Sattu laddoos are one of the simplest Indian sweets you can make: sattu, ghee and jaggery, shaped by hand. They are filling, keep well, and make a good energy bite for tiffins, travel or the afternoon slump.

Makes 10–12 laddoos · Ready in about 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (about 120 g) sattu
  • 1/3 cup (about 70 g) ghee
  • 1/2 cup (about 80 g) powdered jaggery, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom (elaichi) powder
  • 2 tablespoons chopped almonds or cashews (optional)

Use plain Natural Sattu so you can control the sweetness.

Method

  1. Warm the ghee in a heavy pan on low heat. Add the sattu and stir continuously for 4–5 minutes until it smells nutty and turns a shade darker. Keep the heat low so it does not burn.
  2. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool for 5–8 minutes until it is warm but comfortable to touch.
  3. Add the jaggery powder, cardamom and nuts. Mix well with your hands, rubbing in the jaggery.
  4. Take a small handful and press it firmly into a ball. Repeat with the rest of the mixture.
  5. Let the laddoos set for 15 minutes, then store them in an airtight container.

Tips

  • Laddoos won't hold together? Add a tablespoon of warm melted ghee and press again.
  • Add jaggery only once the mix has cooled a little. If it is too hot, the jaggery melts and the laddoos turn sticky.
  • Want them less rich? Swap some of the ghee for a few spoons of warm milk. These keep for only 2–3 days in the fridge.
  • Add-ins: desiccated coconut, flax or sesame seeds, or a pinch of dry ginger powder all work well.

How long do sattu laddoos last?

Made with ghee, they keep for about a week in an airtight container at room temperature, and longer in the fridge.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use sugar instead of jaggery?

Yes, use powdered sugar in the same amount. Jaggery gives a deeper, caramel-like flavour.

Do I need to roast the sattu again?

Sattu is already roasted, so the short roast in ghee is only for flavour and aroma. Don't skip it; it makes a big difference.

Are sattu laddoos healthy?

They contain protein and fibre from the sattu, but ghee and jaggery make them calorie-dense, so enjoy one or two as a treat. For a lighter option, try a sattu drink.