Carrot Halwa recipe (Gajar ka Halwa) :
When winter comes in India, one dessert takes over every home – Gajar Ka Halwa! This sweet, rich and comforting carrot halwa is made using fresh red carrots, milk, ghee, and sugar, and it melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s not just a sweet dish; it’s an emotion for many Indian families during festivals and cold evenings. Whether it's a wedding, Diwali, or just a family get-together, this homemade carrot halwa recipe always wins hearts.
Also known as carrot pudding, this dessert is super popular across North India, especially in Delhi and Punjab. You can make it with or without khoya, and even try it with condensed milk for a quick version.
If you’re searching for how to make carrot halwa at home, easy gajar ka halwa recipe, or Indian winter dessert, you’re in the right place!
About my Carrot Halwa recipe :
Halwas have always been a sweet part of Indian tradition, made using ingredients like wheat flour, lentils, fruits, nuts, ghee, sugar, and milk. But among all, Carrot Halwa, also known as Gajar Ka Halwa, holds a special place in every Indian heart—especially during the winter season. Made from fresh red carrots, slow-cooked in full cream milk, flavored with cardamom, and enriched with ghee and dry fruits, this rich and comforting dessert is truly irresistible.
People love carrot halwa not just for its amazing taste but also for its warmth, texture, and the nostalgia it brings. It's a popular treat in North India, especially in Delhi, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh, where red carrots are easily available in winter. Whether served hot or chilled, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or just as it is—gajar ka halwa recipe is searched and loved by food lovers across the country.
If you're looking for the best carrot halwa recipe, easy gajar halwa at home, or a traditional Indian dessert for winter, this dish never disappoints.
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Ingredients needed for Carrot's Halwa :
– 4 cups grated red carrots (preferably winter carrots)
– 2 cups full cream milk
– 4 tablespoons ghee
– ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
– 5-6 cashews (broken)
– 5-6 almonds (sliced)
– 4-5 cardamom pods (crushed)
– 2 tablespoons raisins (optional)
Steps for Carrot halwa recipe:
Step 1: Wash and Grate the Carrots
Take fresh, juicy red carrots (desi gajar is best for winters) and wash them properly. Peel the skin and grate them using a hand grater or food processor. Fresh grated carrots bring natural sweetness and texture to the halwa.
Step 2: Cook Carrots in Milk
In a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai, add the grated carrots and pour in full cream milk. Let it cook on medium flame while stirring occasionally. This step is important to soften the carrots and allow them to absorb the milk flavor.
Step 3: Stir and Cook Until Milk Reduces
Let the carrots simmer in milk until the milk is completely absorbed and thickened. Keep stirring in between so it doesn’t stick at the bottom. This slow cooking gives the halwa its rich and creamy texture.
Step 4: Add Sugar and Cardamom
Once the milk is absorbed, add sugar as per your taste. Mix well and cook till the sugar melts completely. Also add crushed cardamom (elaichi) to enhance the aroma.
Step 5: Pour Ghee and Mix
Now add ghee to the halwa and mix it nicely. Ghee gives it that shiny, smooth texture and authentic Indian sweet flavor. Let it cook for 5–10 more minutes on low flame.
Step 6: Fry Dry Fruits and Add
In a small pan, heat 1 spoon ghee and lightly roast cashews, almonds, and raisins till golden. Add them to the halwa and give it a final stir. These nuts add crunch and richness to your Gajar Ka Halwa.
Step 7: Serve Hot or Chilled
Your homemade carrot halwa is ready! Serve it hot in winters or chill it in the fridge if you like. It also tastes amazing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Extra Tips for Gajar Ka Halwa:
– Always use red desi carrots in winter—they are sweeter and juicier than orange ones.
– Use a heavy-bottomed kadhai or non-stick pan to prevent burning at the bottom.
– Cook the carrots in full cream milk for a rich and creamy taste—avoid low-fat milk.
– Stir the halwa often while cooking, especially after adding milk and sugar.
– Adjust sugar according to the sweetness of carrots—some are naturally sweet.
– Adding a little khoya (mawa) gives an extra rich flavor, just like halwai-style halwa.
FAQ’s About Carrot Halwa Recipe
1. Can I make carrot halwa without khoya?
Yes, you can easily make carrot halwa without khoya. Just cook it longer in full cream milk for a rich taste. Many people prefer the classic version with only milk and ghee.
2. Which carrots are best for Gajar Ka Halwa?
Red, juicy Indian (desi) carrots available in winter are best. They are naturally sweet and give the best flavor and texture to the halwa.
3. Can I store carrot halwa?
Yes, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Reheat before serving for best taste.
Conclusion :
Carrot Halwa, or Gajar Ka Halwa, is more than just a dessert—it's a heartwarming winter treat that brings families together. Made with fresh carrots, milk, ghee, and love, this traditional Indian sweet is perfect for festivals, special occasions, or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings. Whether you're searching for an easy carrot halwa recipe, gajar ka halwa without khoya, or a traditional Indian dessert, this classic dish will never disappoint. Try it once, and it will surely become your winter favorite!
