By Aditi Saraswat
November 5, 2026
Diwali mithai brings together a range of textures, from the fine, flaky layers of soan papdi to the soft bite of kaju katli and syrup-soaked gulab jamun. Here are five traditional Diwali sweets that add variety to the festive spread and also make thoughtful gifts to share with your family and friends.
Made with cashew powder and sugar syrup, kaju katli has a smooth, light texture and a subtle nutty flavour. Its diamond shape makes it a popular choice.
Besan ladoo gets its distinct fragrance from gram flour that is roasted slowly in ghee. Sugar and cardamom add sweetness to it, while chopped nuts add a little crunch in every bite.
These are soft, round balls that are fried until they turn deep golden and soaked in cardamom-scented sugar syrup. They have rich, syrupy centres that make them a loved choice after festive meals.
Synonymous with Diwali festivities, soan papdi is loved for its flaky, thread-like texture; it is made by working a sweetened gram flour mixture, turning it into fine strands. Cardamom and pistachios add aroma and crunch to this.
Coconut barfi blends grated coconut, sugar and milk to make a soft, a bit chewy sweet. Cardamom adds warmth, whereas nuts or saffron add a festive finish.