Caramalized Suji Halwa (Semolina Pudding)

User profile image
Leena Kohli (@leenakohli)

Caramelized Suji Halwa – A Rich, Festive Indian Semolina Dessert

*I first tasted this version of Suji Halwa at my aunt’s house — and I was instantly hooked. It wasn’t the usual suji halwa (semolina pudding) we grew up eating. The moment I took a bite, I knew something was...

Caramalized Suji Halwa (Semolina Pudding) recipe
Prep Time
30min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
50min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)

To Soak

  • suji (semolina)
    suji (semolina)
    1cup
  • water
    water
    1 1/2cups

For the Halwa

  • ghee (clarified butter)
    ghee (clarified butter)
    3/4cup
  • sugar
    sugar
    3/4cup
  • water (for caramelizing)
    water (for caramelizing)
    3tbsp
  • sliced almonds (or any nuts of your choice)
    sliced almonds (or any nuts of your choice)
    20

How to make Caramalized Suji Halwa (Semolina Pudding)

Soak the Suji

  1. Step 1

    In a mixing bowl, combine suji with water. Let it soak for 20–30 minutes until the grains soften and absorb most of the water.

    Step 1.1: In a mixing bowl, combine suji with water

Caramelize the Sugar

  1. Step 1

    In a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai, heat the ghee on low to medium heat.

  2. Step 2

    Add the sugar along with water. Stir continuously until the sugar melts and turns into a golden caramel.

    Step 2.1: Add the sugar along with water
    Step 2.2: Add the sugar along with water
    Step 2.3: Add the sugar along with water
    Step 2.4: Add the sugar along with water
  3. Step 3

    Keep a close eye as caramel turns from golden to burnt in seconds, and overcooking can lead to bitterness.

Add the Soaked Suji

  1. Step 1

    Switch off the heat and carefully pour in the soaked suji along with any remaining water. Be cautious as the caramel will bubble and splatter.

    Step 3.1: Switch off the heat and carefully pour in the soaked suji along with any remaining water

Cook the Halwa

  1. Step 1

    Turn the heat back on to low-medium and stir the mixture continuously.

    Step 4.1: Turn the heat back on to low-medium and stir the mixture continuously
  2. Step 2

    Cook until it thickens, starts to leave the sides of the pan, and the ghee begins to separate.

  3. Step 3

    Add the sliced almonds (or your preferred nuts) and mix well. Turn off the heat. The halwa will continue to firm up as it cools.

    Step 4.1: Add the sliced almonds (or your preferred nuts) and mix well
    Step 4.2: Add the sliced almonds (or your preferred nuts) and mix well

Serve

  1. Step 1

    Spoon the halwa into bowls or plates and serve warm. Garnish with extra nuts, if desired.

    Step 5.1: Spoon the halwa into bowls or plates and serve warm

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

528.9kcal (26.45%)

Protein

6.1g (12.12%)

Carbs

34.1g (12.39%)

Sugars

18.8g (37.5%)

Healthy Fat

16.7g

Unhealthy Fat

29.4g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Add cashews, pistachios, or golden raisins in place of almonds for different textures and flavors.

  2. Stop caramelization as soon as it reaches a rich golden color to avoid bitterness.

  3. For a softer halwa, add an extra ½–1 cup of water while soaking the suji.

  4. For a silkier result, you can lightly blend the soaked suji before cooking.

  5. Mould the halwa using greased bowls or cups to serve in neat shapes—perfect for celebrations.

  6. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat with a splash of water or milk before serving.

FAQS

  1. Can I use other types of nuts instead of almonds?

    Yes, you can use cashews, pistachios, or even golden raisins for different textures and flavors.

  2. How do I prevent the caramel from burning?

    Caramalize sugar on low-medium heat and keep a close eye on the caramel and stop cooking as soon as it reaches a rich golden colour. Overcooking can lead to bitterness.

  3. Can I make the halwa softer?

    Yes, for a softer halwa, add an extra ½–1 cup of water while soaking the suji.

  4. How should I store leftover halwa?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat with a splash of water or milk before serving.

  5. Can I blend the suji for a smoother texture?

    Yes, you can lightly blend the soaked suji before cooking for a silkier result.

Loading reviews...

leenakohli's profile picture
instagram

Leena Kohli

(@leenakohli)

Elevate your confidence through the magic of home cooking with my easy-to-follow recipes 👩‍🍳✨...

chefadora
© 2025 Chefadora Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved

Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia