Rose barfi (gulab barfi)

'Gulab' (Rose) Barfi is a romantic and fragrant dessert. The combination of rose water and milk powder results in a sophisticated, perfumed sweet that evokes the scent of oriental gardens. Dried rose petals are often added, lending not only flavour but also beautiful texture and visuals.
🕒 Prep Time 10 mins
🍳 Cook Time 20 mins
Total Time 2 hrs 30 mins
🍽️ Servings 12 servings
🔥 Calories 310 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Indian

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Non-stick pan
  • Square tin

Allergen Information

⚠️ Milk
⚠️ Nuts (Almonds)

Instructions

1

Melt the butter with the milk and sugar until the sugar dissolves.

Tip: Use a medium heat.
2

Add the milk powder and saffron. Stir until lump-free and cook until thick.

Tip: Saffron only gives a mild background note here, the rose is the star.
3

When the mixture separates from the sides of the pan, remove from the heat and stir in the rose water (and the chopped rose petals, if using).

Tip: The heat releases the scent of the rose water intensely.
4

Pour the mixture into the tin, smooth the top. Sprinkle with the flaked almonds.

Tip: The pink (if you added a little food colouring) and the white almonds make a nice contrast.
5

Let it cool and set, then slice.

Tip: Be careful when cutting so you don't squash the shape.

Recipe FAQ

The rose flavour is too strong.
The concentration of rose water varies by brand. Always taste before adding! Better less than more.

Ingredients

  • 200 g Full-fat milk powder
  • 150 ml Milk
  • 100 g Granulated sugar
  • 50 g Butter
  • 2 tbsp Rose water (or a few drops of rose essence)
  • 30 g Flaked almonds
  • 1 pinch Saffron
  • 1 tbsp Dried edible rose petals (optional)