Welcome to the delightful world of Coconut Ladoo! These sweet, bite-sized treats are perfect for celebrating special occasions or just indulging in a little homemade goodness. With a rich coconut flavor enhanced by aromatic cardamom, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Start by heating a non-stick pan over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of ghee. Once the ghee is melted and hot, toss in the freshly grated coconut. Stir it around for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes fragrant. This step is crucial as it deepens the coconut’s flavor.
Next, pour in the entire can of sweetened condensed milk. Stir well to combine everything, then lower the heat. Keep stirring the mixture as it cooks; you’ll notice it thickening up. Patience is key here—keep stirring until it reaches a thick consistency.
Now, sprinkle in the cardamom powder and mix thoroughly to ensure it’s evenly distributed. Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool down just enough to handle.
Grease your palms with a little ghee, which will prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands. Scoop out small portions and roll them into balls. Once shaped, roll each ball in desiccated coconut to coat it evenly.
If you’re adding nuts, gently press a few pieces into each ladoo. Let them cool completely before serving or storing, allowing the flavors to meld together.
These Coconut Ladoos are perfect for festive gatherings or as a dessert addition to a traditional Indian meal. Pair them with a cup of chai tea for a delightful afternoon treat. They also make a great gift, beautifully packaged in decorative boxes.
Freshly grated coconut is the star of the show, providing a natural, sweet flavor and chewy texture. Sweetened condensed milk serves as the sweet binder, simplifying the process by combining sweetness and creaminess in one. A touch of ghee adds a rich, buttery flavor and helps in roasting the coconut to perfection. Cardamom powder is the key spice here, adding a warm, aromatic touch that complements the coconut beautifully. The chopped nuts, though optional, bring a delightful crunch to each bite. Lastly, desiccated coconut for rolling adds a dry, decorative finish that amplifies the coconut flavor.