Oct 03 , 2023

8 Classic Indian Desserts: Time-Tested Recipes from Nani’s Kitchen

By True Scoop

Floating Island (Île Flottante): A classic French dessert consisting of meringue “islands” floating on a sea of crème anglaise (vanilla custard).

Jelly Roll: A sponge cake spread with jelly or jam, rolled up, and often dusted with powdered sugar. It’s a vintage treat that’s simple yet delicious.

Blancmange: A creamy, almond-flavored dessert that was once a staple in British and French cuisine. It’s similar to a panna cotta but with a distinct almond flavor.

Charlotte Russe: A Victorian-era dessert made with ladyfingers or sponge cake lined in a mold, filled with Bavarian cream or custard, and often topped with fruit.

Diplomat Pudding: A dessert that combines fruit, such as berries or peaches, with pieces of stale cake or brioche, soaked in a flavored custard or sauce.

Semolina Pudding (Suji Halwa): A comforting Indian dessert made from semolina cooked with ghee, sugar, and flavored with cardamom and saffron.

Jaggery Pudding (Gur Payesh): A traditional Bengali dessert made from rice, milk, and jaggery (unrefined sugar), giving it a unique sweetness and flavor.

Brown Betty: A baked dessert that layers sweetened fruit, usually apples, with buttered breadcrumbs or cookie crumbs, creating a delightful contrast in textures.