Nankhatai is a popular Indian cookie that is light, buttery, and mildly sweet. With a soft, crumbly texture and a rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor, Nankhatai has earned its place as a beloved treat during festivals, tea time, and as a simple snack. It is made with a blend of all-purpose flour, semolina, sugar, ghee, and cardamom, offering a unique balance of sweetness and aromatic spice. The addition of semolina gives it a slight crunch, while the ghee ensures a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience. This easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Nankhatai: Traditional Indian Shortbread Cookies
Published on
December 7, 2024 | In
Cookies, Bars, BiscottiEthnic Specialties
By
Home Baking Association |
-
- Cook Time
- Minutes
-
- Yield
- 1214
- 12-14 cookies
Recipe Rating
- (0 /5)
- 0 ratings
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup semolina
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter), softened
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp milk (or as needed)
- Chopped pistachios or almonds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, semolina, cardamom powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream the ghee and sugar: In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the ghee and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed ghee and sugar mixture. Use your hands to gently mix and knead the dough. If the dough feels too dry, add milk a tablespoon at a time until it comes together into a smooth dough. It should not be too soft or sticky.
- Shape the cookies: Take small portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls, about 1-inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking tray, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press down slightly on each ball to flatten it. You can also use your fingers to create a small indentation in the center for a decorative touch.
- Garnish (optional): Press a small piece of chopped pistachio or almond into the center of each cookie for a decorative and flavorful touch.
- Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn a light golden brown.
- Cool and enjoy: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Enjoy with a cup of tea or as a sweet treat anytime!
- Servings : 12-14
- Recipe Type : Cookies & BarsEthnic Specialties
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Home Baking Association
The Home Baking Association (HBA) web site is a valuable resource for educators, parents, community service volunteers, scratch-bakers and anyone else interested in baking. Esteemed members of the baking community, ...
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