Diwali is synonymous with vibrant celebrations, and of course, an array of mouth-watering sweets. However, many people today are opting for healthier alternatives in their festive indulgence, avoiding ingredients like ghee, which is commonly used in traditional sweets. Whether for health reasons, dietary restrictions, or simply a preference for lighter options, ghee-free Diwali sweets are becoming increasingly popular.
Here, we explore 15 Diwali sweets without ghee, perfect for those who want to enjoy the festive spirit without compromising on taste or health. These sweets offer all the richness and sweetness of traditional recipes but without the heaviness of ghee. Let’s dive into these delicious and lighter alternatives!
15 Diwali Sweets Without Ghee
What if you’re looking for ghee-free alternatives this year? Here are 15 Diwali sweets without ghee that are light, healthy, and full of festive flavor. Let’s dive into the exciting world of Diwali desserts that skip the ghee but keep all the flavor!
1. Coconut Ladoo
Coconut ladoo is a simple, tasty, and healthier alternative to traditional ghee-laden sweets. These ladoos are made using fresh or desiccated coconut and condensed milk. What makes them ideal for Diwali is their ease of preparation and the absence of ghee. The naturally sweet flavor of coconut combined with a hint of cardamom makes it a perfect choice for those looking for a light, indulgent treat.
✨ Tip: Add a touch of saffron to enhance the color and flavor, giving these ladoos a royal twist.
2. Tilgul
Tilgul is a popular Maharashtrian sweet made from sesame seeds and jaggery. Traditionally associated with the Makar Sankranti festival, tilgul has also become a favorite during Diwali. Its natural ingredients and absence of ghee make it a healthy choice. The combination of sesame and jaggery provides warmth and energy, making it perfect for the cooler weather around Diwali.
🔥 Health Insight: Sesame seeds are rich in calcium, iron, and fiber, making tilgul a nutritious and delicious option.
3. Baked Gujiya
Gujiya is a staple in most Indian households during Diwali. However, the traditional method of frying gujiya in ghee can be heavy. A ghee-free and healthier alternative is the baked version. By baking the gujiyas instead of frying, you retain the crispiness and flavor without the added calories from ghee. These baked gujiyas are stuffed with a mixture of khoya (reduced milk solids), nuts, and desiccated coconut.
🌟 Pro Tip: For a vegan twist, you can substitute khoya with coconut or nut paste and still enjoy the rich flavor.
4. Dates and Nut Rolls
Dates and nut rolls are an ideal Diwali sweet for health-conscious individuals. This sweet is packed with the natural sweetness of dates, without the need for ghee or any artificial sweeteners. The mixture of dates, almonds, cashews, and pistachios makes these rolls a powerhouse of nutrition and a guilt-free indulgence.
💡 Nutritional Fact: Dates are rich in iron, potassium, and fiber, making these rolls not only tasty but also great for boosting energy levels during the festive season.
5. Kesar Peda (Without Ghee)
Pedas are one of the most cherished Indian sweets, but they usually contain a good amount of ghee. This ghee-free version uses milk, sugar, and saffron to create a deliciously creamy peda, without compromising on taste. The saffron lends a beautiful golden hue and a rich flavor, making these pedas a perfect offering during Diwali pooja and celebrations.
🎨 Creative Tip: Use edible silver foil (varq) to give these pedas a traditional and elegant look.
6. Jalebi (Without Ghee)
Jalebi is a classic Diwali sweet, known for its crispy texture and syrupy sweetness. While traditionally fried in ghee, you can opt for a ghee-free version by using any neutral oil. The syrupy goodness remains intact, and the flavor remains just as satisfying, making it a great choice for those looking to avoid ghee without giving up their favorite Diwali treat.
🍂 Fun Fact: Jalebis taste best when served hot, especially with a side of rabri (sweetened condensed milk).
7. Baked Shakarpara
Shakarpara, a crunchy and lightly sweetened snack, is a favorite during Diwali. By baking the dough instead of frying it in ghee, you can enjoy this delightful snack in a lighter and healthier form. The baked version retains the crunch and sweetness but without the additional fat from ghee, making it perfect for guilt-free snacking during the festive season.
