Healthy Baked Gujiya (Karanji)Veg
Enjoy a healthier twist on a festive classic with these delicious Baked Gujiyas. Perfect for Diwali or Holi, these crisp, golden pockets are filled with a rich mixture of khoya, desiccated coconut, crunchy nuts, and aromatic cardamom. Instead of deep-frying, this recipe uses the oven to achieve a perfectly light and satisfying crunch. Serve these guilt-free Indian dessert empanadas to your family and friends for a wholesome treat that’s easy to prepare and delightful to devour.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
Refined flour (Maida): 1/2 cup
1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Maida)
1 cup Whole Wheat Flour
A pinch Salt
3 tsp Clarified Butter (Ghee)
as needed Water
For the Filling:
Khoya/Mawa: 150 grams
1 cup Coconut (desiccated)
Caster/Powdered sugar: 1/3 cup (can increase to 1/2 cup for more sweetness)
2 tbsp Almonds (Chopped)
2 tbsp Cashew Nuts (Chopped)
as needed Raisins (Chopped)
A pinch Cardamom Powder
Instructions
Step 1— Prepare the Dough
1
Mix refined flour, whole wheat flour, a pinch of salt, and melted ghee in a bowl.
2
Rub the ghee into the flour until it reaches a breadcrumb-like texture.
3
Gradually add water to knead a soft dough, similar to the consistency of a puri dough.
4
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest.
Step 2— Prepare the Filling
1
Heat khoya or mawa in a frying pan until it is soft and comes together.
2
Allow the khoya to cool completely to room temperature.
3
Once cooled, add desiccated coconut, caster or powdered sugar, chopped almonds, chopped cashew nuts, chopped raisins, and a pinch of cardamom powder.
4
Mix everything together well.
Step 3— Assemble and Shape
1
Divide the rested dough into equal portions.
2
Apply a little melted ghee to the rolling surface.
3
Roll out each portion into a round puri shape—it should be neither too thick nor too thin.
4
Use a round cutter for uniform sizes if desired.
5
Apply a little water on the edges of the dough circle.
6
Place a teaspoon of the filling in the center, fold it over, and seal the edges firmly, ensuring there are no air bubbles.
7
Create a decorative pattern by pinching the edge and pulling it inward with your thumb.
Step 4— Baking
1
Place the prepared gujiyas on a well-greased baking tray.
2
Brush the top of each gujiya with melted ghee.
3
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for 15-20 minutes, checking at the 15-minute mark to ensure they are perfectly baked.
