Karanji Recipe - A Perfectly Crispy Indian Sweet for Festive Occasions

Karanji also called Gujiya, is a traditional Indian sweet, it’s a delightful treat often prepared during festivals like Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi. Crispy on the outside and filled with a sweet, coconut-based stuffing, this crescent-shaped pastry is a true indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. Karanji is especially beloved for its unique combination of textures—the flaky, golden crust encasing a soft, fragrant filling that bursts with flavours of coconut, cardamom, and sugar.

While Karanji holds a special place in festive celebrations, it’s also a recipe that can be enjoyed year-round, as its ingredients are simple yet rich in flavour. In this post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to make karanji at home, along with some helpful tips to ensure yours turn out as delicious as those served at the finest sweet shops.

Karanji Ingredients:

To make Karanji, you’ll need a mix of basic ingredients that are easy to find, yet come together to create a flavour-packed, satisfying treat. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour (maida)
• 2 tablespoons of semolina (optional, for added crispiness)
• 3 tablespoons of ghee (clarified butter)
• A pinch of salt
• Water, as required (for kneading)
• For the Filling:
• 1 cup grated coconut (fresh or desiccated)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons chopped almonds
• 2 tablespoons chopped cashews
• 1 tablespoon raisins
• 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional, for extra texture)
• 2 teaspoons ghee

For Frying:

Oil or ghee, for deep frying

Now that you’ve gathered the ingredients, let’s get into the actual process of preparing these delicious Karanjis!

How to Make Karanji: Step-by-Step Process:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, add the all-purpose flour, semolina (if using), and a pinch of salt. Pour in the ghee and mix it well with your hands until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Gradually add water, little by little, and knead the dough until it is soft and smooth. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

2. Make the Filling:

In a pan, heat 2 teaspoons of ghee and lightly roast the grated coconut until it turns golden brown. Add the chopped almonds, cashews, and raisins, and sauté them briefly. Once the mixture is fragrant, remove it from heat. Stir in the powdered sugar and cardamom powder once the mixture has cooled slightly. Mix everything well and set aside.

3. Roll out the Dough:

After the dough has rested, divide it into small, equal-sized balls. Roll each ball into a thin, circular sheet, approximately 4-5 inches in diameter. Make sure the rolled dough is neither too thick nor too thin to avoid breaking while frying.

4. Fill and seal the Karanji:

Place a tablespoon of the prepared filling in the centre of each rolled-out dough circle. Carefully fold the dough into a semi-circle, sealing the edges tightly by pressing them together. You can use a fork to create a crimped design along the edges or fold the edges in a pleated pattern to ensure they are sealed well and won’t open while frying.

5. Fry the Karanji:

Heat oil or ghee in a deep-frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gently slide in a few Karanjis at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove the Karanjis from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain the excess oil.

6. Cool and Serve:

Once cooled, your Karanjis are ready to be enjoyed! They can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them the perfect make-ahead sweet for festivals or family gatherings.

Tips for Customizing Karanji:

While the classic coconut and dry fruit filling is the most popular version of Karanji, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe to suit your preferences:

• Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of melted chocolate inside the filling for a decadent modern take on the traditional sweet.
• Khoya (Mawa) Filling: You can swap out the coconut with khoya (reduced milk solids) for a richer, creamier filling.
• Healthier Alternatives: For a healthier version, try baking the Karanjis instead of frying them. Brush them with a little ghee and bake them at 180°C for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Feel free to experiment with different fillings or shapes, but remember to maintain the balance between crispiness and sweetness, which is the hallmark of a perfect Karanji.

Karanji is more than just a festive sweet—it’s a symbol of tradition, family, and celebration. Whether you’re making them for Diwali, sharing them with friends, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, the Karanji recipe offers a delightful combination of textures and flavours that is hard to resist. With a crispy, golden shell and a sweet, coconutty filling, this treat is sure to become a favourite for all occasions. Try this easy Karanji recipe to bring the taste of tradition into your home today!

FAQ:

Where does Karanji originate from?

Karanji, also known as Kajjikayalu, is a popular deep-fried pastry filled with sweetened coconut and nuts. This festive sweet is traditionally made in Maharashtra and is also widely enjoyed across South India, making it a beloved treat in both regions during celebrations.

What are the Club Mahindra resorts in Maharashtra?

Club Mahindra offers several beautiful resorts in Maharashtra, perfect for a relaxing vacation. Here are some of the top choices:

• Club Mahindra Hatgad Resort, Nashik – Nestled near Saputara, this resort in Nashik offers scenic views and proximity to Nashik’s vineyards and temples.
• Club Mahindra Sherwood Mahabaleshwar Resort, Maharashtra – Located in the hill station of Mahabaleshwar, this resort in Mahabaleshwar provides access to nature trails and stunning viewpoints.
• Club Mahindra Saj Mahabaleshwar Resort, Maharashtra – Another great option in Mahabaleshwar, perfect for enjoying the cool climate and exploring the area.
• Club Mahindra Alibaug Resort, Maharashtra – A beachside escape, this resort in Alibaug is ideal for relaxing by the sea and enjoying water sports.
• Club Mahindra Tungi Lonavala Resort, Maharashtra – Overlooking Pavna Lake, this resort in Lonavala offers adventure activities like trekking and is a great spot for nature lovers.

What are the benefits of Club Mahindra Membership?

Becoming a Club Mahindra member offers exclusive benefits, including access to over 140+ Club Mahindra resorts across India, discounted rates, and family-friendly amenities. With a Club Mahindra Membership, members can enjoy flexible vacation planning with various season options, making it easy to book trips at any time of year. Many positive members reviews highlighted about the comfortable accommodations, excellent service, and wide range of activities. Families especially love the child-friendly environment and engaging activities at the resorts, making vacations hassle-free and memorable.