India is a land of diverse culinary traditions, and when it comes to vegetarian cookies, the flavors are just as vibrant and varied. Unlike the typical sweet cookies you might find elsewhere, Indian vegetarian cookie recipes often incorporate unique ingredients like cardamom, saffron, coconut, and nuts, creating delightful treats that are perfect for festive occasions or everyday snacking.
These cookies not only cater to vegetarian diets but also embrace the natural richness of Indian spices and flours, making them wholesome and delicious.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some wonderful Indian vegetarian cookie recipes that are easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you prefer crisp and crunchy or soft and chewy, these recipes have something for everyone.
Get ready to indulge in the sweet goodness of Indian cookies made with fresh, vegetarian ingredients!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Indian vegetarian cookies combine traditional spices and wholesome ingredients, offering a unique taste experience that stands out from typical cookie recipes. These cookies are:
- Rich in flavor: With aromatic spices like cardamom and nutmeg, every bite bursts with authentic Indian taste.
- Vegetarian-friendly: Made without eggs or dairy, these cookies are perfect for those following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.
- Nutritious: Using ingredients like whole wheat flour, nuts, and natural sweeteners, these cookies provide more nutritional value.
- Easy to customize: You can add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even experiment with gluten-free flours.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Whole wheat flour (Atta) | 1 cup | Provides a nutty flavor and fiber |
| Gram flour (Besan) | 1/2 cup | Adds crispness and richness |
| Powdered sugar | 3/4 cup | Use finely ground for smooth texture |
| Ghee (clarified butter) | 1/2 cup | For traditional flavor; substitute with coconut oil for vegan |
| Cardamom powder | 1 tsp | Essential Indian spice for aroma |
| Chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios) | 1/4 cup | Optional, for texture and taste |
| Saffron strands | Few strands | Soaked in 1 tbsp warm milk or water for color and fragrance |
| Baking powder | 1/4 tsp | Helps cookies rise slightly |
| Milk or plant-based milk | 2-3 tbsp | To bind the dough |
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters or knife
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Oven
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, gram flour, powdered sugar, cardamom powder, and baking powder. Stir well to evenly distribute.
- Add the ghee: Pour in the softened ghee and rub it into the flour mixture with your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add saffron: Stir in the saffron-soaked milk to infuse fragrance and color.
- Bind the dough: Gradually add the milk or plant-based milk, one tablespoon at a time, and knead gently until a soft but firm dough forms. Avoid over-kneading.
- Incorporate nuts: Fold in the chopped nuts gently for added texture and flavor.
- Roll out the dough: Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut shapes: Use cookie cutters or a knife to cut the dough into desired shapes.
- Bake: Place the cookies on the prepared tray, spacing them slightly apart. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Cool down: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
“For a vegan version, substitute ghee with coconut oil and use plant-based milk. You can also experiment with jaggery powder instead of sugar for a traditional Indian sweetness.”
- Try adding fennel seeds or nutmeg for different spice profiles.
- Use rice flour or oat flour to make gluten-free variants.
- Incorporate dried fruits like raisins or chopped dates for extra chewiness.
- For a richer taste, brush the cookies lightly with melted ghee before baking.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cookie approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 4.5 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Serving Suggestions
These Indian vegetarian cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of masala chai or spiced coffee. Serve them as a delightful snack during festivals like Diwali or as an afternoon treat with your family.
You can also pack them in lunchboxes or gift them in pretty jars for a personal touch.
For a festive platter, combine these cookies with other Indian sweets like Aloo Gobi Curry Veg Recipes of India Made Easy and Cauliflower Soup Veg Recipes of India You Must Try to offer a diverse range of flavors that celebrate Indian vegetarian cuisine.
Conclusion
Indian vegetarian cookies offer a wonderful blend of traditional spices and wholesome ingredients that make them both delicious and nourishing. These recipes are easy to follow and allow you to enjoy authentic Indian flavors in a cookie form, perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these cookies provide a great way to explore Indian culinary heritage while sticking to a vegetarian diet.
Don’t forget to experiment with different nuts, flours, and spices to create your own signature cookie. For more exciting vegetarian recipes, check out our extensive collection including A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.
Happy baking and enjoy the sweet taste of India!
📖 Recipe Card: Indian Vegetable Cookies
Description: These savory Indian vegetable cookies combine aromatic spices and finely chopped vegetables for a unique snack. Perfect for tea time or as a healthy treat.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chickpea flour (besan)
- 2 tablespoons melted ghee or oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2-3 tablespoons water (as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a bowl, mix whole wheat flour, chickpea flour, and spices.
- Add grated carrot, spinach, and chopped onion; mix well.
- Pour in melted ghee and combine until crumbly.
- Add water gradually to form a firm dough.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut into desired cookie shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 110 kcal per cookie | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 14 g
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