweet. Serve it plain or with fruit sauce for a refined finish.

107. Chocolate Fudge

Chocolate Fudge is a quick sweet made with condensed milk, butter, and milk chocolate. It’s smooth, rich, and melts in the mouth. Perfect for gifting or festive treats.

108. Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Chocolate Chip Ice Cream combines creamy vanilla with bits of chocolate. It’s simple, classic, and always popular. Enjoy it plain or with toppings for a quick dessert.

109. Chocolate Pudding

Chocolate Pudding is creamy, eggless, and full of chocolate flavor. It’s easy to make and loved by both kids and adults. Serve chilled for a smooth, comforting dessert.

110. Kulfi

Kulfi is a traditional Indian frozen treat made by slowly simmering milk until creamy and thick. It’s creamy, dense, and flavored with cardamom, saffron, or nuts. A timeless Indian treat for summer and festivals.

111. Ice Cream

This no-churn ice cream is creamy and easy to make at home. It’s gluten-free, vegetarian, and can be customized with different flavors. A quick, fuss-free frozen dessert for any occasion.

112. Chocolate Ice Cream

Chocolate Ice Cream is rich, smooth, and perfect for chocolate lovers. It’s gluten-free and easy to make. Serve it plain or with toppings for an indulgent treat.

113. Fruit Custard

Fruit Custard combines smooth vanilla custard with chopped seasonal fruits. It’s colorful, light, and refreshing. A quick dessert for parties and family meals.

114. Trifle Pudding

Trifle Pudding is made with layers of cake, custard, fruits, and cream. It’s rich, soft, and looks beautiful when served in glasses or bowls. Great for festive gatherings. Include it in your Diwali sweets collection.

115. Instant Pot Rice Pudding

Instant Pot Rice Pudding is a creamy, comforting dessert made with rice, milk, and sugar. The electric pressure cooker makes it quick and fuss-free.

116. Tiramisu Recipe

This eggless tiramisu has coffee-soaked layers, mascarpone, and cream. It’s rich, smooth, and elegant, a great dessert for festive meals or special dinners.