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Gulab Jamun in Kunafa Nests

Elegant Gulab Jamun in Kunafa Nests – A Stunning Indian Fusion Dessert


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

Gulab Jamun in Kunafa Nests combines the best of Indian and Middle Eastern desserts in one show-stopping creation. Soft, syrup-soaked Gulab Jamuns rest in crispy, golden Kunafa nests, garnished with pistachios, rose petals, and saffron for a luxurious finish. This fusion dessert is perfect for weddings, Diwali celebrations, or elegant dinner parties—beautiful, fragrant, and irresistibly delicious.


Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Gulab Jamun:
  • 1 cup milk powder
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons ghee
  • ¼ cup milk (as needed for kneading)
  • Oil or ghee for frying
  • For the Sugar Syrup:
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 45 cardamom pods, crushed
  • A few strands of saffron (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon rose water
  • For the Kunafa Nests:
  • 200g Kunafa (kataifi) dough
  • ½ cup melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons sugar syrup (for binding)
  • For Garnish:
  • Crushed pistachios
  • Dried rose petals
  • Saffron threads

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sugar Syrup: Combine sugar, water, and crushed cardamom in a saucepan. Boil until slightly sticky, then add saffron and rose water. Set aside to cool.
  2. Make the Gulab Jamun Dough: In a bowl, mix milk powder, flour, baking powder, and ghee. Gradually add milk to form a soft dough. Rest for 10 minutes.
  3. Fry the Gulab Jamuns: Shape smooth balls and deep-fry in ghee or oil on medium heat until golden. Soak in warm sugar syrup for 30 minutes.
  4. Prepare the Kunafa Nests: Shred Kunafa dough, mix with melted butter, and form small nests in a muffin tray.
  5. Bake the Nests: Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 10–12 minutes until crisp and golden. Brush lightly with sugar syrup.
  6. Assemble the Dessert: Place one Gulab Jamun in each Kunafa nest. Garnish with pistachios, rose petals, and saffron. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use clarified butter or ghee for a richer flavor.
  • Do not oversoak Gulab Jamuns or they may become mushy.
  • Always soak Gulab Jamuns in warm syrup for best absorption.
  • Assemble the nests just before serving to maintain crispness.
  • Kunafa nests can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking & Frying
  • Cuisine: Indian Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 nest
  • Calories: 285
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 110mg
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Gulab Jamun in Kunafa Nests, Indian Fusion Dessert, Kunafa Dessert, Middle Eastern Desserts, Indian Sweet Recipes, Gulab Jamun Recipe, Party Desserts, Festive Desserts, Indian Wedding Desserts, Diwali Dessert Recipes