Master The Art Of Making Milk Cake With These 4 Easy Steps

This delectable treat is made by simmering milk until it curdles and then cooking the curds with sugar and cardamom until the mixture thickens into a dense, creamy confection. Often garnished with chopped nuts and occasionally infused with saffron for added depth, milk cake has a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth consistency that contrasts delightfully with the crunchy nut toppings. It's a luxurious dessert that's perfect for celebrations, festivals, or as a special indulgence.

Milk cake, also known as kalakand, is a popular Indian sweet made from milk, sugar, and cardamom, with a rich, fudgy texture. Here’s a simple recipe to make delicious milk cake at home:

1. Ingredients

– 4 cups full-fat milk
– 1/4 cup lemon juice or vinegar (to curdle the milk)
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, for garnish)
– A pinch of saffron strands (optional, for color and flavor)

2. Instructions

Step 1- Prepare the Paneer:

– In a large pan, bring the milk to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
– Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and gradually add the lemon juice or vinegar, stirring continuously. The milk will curdle and separate into curds and whey.
– Remove from heat and strain the curds through a muslin cloth or fine sieve to remove the whey. Rinse the curds under cold water to remove any acidic taste from the lemon juice or vinegar. Squeeze out excess water and set aside.

Step 2- Cook the Milk Cake:

– Heat ghee in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
– Add the curds (paneer) to the pan and cook, stirring continuously, until it starts to dry out and begins to form a lump.
– Add sugar and continue cooking, stirring constantly. The mixture will start to thicken and come together. It will also start to leave the sides of the pan.
– Stir in cardamom powder and saffron strands (if using). Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture becomes a thick, fudgy consistency.

Step 3- Set the Milk Cake:

– Grease a tray or plate with a little ghee.
– Pour the hot milk mixture into the greased tray and spread it evenly.
– Press down with a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the surface and flatten it.
– Garnish with chopped nuts if desired.
– Allow the milk cake to cool completely and set. It will firm up as it cools.

Step 4- Cut and Serve:

– Once set, cut the milk cake into squares or pieces.
– Serve and enjoy!

Milk cake is a rich and indulgent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or as a sweet ending to a meal. Enjoy your homemade milk cake!