Chana Dal Halwa: Slow-Simmered North Indian Dessert You Can’t Miss

By Garima Johar

February 4, 2026

Chana dal halwa is a traditional North Indian halwa, typically made for festivities and special occasions. To make the mouth-melting halwa at home, follow this five-step recipe and serve hot topped with nuts.

Ingredients

1 cup chana dal 1/2 cup ghee 1 cup milk 1/2 cup sugar 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder A pinch of saffron

Step 1

Rinse and soak chana dal. Grind it into a fine paste.

Step 2

Heat some ghee and roast the ground chana dal. Stir to prevent any lumps.

Step 3

Cook the chana dal paste till golden brown. Add milk and sugar and stir well.

Step 4

Simmer on low heat till the halwa thickens. Add cardamom powder and saffron and mix well.

Step 5

Garnish with chopped nuts and serve hot.