Bread Halwa is a rich and delicious Indian dessert made using bread slices, ghee, milk, sugar, and dry fruits. It is an ideal way to turn leftover bread into a decadent sweet treat. This halwa is quick to prepare and perfect for festivals, celebrations, or an indulgent after-meal dessert.
Bread Halwa is a fusion Indian sweet dish, somewhat like a bread pudding but cooked in the traditional Indian halwa style. It is popular in South Indian households and is especially served during weddings and festivals.
Ingredients for Bread Halwa
Here’s a list of all the ingredients you’ll need to make Bread Halwa at home:
- Bread slices – 6 to 8 (white or brown bread)
- Ghee (clarified butter) – 4 to 5 tablespoons
- Milk – 1.5 cups (full cream preferred)
- Sugar – ½ cup (adjust to taste)
- Cardamom powder – ½ teaspoon
- Cashew nuts – 10 to 12
- Raisins – 10 to 15 (optional)
- Saffron strands – a pinch (optional)
How to Make Bread Halwa – Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Cut and Fry the Bread
- Cut the bread slices into small squares or triangles.
- Heat 3 tbsp of ghee in a non-stick pan.
- Fry the bread pieces on medium flame until golden brown and crisp.
- Remove and keep aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Milk Mixture
- In the same pan, add milk and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Add sugar and stir until it dissolves completely.
- Add cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using).
Step 3: Combine Bread and Milk
- Add the fried bread pieces into the hot milk mixture.
- Stir gently and allow the bread to soak the milk.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes on low flame, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
Step 4: Add Remaining Ghee and Nuts
- In a separate pan, heat the remaining ghee.
- Roast cashew nuts and raisins until golden.
- Pour this over the halwa mixture and give it a final mix.
Step 5: Serve Hot
- Serve the Bread Halwa hot or warm.
- Garnish with a few more nuts or a dash of saffron.
Tips for Perfect Bread Halwa
- Use full-fat milk for a creamier and richer halwa.
- Toast bread in ghee instead of oil or butter for authentic taste.
- Customize sweetness to your preference by adjusting sugar quantity.
- You can blend the bread crumbs for a smoother halwa texture.
- For extra richness, add khoya or condensed milk.
Nutritional Value (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 220–250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Proteins: 5g
- Fats: 10g
- Sugar: 18g
Bread Halwa is the perfect comfort dessert that turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether it’s a festive gathering, a family dinner, or a sweet craving, this dish never fails to satisfy. With its rich texture, aromatic flavour, and heart warming taste, Bread Halwa deserves a spot in your go-to dessert recipes.
Try this Bread Halwa recipe today and let us know how it turned out!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What bread should I use for bread halwa?
White or brown bread both work. Cut the slices into small squares or triangles and fry them in ghee until golden and crisp before adding them to the milk.
How can I make the halwa richer and creamier?
Use full-fat milk and toast the bread in ghee rather than oil or butter. For extra richness, stir in some khoya or condensed milk.
How long do I cook the bread in the milk?
Cook it on a low flame for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring now and then so it does not burn. Finish with cashews and raisins roasted in ghee, and serve the halwa hot or warm.
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