20 Famous Sweets in Karnataka You Must Try

Karnataka, a state known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse cuisine, offers a delightful array of traditional sweets that are loved by locals and visitors alike. From melt-in-the-mouth delicacies to unique regional specialties, the state’s sweet offerings are a perfect blend of taste and tradition. Whether you have a sweet tooth or are simply exploring Karnataka’s culinary treasures, you cannot miss these famous sweets in Karnataka. Each of these treats has a unique taste, deeply rooted in tradition and crafted with love. Get ready to indulge in a sugary journey through Karnataka’s finest desserts. 

Here are the top 20 must-try sweets that showcase Karnataka’s rich flavors and culinary heritage.

In this Blog:

20 Famous Sweets in Karnataka You Must Try

1. Mysore Pak
2. Dharwad Peda
3. Kesari Bath
4. Belgaum Kunda
5. Besan Ladoo
6. Chiroti
7. Obbattu
8. Karjikai
9. Gasagase Payasa
10. Kajjaya
11. Karadantu
12. Rava Unde
13. Dumrot/Khasi Halwa
14. Avarebele Halwa
15. Hayagreeva
16. Manohara
17. Peni
18. Balushahi
19. Sweet Pongal
20. Jangir

• Mysore Pak

Mysore Pak, one of Karnataka’s most iconic sweets, is a rich and delicious delicacy that originated in the royal kitchens of the Mysore Palace. Made with just three simple ingredients, gram flour, ghee, and sugar, this sweet treat boasts a melt-in-the-mouth texture and an irresistible aroma. The balance of crispiness on the outside and softness inside makes it a favorite among sweet lovers. Traditionally served during festivals and special occasions, Mysore Pak holds a special place in Karnataka’s culinary heritage. Its golden hue and buttery richness make it truly indulgent. A bite of this legendary sweet is sure to leave you craving more!

2. Dharwad Peda

Dharwad Peda is a legendary sweet that holds a special place among the famous sweets in Karnataka. Originating from the town of Dharwad, this delicacy has a rich history dating back over a century. Made from caramelized milk and sugar, it has a unique grainy texture and a deep, earthy sweetness that sets it apart from other pedas. The slow-cooking process enhances its rich flavor, making it a favorite treat for sweet lovers. Its distinct taste and heritage make Dharwad Peda a must-try dessert when exploring Karnataka’s sweet traditions.

3. Kesari Bath

Kesari Bath is a beloved dessert that stands out among the famous sweets in Karnataka. This rich and aromatic dish is made with semolina (rava), ghee, sugar, and saffron, giving it a vibrant golden hue and a delightful flavor. Often garnished with nuts and raisins, Kesari Bath has a soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture that makes it a favorite at festivals, weddings, and special occasions. A popular breakfast or dessert option, it is commonly paired with Khara Bath, forming the classic Karnataka dish, "Chow Chow Bath." Its delicate sweetness and fragrant essence make Kesari Bath a must-try treat for anyone exploring Karnataka’s culinary delights!

4. Belgaum Kunda

Belgaum Kunda is a rich and flavorful delicacy that holds a special place among the famous sweets in Karnataka. Originating from the city of Belgaum, this sweet is made by slow-cooking milk and khova until it caramelizes, giving it a deep, earthy flavor and a grainy yet smooth texture. The addition of sugar and cardamom enhances its taste, making it a truly indulgent treat. Known for its unique preparation method, Belgaum Kunda is a must-try for those who love traditional sweets with a rich, caramelized essence. Whether enjoyed during festivals or as a special treat, this dessert perfectly represents Karnataka’s culinary heritage.

5. Besan Ladoo

Besan Ladoo is a classic Indian sweet that holds a special place in Karnataka’s festive and culinary traditions. Made with roasted gram flour, ghee, and sugar, these golden, melt-in-the-mouth treats are loved for their rich, nutty flavor and irresistible aroma. Often garnished with nuts and flavored with cardamom, they are a staple during celebrations and religious occasions. The slow-roasting process enhances the taste, giving them a distinct texture that is both soft and slightly crunchy. Simple yet delicious, these ladoos are a perfect blend of sweetness and warmth, making them a favorite across generations.

