Delhi, the heart of India, is not just famous for its rich history and cultural heritage but also for its delectable cuisine. Among its diverse culinary offerings, Delhi’s sweet dishes stand out as a true testament to the city’s love for food. Whether you’re strolling through the streets of Old Delhi or exploring modern sweet shops, the flavors of the capital will leave you craving more. Here’s a curated list of Sweet Dishes of Delhi that you simply cannot miss.
List of Famous Sweet Dishes of Delhi
1. Jalebi
A staple in the Delhi sweets menu, Jalebi is a spiral-shaped dessert soaked in sugar syrup. Known for its crispy exterior and gooey center, this dessert is often enjoyed with milk or curd. Some of the best Jalebis can be found in Old Delhi famous sweets spots like the iconic Old Famous Jalebi Wala in Chandni Chowk.
2. Rabri Falooda
One of the most popular items on the Delhi Sweets menu, Rabri Falooda is a layered dessert of rabri (thickened milk), falooda (vermicelli noodles), and rose syrup. Served chilled, it’s a summer favorite. Kallan Sweets in Old Delhi is a go-to spot for this heavenly dessert.
3. Kheer
Kheer, a rice pudding made with milk, sugar, and nuts, is one of the top 10 sweets in Delhi. Whether it’s served plain or flavored with cardamom and saffron, this dessert has a comforting, homely taste. Karim’s in Old Delhi offers one of the best versions of this classic sweet dish.
4. Daulat Ki Chaat
Unique to Old Delhi, Daulat Ki Chaat is a winter delicacy made from milk froth and topped with saffron, cardamom, and nuts. Its airy, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes it a must-try from the Delhi famous sweets list. Vendors in Chandni Chowk prepare it fresh every morning, making it an exclusive treat.
5. Pista Kulfi
Kulfi, India’s version of ice cream, is a creamy, frozen dessert that’s especially loved in its pistachio flavor. Found in most Delhi famous sweet shops, Pista Kulfi is a summer favorite. Roshan Di Kulfi in Karol Bagh serves one of the best kulfis in the city, often accompanied by falooda.
6. Ghevar
Originating from Rajasthan but immensely popular in Delhi, Ghevar is a disc-shaped dessert made of flour and soaked in sugar syrup. Often served during festivals like Teej, Ghevar is one of Delhi famous sweets. The legendary Haldiram’s outlets across the city serve excellent varieties of this dish.
7. Besan Ladoo
This classic sweet is made of gram flour, ghee, and sugar, and is loved for its rich, nutty flavor. It’s a common household treat and one of the simplest yet tastiest items on the Delhi Sweets menu. Bikanervala and Evergreen Sweet House in South Delhi are great places to buy authentic Besan Ladoos.
8. Imarti
Imarti is a close cousin of Jalebi but is thicker and made from urad dal batter. This traditional sweet is part of the Old Delhi famous sweets collection and is best enjoyed hot. The famous Kallan Sweets in Chandni Chowk serves fresh Imarti that you shouldn’t miss.
9. Rasmalai
Soft, spongy dumplings made from chenna (cottage cheese) and soaked in flavored milk, Rasmalai is one of the top 10 sweets in Delhi. In addition to its creamy texture, it has a subtle sweetness that makes it a crowd favorite. Bengali Sweet House in Connaught Place is a highly recommended spot for authentic Rasmalai.
10. Gajar Ka Halwa
A winter specialty, Gajar Ka Halwa (carrot pudding) is made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee. Its rich, warm flavors make it one of the most sought-after sweet dishes of Delhi. Natraj Sweets in Old Delhi and Annapurna Sweets in North Delhi are famous for their mouth-watering versions of this dessert.
11. Soan Papdi
This flaky, cube-shaped sweet is a quintessential part of the Delhi famous sweets list, often given as gifts during festivals. Soan Papdi is available in almost every sweet shop, but the freshness at Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners in Chandni Chowk makes their version stand out.
12. Barfi
Barfi comes in many varieties, from plain milk barfi to flavors like pistachio and almond. One of the highlights of the Delhi sweets menu, this sweet is a versatile choice for any celebration. Try the cashew-based Kaju Katli at Haldiram’s for an indulgent treat.
13. Lassi (Sweetened Yogurt Drink)
Though technically a drink, sweet lassi is a dessert in its own right. This thick, creamy yogurt-based drink is best enjoyed at Delhi famous sweet shops like Amritsari Lassi Wala in Connaught Place.
14. Milk Cake
A dense, caramelized dessert, Milk Cake is made by reducing milk until it solidifies. It’s one of the most famous sweets in North India for enjoying traditional flavors. Rewari Sweets in Old Delhi is known for its authentic Milk Cake.
15. Balushahi
Balushahi is a deep-fried, sugar-soaked dessert similar to a glazed doughnut but with a flaky texture. It’s a hidden gem among the Old Delhi famous sweets and is best found at Kallan Sweets in Chandni Chowk.
16. Petha
Originating from Agra but beloved in Delhi, Petha is a translucent, soft candy made from ash gourd. While it’s not unique to Delhi, you’ll find excellent varieties at Old Delhi’s famous sweet shops.
17. Nankhatai
A traditional shortbread cookie, Nankhatai is one of the lesser-known yet delightful items on the Delhi sweets menu. It’s perfect for pairing with tea and is widely available in the city’s bakeries and sweet shops.
18. Moong Dal Halwa
Made with ground moong dal, ghee, and sugar, this decadent dessert is a winter specialty and one of the top 10 sweets in Delhi. Try it at Evergreen Sweet House or Giani’s for the most authentic experience.
19. Sohan Halwa
This rich and chewy sweet, loaded with dry fruits, is an integral part of the Delhi famous sweets list. Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners in Chandni Chowk is the most recommended place to taste this delicacy.
20. Khurchan
Unique to Old Delhi, Khurchan is a dessert made from milk scraps collected from the sides of the pan during boiling. Its creamy, rich texture makes it a hidden treasure among Old Delhi famous sweets.
21. Malpua
This pancake-like dessert soaked in sugar syrup is a treat for the taste buds. Found in many Delhi famous sweet shops, Malpua is best enjoyed with a dollop of rabri.
22. Chena Murki
Chena Murki is a Bengali dessert made of small chenna cubes coated in sugar syrup. Although originally from Bengal, it’s a popular addition to the Delhi sweets menu. Bengali Sweet House in Connaught Place serves an excellent version.
Conclusion
Delhi’s sweet scene is a testament to its rich culinary diversity and cultural heritage. From traditional treats like Jalebi and Daulat Ki Chaat to modern favorites like Rasmalai, the city offers something for every sweet tooth.
If you’re on a trip to explore Delhi’s culinary treasures, you’ll find the best sweet dishes in places like Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place, and Karol Bagh.
