Raksha Bandhan is more than a sacred thread—it’s an emotion tied with tradition, affection, and the timeless joy of festive food. And what better way to mark this beautiful occasion than with an indulgent Rajasthani treat that tastes like celebration in every bite—Malai Ghevar.
Whether you’re steeped in Rajasthani heritage or a sweet lover searching for the next festive delicacy, Jaipuri Malai Ghevar is the perfect dessert to elevate your Rakhi thali. This disc-shaped, honeycomb-textured mithai is not only stunning to look at but also a flavor-packed fusion of crispiness, sweetness, and creamy richness.
Let’s dive into the story, making, and serving of this traditional masterpiece.
In this Article
What is Ghevar?
Ghevar is a traditional Rajasthani dessert prepared especially during monsoon festivals like Teej and Raksha Bandhan. It’s a crispy, deep-fried disc made using a refined flour batter that is carefully poured into hot ghee or oil. Once golden and airy, it is soaked in sugar syrup and crowned with toppings like rabri (thickened milk) or mawa.
The dessert originated in Jaipur and is synonymous with festive gifting, especially between brothers and sisters during Raksha Bandhan.
Check Out: Beautiful Bond, Perfect Timing: When is Raksha Bandhan 2025? Date, Muhurat & Rituals Explained
What is Special About Jaipuri Malai Ghevar?
Jaipuri Ghevar is known for its:
- Porous, honeycomb structure
- Golden, crispy texture
- Delicate layering of sweetened milk (rabri)
- Garnish of slivered pistachios, almonds, and saffron strands
The traditional version is made in special metal molds, but the good news is—you can make a close-to-authentic version at home using a regular deep pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ghevar:
- 1 cup refined flour (maida)
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/2 cup chilled water or milk
- 2 cups ice-cold water (to thin the batter)
- Ghee or oil for frying
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- A few strands of saffron
For the Malai (Rabri):
- 1 litre full-fat milk
- 2 tbsp sugar
- Cardamom powder
- Chopped pistachios & almonds
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Jaipuri Malai Ghevar
Step 1: Prepare the Ghevar Batter
- Mix flour and ghee until crumbly.
- Gradually add chilled water to form a runny batter.
- Whisk well to remove all lumps and achieve a pouring consistency.
Step 2: Fry the Ghevar Discs
- Heat ghee in a deep kadhai. Use a ring mold or pour in the center gently.
- Let the batter rise and bubble. Repeat pouring batter in the center for layered texture.
- Once golden and crisp, remove and drain excess oil.
Step 3: Dip in Sugar Syrup
- Prepare a one-string sugar syrup with cardamom and saffron.
- Dip or spoon the syrup over the fried ghevar while still warm.
Step 4: Top with Malai
- Boil milk for rabri, reduce to half while stirring.
- Add sugar, cardamom, and nuts. Let it cool.
- Generously top the ghevar with rabri before serving.
3 Popular Variations of Ghevar You Can Try
- Plain Ghevar – Just sugar syrup, simple and satisfying.
- Malai Ghevar – Ghevar topped with creamy rabri and nuts (most loved!).
- Mawa Ghevar – Ghevar layered with sweetened khoya (dried milk solids).
Why Malai Ghevar is Perfect for Raksha Bandhan
In Rajasthan, uncles traditionally gift Ghevar to their sisters during Raksha Bandhan and Teej. Its rich taste and festive presentation make it a centerpiece of Rakhi celebrations. Making it at home brings not just flavors but memories and tradition to your table.
Tips for First-Timers:
- Use ice-cold batter for a porous texture.
- Always pour batter from a height into hot ghee.
- Soak in syrup lightly to avoid sogginess.
- Serve immediately after topping with rabri for best taste and texture.
Preparing Jaipuri Malai Ghevar at home this Raksha Bandhan isn’t just about making a dessert—it’s about embracing tradition, creating joy, and celebrating sibling love with a touch of homemade sweetness.
So this Raksha Bandhan 2025, surprise your brother or sister with a plate of warm, golden Ghevar—handmade and filled with love.