When it comes to traditional Indian desserts, Makhana Kheer (also known as Foxnut or Lotus Seed Pudding) holds a special place. It’s rich, creamy, and infused with cardamom and saffron flavor, making it perfect for festive occasions, vrat (fasting), or just for a get togther. Do you know what is the best part about it? This kheer is absolutely delicious and loaded with nutrition.
I’ve made this a few times before but never got around to sharing it with you all. This time, I made sure to prepare it especially for Navratri and share the recipe with you. It’s a super easy dish that’s sure to delight—hope you enjoy it!
What is Makhana?
Makhana, or foxnuts or Euryale Ferox are puffed water lily seeds widely used in Indian cooking, especially during fasting periods like Navratri. They’re light, crunchy, and known for their health benefits and considered as global superfood. Makhana can be used to make savory snack or sweet dish. You can read more about here.
Why You’ll Love Makhana Kheer
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Nutritious and filling
- Perfect for festive occasions or fasting days
- A delightful balance of flavor, texture, and health benefits
- Can be made ahead
6 Benefits of Makhana
- Packed with essential nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and fiber
- Rich source of antioxidants
- May help regulate blood sugar levels
- Can aid in weight management
- Supports healthy, glowing skin with age
- Promotes heart health
Tips & Variations to make Makhana Kheer
- For a healthier twist, use jaggery instead of sugar. Add it after turning off the flame so the milk doesn’t curdle.
- You can blend some makhana after roasting to get an even creamier texture.
- Add raisins or dates for natural sweetness.
- Vegan option: use almond or coconut milk instead of dairy milk.
More fasting recipes from my blog:
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Do give this finger-licking Makhana Kheer a try this Navratri or Diwali! It’s a true showstopper that looks festive and indulgent without demanding hours in the kitchen.
With its creamy texture, subtle sweetness, and the richness of makhana and nuts, this kheer is guaranteed to impress your family and guests. Quick to make, divine to taste—this is one dessert you’ll find yourself making again and again!
If you give the recipe a whirl, I’d love to hear from you. Drop a comment down below to let me know how it turned out – your feedback means the world to me!
Your thoughts, likes and even dislikes are super valuable to me – they help me create content that truly resonates with you. Thanks a million for taking the time to stop by! Your support fuels my passion for sharing amazing recipes with all of you. 🥰👩🍳🙏
Happy Cooking!!!
Makhana Kheer | Perfect Festive or Fasting Sweet
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Ghee
- 1.25 cup Makhana
- 3 cups milk
- 2 tbsp almonds slivered
- 2 tbsp cashews slivered
- ¼ tsp elaichi powder
- 15 strands saffron
- 3 tbso sugar
Instructions
- In a pan or pot you are using, add ghee and roast makhanas slightly and take it out in a plate. Set aside to cool down.
- Now in the same pan, add 1/2 tbsp of ghee and saute almonds and cashews for a few secs. Take them out as well.
- Add milk in the same pan and bring it to a boil while stirring it continuously to avoid sticking to the pan.
- In the meanwhile grind sauteed makhana (keep 1/4th cup aside), almonds and cashews into a coarse powder.
- Add saffron strands and the powder you made in to the milk. Let it cook on a medium heat with continuously stirring.
- At this time, add elaichi powder, sugar and additional chopped nuts of your choice.
- Cook until you get the desired consistency. Now add the remaining makhana to the milk mixture and let it cook for 3-4 mins.
- Now your Makhana Kheer is ready. You can serve it hot or cold garnished with nuts, & dried rose petals.