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Gajar Ka Halwa (Carrot Pudding)

Few Indian desserts are as beloved as Gajar Ka Halwa—sweet, slow-cooked carrot pudding enriched with milk, sugar, and ghee. Its aroma evokes celebrations and family gatherings across generations.

This recipe delivers classic North Indian flavor using ingredients easily available in the US, UK, or Canada. Grated carrots are simmered to creamy, fragrant perfection, with plenty of options for stovetop or Instant Pot. Whether you’re nostalgic for home or craving something new, this Gajar Ka Halwa is guaranteed to impress.

Why you'll love it
  • Truly authentic taste and texture
  • No khoya or mawa required
  • Simple ingredients from any supermarket
  • Naturally gluten-free
  • Easy to make ahead—tastes even better next day
  • Includes quick Instant Pot variation
Prep 20 minutesCook 50 minutesTotal 1 hour 10 minutesServes 6Dessert

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900 g) carrots (preferably red or orange), peeled and grated
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
  • 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup (75 g) ghee (or unsalted butter)
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) raw cashews and slivered almonds, mixed
  • 1/2 tsp ground cardamom (or seeds from 5 green pods, crushed)
  • 2 tbsp golden raisins (optional)
  • Pinch of saffron threads (optional, for color/aroma)

Instructions

  1. Heat ghee in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add cashews and almonds; fry for 1-2 minutes until golden, then remove and set aside.
  2. Add grated carrots to the pan. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring often, until they soften and reduce in volume.
  3. Pour in the milk. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, until most of the milk is absorbed and carrots are tender—about 25-30 minutes.
  4. Add sugar, cardamom, and saffron (if using). Mix well; cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring often, until mixture thickens and ghee starts separating at the edges.
  5. Stir in raisins (if using) and half the fried nuts. Cook 2-3 more minutes.
  6. Transfer to a serving dish; garnish with remaining nuts. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Make It Your Way

Instant Pot Version

Set Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add ghee and fry nuts. Remove nuts, then add carrots and sauté 3 minutes. Add milk, stir, seal, and cook on Manual (High) for 3 minutes. Quick release, set to Sauté, add sugar, cardamom, saffron, and cook, stirring, until thick (10-12 min). Finish with raisins and nuts as above.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find ghee, use unsalted butter. Regular orange carrots work if red carrots are unavailable. Substitute evaporated milk for whole milk for a richer taste, or try coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Cardamom powder can be swapped for cinnamon or omitted if needed. Use pecans or walnuts in place of cashews/almonds.

Expert Tips

  • Grate carrots finely for the best, smooth texture.
  • Don’t rush the simmering—slow cooking develops flavor and richness.
  • Stir often, especially after adding sugar, to prevent sticking.
  • Add a little extra ghee at the end for a glossy finish.
  • Halwa thickens as it cools—stop cooking when it’s slightly loose.
  • Red carrots (if available) give the most authentic color and sweetness.

What to Serve It With

Serve Gajar Ka Halwa warm or at room temperature, topped with extra nuts or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It's ideal for Diwali, holidays, or any special family dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave. Halwa can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-shredded carrots?

Pre-shredded carrots are convenient but yield a coarser texture. For best results, grate fresh carrots at home.

Is Gajar Ka Halwa gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written.

Can I make Gajar Ka Halwa vegan?

Yes—replace ghee with coconut oil and use coconut or almond milk. The taste will differ but is still delicious.

Why is my halwa not thickening?

Continue simmering uncovered, stirring often. If still too runny, cook on medium-low heat until it thickens.

Can I use condensed milk instead of sugar and milk?

Yes, substitute 1 can (14 oz/400 g) sweetened condensed milk for both milk and sugar. Adjust sweetness to taste.

What's the best way to reheat Gajar Ka Halwa?

Reheat in the microwave in 30-second bursts or in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.

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