Custrd is out now on the App Store and Google Play — Try it free for 7 days →
Back to recipes

Gulab Jamun

Soft, spongy milk solids dumplings soaked in fragrant rose and cardamom syrup. A beloved Indian dessert that's crispy outside and melt-in-mouth tender inside.

Total time
45 min
Servings
12
Calories
245
Protein
4g
Gulab Jamun
indianvegetariandessertfriedmilk-based

Ingredients

12 items — tap to check off

Missing one? Custrd suggests a swap that works.

Open the app

Instructions

  1. Step 1

    In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.

  2. Step 2

    Add cardamom pods and saffron strands. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

  3. Step 3

    Remove from heat and stir in rose water. Set aside to cool completely.

  4. Step 4

    In a bowl, combine milk powder, flour, baking powder, and cardamom powder.

  5. Step 5

    Add 2 tablespoons melted ghee and mix with your fingers until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

  6. Step 6

    Gradually add milk, kneading gently until a soft, pliable dough forms. Do not overwork.

  7. Step 7

    Divide dough into 12 equal portions and roll each into a smooth ball.

  8. Step 8

    Heat ghee or oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pan to 325°F, or until a small ball of dough sizzles gently.

  9. Step 9

    Carefully add 4-5 gulab jamun at a time. Fry on medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown all over.

  10. Step 10

    Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels briefly.

  11. Step 11

    Immediately transfer hot gulab jamun into the cooled syrup.

  12. Step 12

    Let soak for at least 1 hour before serving at room temperature. They will absorb the syrup and become soft and spongy.

Tools you’ll need

  • medium saucepan
  • large mixing bowl
  • deep heavy-bottomed pan or kadai
  • candy thermometer
  • slotted spoon
  • paper towels
  • shallow serving bowl

Cook smarter

Get matched recipes for what’s in your fridge

Custrd is an iPhone and Android app that finds real recipes from the ingredients you already have. No more grocery-list aspirations. Try it free for 7 days.