Barfi is one of the most loved traditional sweets in Pakistani and Indian homes. This easy barfi recipe is soft, rich, and melts in your mouth — the kind of mithai that instantly brings back memories of weddings, Eid, and family gatherings.
If you’re planning a full daawat menu, you can pair this sweet with my flavorful Chicken Yakhni Pulao for the perfect combination.
What makes this barfi recipe special is that it’s simple, quick, and made with easily available ingredients like ricotta cheese and condensed milk. As a result, you don’t need to make khoya from scratch, which saves both time and effort.
Whether you’re making it for guests or simply craving something sweet, this recipe will give you perfect, bakery-style barfi every time — from my kitchen dil se.
What is Barfi?
Barfi is a milk-based dessert with a fudge-like texture, made by cooking milk solids and sugar until thick, then setting and cutting into pieces.
It is especially popular during festivals like Eid and Diwali, and comes in many variations like coconut, pista, chocolate, and besan barfi.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make (no complicated steps)
- Uses simple ingredients
- Rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet
- Great for gifting or special occasions
- Beginner-friendly recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Powdered milk
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Unsalted butter
- Ricotta cheese
- Sugar (adjust to taste)
- Green cardamom powder (elaichi)
Cardamom gives that classic desi mithai aroma — don’t skip it!
How to Make Barfi (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare the Base
In a mixing bowl, combine powdered milk and condensed milk. Mix well until smooth.
2. Melt the Butter
In a pan, melt butter on low heat.
3. Add Ricotta Cheese
Add ricotta cheese to the melted butter and cook while stirring continuously.
4. Combine Everything
Now add the milk mixture and sugar. Keep stirring so it doesn’t stick.
5. Cook Until Thick
Cook until the mixture thickens and starts leaving the sides of the pan (this is the key step!).
6. Add Flavor
Mix in cardamom powder for that authentic flavor.
7. Set the Barfi
Transfer to a greased tray, spread evenly, and let it cool.
8. Cut & Serve
Once set, cut into squares or diamonds and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Barfi
- Cook on low to medium heat to avoid burning
- Keep stirring — this prevents lumps
- Don’t overcook or it will become hard
- Let it cool completely before cutting
- Use parchment paper for easy removal
When to Serve Barfi
This sweet is perfect for:
- Eid celebrations
- Weddings & daawats
- Tea-time dessert
- Gift boxes for friends & family
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container
- Keeps well for 4–5 days at room temperature
- Refrigerate for longer shelf life
- Bring to room temp before serving for best texture
FAQs
Why is my barfi not setting?
It likely needs more cooking time. The mixture should be thick before setting.
Can I reduce sugar?
Yes! Adjust sugar based on your taste preference.
Can I freeze barfi?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw before serving.
Can I make it without ricotta cheese?
Yes, you can use khoya (mawa), which is the traditional ingredient.
👉 Try my Palak Gosht (Shadiyon Wala Style)
👉 Pair it with Chicken Yakhni Pulao for a full daawat menu
More Desi Recipes
If you love traditional flavors, you’ll also enjoy:
- My viral-style Chikar Cholay (perfect savory pairing)
- Classic Chicken Karahi for a full daawat spread
Barfi
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Spatula
- Pot
- Whisker
- Measuring Cup
Ingredients
- 2 Cups Powdered milk
- 28 Oz Sweetened condensed milk
- 240 g Unsalted butter 2 – ¼ lb
- 32 Oz Ricotta cheese
- 1 Cup Sugar or to taste
- 1/2 Tsp Green cardamom (sabz ilaichi) powder
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, add powdered milk, sweetened condensed milk and mix well. Keep it aside.
- In a pot, take 1/4 lb (120g) of butter first, let it melt.
- Add the ricotta cheese in the melted butter. Stir using spatula until butter and ricotta are combined together
- Next add the milk mixture (powdered milk & condensd milk) and keep stirring. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook.
- Add cardamom powder, mix well. Scrape the pan from sides occasionally.
- Add sugar, as required and keep cooking on LOW heat.
- Add the rest of 120 grams of buuter and cook. Melt the butter and cook on LOW heat. Adding butter at this time will enhance the texture of barfi and make it more flavorful.
- Keep stirring and cook until the mixture forms a combined shape that moves together when stirred. This procees can take upto 15-20 mins or until it thickens.
- Place the parchment paper in a dish and pour the barfi mixture. Spread it out evenly. Let it cool, and sprinkle almonds and pistachios ad required.
- Cut into square pieces and enjoy!
Video
Notes
Tried this recipe?
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