🍬 Flavor Twist: You can add a dash of cinnamon or cardamom to enhance the flavor profile.
8. Rice Kheer (Without Ghee)
Kheer is a staple dessert during Indian festivals. This creamy and delicious rice pudding can be made without ghee by simply boiling rice with milk and sugar, flavored with cardamom and saffron. The slow cooking process gives the kheer its rich, creamy texture without the need for ghee. Top it with chopped nuts for added crunch.
🍶 Tip: Use almond or coconut milk for a vegan variation that’s equally delicious.
9. Chocolate Barfi
Chocolate barfi is a modern take on the traditional Indian sweet. This ghee-free dessert is made by mixing milk powder, cocoa powder, and sugar. The chocolate flavor makes it a hit, especially with kids. The absence of ghee does not take away from its creamy texture, making it a perfect fusion sweet for Diwali.
🍫 Pro Tip: You can add a layer of crushed nuts or sprinkle some sea salt for a unique flavor twist.
10. Mysore Pak (Low-Fat Version)
While Mysore Pak is traditionally made with copious amounts of ghee, a low-fat, ghee-free version can be made by substituting the ghee with a neutral cooking oil. This version retains the crumbly, melt-in-the-mouth texture, while being much lighter on the stomach. It’s a great option for those who want to enjoy the richness of Mysore Pak without the heaviness of ghee.
🎁 Serving Suggestion: Cut into small squares and pack them in decorative boxes to gift during Diwali.
11. Besan Ladoo (Ghee-Free)
Besan ladoos are traditionally made with ghee, but you can easily make a lighter version by using oil instead. These gram flour-based ladoos are flavored with cardamom and sweetened with powdered sugar, making them an easy, ghee-free option that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
🍪 Tip: Roast the besan on low heat for a longer time to get a rich, nutty flavor without the need for ghee.
12. Phirni (Without Ghee)
Phirni is a creamy rice pudding that is often made during festivals. The traditional recipe does not require ghee, making it an ideal choice for those looking for ghee-free sweets. Phirni is made by cooking ground rice with milk, sugar, and cardamom, and it is usually served chilled in earthen bowls.
🌸 Pro Tip: Garnish with rose petals and pistachios for a beautiful, festive presentation.
13. Moong Dal Halwa (Without Ghee)
Moong dal halwa is a delicious and indulgent dessert often made during Diwali. In a ghee-free version, the moong dal is roasted in oil or butter substitutes, giving it a similar texture and taste. The flavor of cardamom and saffron shines through, making it a festive favorite without the heaviness of ghee.
🌿 Health Insight: Moong dal is rich in protein, making this a nutritious sweet option for Diwali.
14. Rasgulla
Rasgulla is a Bengali sweet that doesn’t require ghee at all. Made from chhena (Indian cottage cheese) and soaked in sugar syrup, rasgullas are light, spongy, and a perfect addition to the Diwali sweet platter. They are naturally free of ghee and offer a refreshing break from heavier sweets.
💧 Tip: For an extra special touch, flavor the sugar syrup with rose water or saffron.
15. Nankhatai (Without Ghee)
Nankhatai, a traditional Indian shortbread, can be made without ghee by using a plant-based fat like coconut oil. These crumbly, melt-in-the-mouth cookies are flavored with cardamom and a touch of sugar, making them a light, ghee-free option for your Diwali celebrations.
🍪 Pro Tip: Add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra aromatic touch.
Conclusion: Incorporating ghee-free sweets into your Diwali celebrations not only makes them healthier but also ensures that everyone, including those with dietary restrictions, can join in the indulgence. These 15 Diwali sweets without ghee are packed with flavor, tradition, and the spirit of the festival, ensuring that you don’t miss out on the festive fun. So this Diwali, light up your home and your palate with these delicious sweets that bring joy without the guilt.
