Makhane Ki Kheer

Makhane Ki Kheer, also known as Foxnut Pudding, is a delightful dessert enjoyed during the Navratras fasting period. Made from Makhana (foxnuts) cooked in sweetened milk and flavored with aromatic spices like cardamom and saffron, this kheer is a creamy and indulgent treat that satisfies sweet cravings while adhering to fasting dietary restrictions. Makhane, known for their crunchy texture and mild flavor, lend a unique nuttiness to the kheer, making it a favorite among devotees observing fasts. With its rich and comforting taste, Makhane Ki Kheer is sure to evoke feelings of warmth and contentment, making it a perfect way to conclude a fasting meal or offer as prasad (offering) during religious ceremonies.
The preparation of Makhane Ki Kheer is simple yet rewarding, requiring just a few basic ingredients and minimal cooking time. Makhana is roasted until crisp and then simmered in sweetened milk until it absorbs the creamy goodness and softens to perfection. The addition of aromatic spices like cardamom and saffron enhances the flavor profile of the kheer, creating a sensory experience that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether served hot or chilled, Makhane Ki Kheer is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with fasting-friendly sweets like fruit chaat or sabudana khichdi.
Ingredients Required for Making Makhane Ki Kheer

- Makhana (मखाना) – 1 cup
- Milk (दूध) – 1 liter
- Sugar (चीनी) – 1/2 cup (adjust to taste)
- Cardamom powder (इलायची पाउडर) – 1/2 teaspoon
- Saffron strands (केसर) – a pinch, soaked in warm milk
- Chopped nuts (optional for garnish) (कटा हुआ मेवा) – such as almonds, cashews, and pistachios
Step-wise Process of Making Makhane Ki Kheer
- Prepare the Makhana: Heat a dry skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the makhana and dry roast them until they become crisp and light brown in color. Allow them to cool slightly, then coarsely crush them using a mortar and pestle or pulse them briefly in a food processor.
- Simmer the Milk: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the milk to a boil over medium heat. Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Add Makhana and Sugar: Once the milk has reduced slightly and thickened to your desired consistency, add the crushed makhana and sugar to the pan. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Infuse Flavor: Add cardamom powder and soaked saffron strands (along with the milk) to the kheer. Stir gently to incorporate the flavors and continue to simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the makhana to soften further and absorb the flavors of the milk.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the kheer reaches the desired consistency and the makhana is soft, remove it from the heat. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired. Serve the Makhane Ki Kheer hot or chilled, as per your preference.
Number of Servings
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time Required
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Important Points to Keep in Mind While Making the Dish
- Roasting Makhana: Ensure that the makhana are roasted until they become crisp but not burnt. This step enhances their flavor and texture.
- Milk Consistency: Simmer the milk on low heat, stirring occasionally, to prevent it from scorching and sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Sugar Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preference. You can add more or less sugar as desired.
- Saffron Infusion: Soak the saffron strands in warm milk for a few minutes before adding them to the kheer. This helps release their color and flavor.
How to Serve Makhane Ki Kheer

Serve Makhane Ki Kheer hot or chilled in individual bowls. Garnish with chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Enjoy this creamy and indulgent dessert as a sweet conclusion to your Navratras fasting meal or as prasad during religious ceremonies.
Final Thoughts…
Makhane Ki Kheer is a heavenly dessert that captures the essence of Navratras fasting with its creamy texture and aromatic flavor. Whether enjoyed hot or chilled, this indulgent treat is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So, embrace the festive spirit and treat yourself to the irresistible goodness of Makhane Ki Kheer during Navratras and beyond.
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