Almond flour halwa is a traditional Indian dessert made primarily from almond flour, ghee (clarified butter), sugar, and aromatic spices like cardamom and saffron. The term "badam" means almond in Hindi, and "halwa" refers to a type of pudding. This dessert is enjoyed across India, especially during festivals like Diwali and Holi, and is often served at weddings and special gatherings.

Using almond flour instead of whole almonds makes the preparation much quicker and easier. Traditional recipes often require soaking, peeling, and grinding almonds, which can be time-consuming. With almond flour, you can skip these steps and still achieve a rich, creamy texture in less than 30 minutes.

To make almond flour halwa, you will need the following ingredients:

Almond Flour: 1 cup (preferably blanched and fine)
Ghee: 1/3 cup, divided
Milk: 1 cup (you can use full-fat cow's milk or plant-based milk)
Sugar: 1/2 cup (adjust to taste)
Cardamom Powder: 1/4 teaspoon
Saffron Strands: A pinch (optional, for flavor and color)
Nuts for Garnish: Slivered almonds or pistachios

Preparation Steps

Infuse Saffron: Heat 1 tablespoon of milk in a small pan. Add a pinch of saffron strands and let it sit for about 5 minutes to release its flavor and color.

Cook the Almond Flour: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee on medium flame. Once melted, add the almond flour and sauté for about 10 minutes until it turns golden and fragrant.

Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the remaining milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until the almond flour absorbs the milk.

Add Sugar and Flavorings: Stir in the sugar, saffron milk, and cardamom powder. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the halwa thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan.

Finish with Ghee: Add the remaining ghee and mix well. Cook for another few minutes until the halwa reaches a pudding-like consistency.

Serve: Transfer the halwa to a serving bowl and garnish with slivered almonds or pistachios. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Use High-Quality Almond Flour: Ensure that you use fine, blanched almond flour for the best texture. Avoid almond meal, which is coarser and may result in a grainy halwa.

Adjust Sweetness: You can modify the sugar quantity based on your preference. For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to about 75 grams.

Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of turmeric for color or a splash of rose water for a fragrant twist.

Storage: Almond flour halwa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also freezes well for up to a month.

Almond flour halwa is a delightful dessert that combines simplicity and rich flavors, making it a favorite among many. With this easy recipe, you can whip up a delicious batch in no time, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a festival or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this almond flour halwa is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy making this traditional Indian dessert and share it with your loved ones!