6. Chiroti

Chiroti is a delicate and flaky sweet that is a beloved part of Karnataka’s rich dessert tradition. Made by layering fine dough, deep-frying it until crisp, and then dusting it with powdered sugar or dipping it in fragrant sugar syrup, this dessert is a true indulgence. The light, crispy texture and subtle sweetness make it a festive favorite, often served during weddings and special occasions. Some variations include a drizzle of warm milk and a sprinkle of cardamom, enhancing its rich taste. This royal treat, with its airy crunch and melt-in-the-mouth goodness, is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

7. Obbattu

Obbattu, also known as Holige or Puran Poli, is a cherished delicacy among the famous sweets in Karnataka. This traditional sweet flatbread is made with a soft, thin outer layer of wheat or maida dough, filled with a rich mixture of jaggery, chana dal, and cardamom. Lightly roasted on a griddle with ghee, Obbattu has a mildly crispy texture with a sweet and aromatic filling that melts in the mouth. It is a staple during festivals like Ugadi and Diwali, symbolizing prosperity and celebration. Whether served warm with a drizzle of ghee or paired with milk, this sweet treat is a true taste of Karnataka’s festive traditions.

8. Karjikai

Karjikai, also known as Karanji, is a crispy and flavorful sweet that holds a special place among the famous sweets in Karnataka. This deep-fried delicacy is made with a thin, golden crust of refined or whole wheat flour, filled with a delicious mixture of grated coconut, jaggery or sugar, and cardamom. Sometimes, poppy seeds and dry fruits are added for extra richness. With its crunchy exterior and sweet, aromatic filling, Karjikai is a festive favorite, especially during Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi. Its delightful combination of textures and flavors makes it a must-try treat for sweet lovers.

9. Gasagase Payasa

Gasagase Payasa is a traditional Karnataka dessert known for its rich, nutty flavor and soothing properties. Made with poppy seeds, coconut, jaggery, and milk, this creamy and aromatic kheer has a unique taste that sets it apart from other sweets. The poppy seeds lend a subtle crunch and a mildly earthy flavor, while jaggery adds natural sweetness and depth. Often enjoyed warm or chilled, it is a popular choice during festivals and special occasions. With its comforting texture and delightful blend of ingredients, this dish is a perfect way to end a hearty meal on a sweet note.

10. Kajjaya

Kajjaya, also known as Adhirasam in some regions, is a traditional deep-fried sweet that is loved for its rich flavor and chewy texture. Made with rice flour, jaggery, and sesame seeds, this golden-brown delicacy has a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. The dough is prepared by simmering jaggery into a syrup, mixing it with rice flour, and allowing it to rest before shaping and frying. Often prepared during festivals like Deepavali and Navaratri, it is a festive favorite across Karnataka. With its crispy edges and soft, dense center, this sweet treat is an irresistible indulgence.

11. Karadantu

Karadantu is a unique and nutritious sweet that holds a special place among the famous sweets in Karnataka. Originating from the town of Gokak, this chewy delicacy is made with a blend of dried fruits, edible gum (karadantu), jaggery, and nuts. The mixture is slow-cooked to achieve a rich, sticky texture, making it both delicious and energy-boosting. Often enjoyed as a healthy treat, it is packed with essential nutrients and natural sweetness. Traditionally prepared during festivals and special occasions, this flavorful sweet is a must-try for those who love a mix of taste and health in every bite.

12. Rava Unde

Rava Unde, or Rava Laddu, is a simple yet delicious sweet that is a staple in Karnataka’s festive celebrations. Made with roasted semolina (rava), ghee, sugar, and cardamom, these laddus have a delightful aroma and a soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture. Often garnished with raisins and cashews, they add a crunchy contrast to the rich, buttery taste. This sweet is quick to prepare and is a favorite during festivals like Deepavali and Ugadi. With its light sweetness and rich flavor, Rava Unde is a timeless treat enjoyed by people of all ages.

13. Khasi/Dumrot Halwa

Khasi, also known as Dumrot Halwa or Ash Gourd Halwa, is a rich and decadent sweet from Karnataka’s culinary tradition. Made with grated ash gourd (white pumpkin), milk, ghee, and sugar, this halwa has a luscious texture and a delightful caramelized flavor. Slow-cooked to perfection, it is infused with cardamom and garnished with nuts, adding an aromatic touch and a slight crunch. Often prepared during festivals and auspicious occasions, this golden-hued dessert is a true indulgence. Its unique combination of mild sweetness and rich flavors makes it a must-try treat for those who love traditional sweets.

14. Avarebele Halwa

Avarebele Halwa is a unique and flavorful dessert that stands out among the famous sweets in Karnataka. Made from Avarebele (hyacinth beans), this halwa offers a distinct taste with a rich, creamy texture. Slow-cooked with milk, ghee, and sugar, it develops a deep, caramelized flavor that is both indulgent and aromatic. The addition of cardamom and dry fruits enhances its richness, making it a special treat during winter and festive occasions. This rare delicacy showcases Karnataka’s love for Avarebele, transforming the humble bean into a deliciously sweet delight that is truly one of a kind!

• Hayagreeva

Hayagreeva is a traditional and sacred sweet dish that holds a special place among the famous sweets in Karnataka. Made with cooked chana dal, jaggery, and ghee, this rich and flavorful dessert has a soft, pudding-like texture with a deep caramelized sweetness. It is often flavored with cardamom and garnished with dry fruits, enhancing its taste and aroma. Hayagreeva is especially popular among the Madhwa Brahmin community and is offered as naivedya (holy offering) to Lord Hayagriva. With its comforting texture and divine flavors, this classic sweet is a must-try for those who love Karnataka’s traditional desserts!

• Manohara

Manohara is a lesser-known yet delightful sweet that holds a special place in Karnataka’s traditional cuisine. Originating from North Karnataka, this unique treat is made by coating deep-fried, crispy besan (gram flour) rings or wheat flour balls with a thick layer of jaggery syrup. Once the syrup hardens, it creates a perfect balance of crunch and sweetness, making it an irresistible snack. Often prepared during festivals and special occasions, Manohara is loved for its rich taste and satisfying texture. This traditional sweet is a hidden gem in Karnataka’s dessert culture, making it one of the famous sweets in Karnataka.

• Peni

Peni is a delicate and crispy sweet that is widely enjoyed during festive occasions and celebrations. This flaky dessert, often compared to pheni or seviyan, is made by deep-frying thin layers of dough until golden and crispy. The fried strands are then generously dusted with powdered sugar or dipped in sugar syrup, enhancing their sweetness. Often served with warm milk and a sprinkle of cardamom, it creates a comforting and aromatic treat. Light yet indulgent, this crispy delight is truly one of the famous sweets in Karnataka.

• Balushahi

Balushahi is a rich and indulgent sweet that is widely loved for its crispy yet soft texture. This traditional delicacy is made by deep-frying dough made from maida (refined flour) and ghee, then soaking it in a fragrant sugar syrup that gives it a mildly sweet and slightly flaky bite. With its golden-brown crust and soft, melt-in-the-mouth interior, Balushahi is a festive favorite, often prepared for celebrations and special occasions. The addition of cardamom and a garnish of chopped nuts enhances its flavor, making it an irresistible treat. This classic dessert holds a special place among the famous sweets in Karnataka.

• Sweet Pongal

Sweet Pongal is a beloved festive delicacy that holds a special place in Karnataka’s traditional cuisine. Made with rice, moong dal, jaggery, and ghee, this dish has a rich, creamy texture and a naturally sweet flavor. It is often flavored with cardamom and garnished with cashews and raisins, adding a delightful crunch to every bite. Prepared during festivals like Makar Sankranti and Ugadi, it symbolizes prosperity and joy. The slow-cooking process enhances its aroma, making it a comforting and indulgent dessert. This classic dish is truly one of the famous sweets in Karnataka.

• Jangir

Jangir is a popular deep-fried sweet that holds a special place among the famous sweets in Karnataka. Made from a fermented batter of urad dal, this bright orange delicacy is shaped into intricate spirals and soaked in fragrant sugar syrup, giving it a juicy and syrupy texture. Similar to Jalebi but slightly thicker and softer, Jangir has a unique taste with a perfect balance of crispiness and sweetness. Often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions, this melt-in-the-mouth treat is a favorite among sweet lovers across Karnataka. Its rich flavor and delightful texture make it an irresistible indulgence!

Karnataka’s rich culinary heritage is best experienced through its famous sweets, each offering a unique taste, texture, and cultural significance. From crispy delights to melt-in-the-mouth treats, these sweets are an integral part of festivals, celebrations, and cherished traditions. At Club Mahindra Restaurants in Karnataka, skilled chefs prepare these authentic delicacies, bringing the true flavors of the region to your plate. If you wish to experience staying at these exotic restaurants, then Club Mahindra Membership enhances your travel and culinary experiences, letting you explore India’s diverse flavors while staying at some of the country’s finest resorts.