Kulfi is a classic Indian dessert that is often referred to as traditional ice cream. Its creamy texture, rich flavors, and exotic ingredients make it a beloved treat, particularly in the hot summer months. Among the many varieties of kulfi, the combination of saffron and cardamom is one of the most popular, as these spices add warmth, aroma, and depth to the dessert. Today, we’re going to walk you through an indulgent and simple recipe to make Saffron & Cardamom Kulfi Pops.
This recipe is an easy-to-follow method that combines the subtle floral notes of saffron with the aromatic kick of cardamom. With just a few ingredients and some patience for freezing, you’ll create a delightful treat that your whole family will enjoy.
What is Saffron & Cardamom Kulfi Pops?
Saffron & Cardamom Kulfi Pops is a frozen Indian dessert made by infusing full-fat milk with the aromatic flavors of saffron and cardamom. The rich milk is simmered down into a thick, creamy consistency and sweetened with condensed milk and sugar. The combination of these ingredients results in a decadent kulfi that is both rich and refreshing at the same time. The popsicle-like presentation makes it a fun and creative way to serve this traditional treat.
The saffron threads lend a beautiful golden hue to the kulfi, while the cardamom gives it a fragrant warmth, making each bite a sensory delight. The optional addition of pistachios and almonds gives this dessert an added texture, making it both flavorful and visually stunning.
Origin of the Recipe
Kulfi has been a part of Indian culinary tradition for centuries. The word “kulfi” is derived from the Persian word “qulfi,” which means “frozen.” Originally, kulfi was made using ice from the Himalayas, which would be brought down to the plains. The ice was then mixed with sweetened milk, thickened with sugar, and frozen in earthenware pots to create the first version of this frozen treat.
Over time, kulfi evolved, and new flavors were introduced. Today, you’ll find various kulfi varieties flavored with pistachio, mango, rose, and of course, saffron and cardamom.
The Saffron & Cardamom Kulfi Pops recipe is a modern twist on this traditional dessert, designed to capture the essence of classic kulfi but with a fresh, fun popsicle shape.
Ingredients
To make the Saffron & Cardamom Kulfi Pops, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 liter full-fat milk – The main base of this kulfi, giving it richness and creaminess.
- 200 ml heavy cream (optional for extra richness) – This enhances the creaminess of the kulfi, making it even more indulgent.
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk – Provides sweetness and helps thicken the kulfi mixture.
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste) – Adds sweetness and balances the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom – Adds a fragrant, spicy warmth to the kulfi.
- 10–12 saffron strands – Saffron infuses a beautiful color and an exotic flavor.
- 2 tbsp warm milk (for soaking saffron) – Helps release the color and essence of the saffron.
- 2 tbsp finely chopped pistachios (optional) – For added texture and flavor.
- 1 tbsp finely chopped almonds (optional) – Enhances texture and adds a nutty flavor.
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Soak the Saffron
Start by soaking saffron strands in 2 tablespoons of warm milk. This allows the saffron to release its color and aromatic flavor. Set this aside while you prepare the rest of the kulfi mixture.
Step 2: Reduce the Milk
In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring 1 liter of full-fat milk to a boil. Once it begins boiling, reduce the heat and allow it to simmer. Stir the milk frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. Continue simmering for 30–40 minutes, or until the milk reduces by half. You will notice the milk thickening and forming malai (cream) on the sides of the pan – be sure to scrape this malai back into the milk as it adds richness to the kulfi.
Step 3: Add Cream & Condensed Milk
Once the milk has reduced, stir in 200 ml of heavy cream (if using) and 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk. Mix well to combine. Allow this mixture to simmer for an additional 5–7 minutes, ensuring it’s thickened and has a smooth texture.
Step 4: Flavor It
Add 1/4 cup sugar and 1/2 tsp ground cardamom to the mixture. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the soaked saffron milk and stir until everything is fully incorporated. The mixture should now have a fragrant, sweet aroma and a slightly thickened consistency.
Step 5: Optional Nuts
For extra flavor and texture, fold in chopped pistachios and almonds (if using). These nuts not only add a pleasant crunch but also enhance the visual appeal of the kulfi, making it more indulgent.
Step 6: Cool and Pour
Allow the kulfi mixture to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, pour the mixture into kulfi molds or popsicle molds. Be sure to leave a little space at the top of each mold for the kulfi to expand as it freezes.
Step 7: Freeze the Kulfi Pops
Cover the molds with their lids or a plastic wrap. Freeze the kulfi for at least 6–8 hours, or overnight, until fully set.
Step 8: Unmold and Serve
Once the kulfi pops have frozen completely, dip the molds briefly in warm water to help release them. Gently pull the popsicles out of the molds. You can garnish the pops with extra chopped pistachios, almonds, or even edible rose petals for a beautiful presentation.
Serve these Saffron & Cardamom Kulfi Pops as a refreshing and aromatic dessert to impress your guests or treat yourself on a hot day!
Variations of Saffron & Cardamom Kulfi Pops
While the Saffron & Cardamom Kulfi Pops are already a delightful treat, you can make several variations based on your preferences:
- Mango Kulfi Pops – For a tropical twist, blend mango puree into the milk mixture and freeze as you would the saffron version.
- Rose-flavored Kulfi – Add a few drops of rose essence or rose water to the mixture for a floral fragrance.
- Chocolate Kulfi Pops – Mix in some cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate to the kulfi base for a rich, indulgent version.
- Coconut Kulfi Pops – Add desiccated coconut or coconut milk for a tropical, creamy texture.
Feel free to get creative with different flavor combinations and toppings. Kulfi is a versatile dessert that can be adapted to suit any palate.
FAQs about Saffron & Cardamom Kulfi Pops
1. Can I make kulfi without heavy cream?
Yes, you can make kulfi without heavy cream. Simply increase the amount of condensed milk and use whole milk to achieve a creamy consistency.
2. How long do kulfi pops take to freeze?
Kulfi pops generally take about 6-8 hours to freeze completely. For best results, leave them in the freezer overnight.
3. Can I substitute saffron with something else?
While saffron is a unique flavor, you can substitute it with turmeric for color and a slightly different flavor. However, the taste will be different.
4. Can I make kulfi without molds?
Yes, if you don’t have kulfi molds, you can use regular popsicle molds or even ice cube trays to create mini kulfi bites.
5. Is there a vegan version of kulfi?
Yes, you can make a vegan kulfi by replacing the milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk. Use plant-based condensed milk or maple syrup as a sweetener.
Conclusion: Saffron & Cardamom Kulfi Pops
Making Saffron & Cardamom Kulfi Pops is a great way to bring a touch of traditional Indian flavors into your kitchen. With the infusion of saffron, cardamom, and the creamy texture of reduced milk, this frozen dessert is bound to become a favorite treat in your home. Whether you choose to serve them at a family gathering or simply as a personal indulgence, these kulfi pops offer a refreshing and satisfying dessert option.
With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create an incredibly delicious and visually stunning dessert that combines the best of both worlds – the richness of traditional kulfi and the fun of popsicles. Enjoy!
Print
Saffron & Cardamom Kulfi Pops Recipe – A Creamy Delight
- Total Time: 6–8 hours (including freezing)
- Yield: 6–8 pops 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Saffron & Cardamom Kulfi Pops is a frozen Indian dessert made by infusing full-fat milk with the aromatic flavors of saffron and cardamom. The rich milk is simmered down into a thick, creamy consistency and sweetened with condensed milk and sugar. The combination of these ingredients results in a decadent kulfi that is both rich and refreshing at the same time. The popsicle-like presentation makes it a fun and creative way to serve this traditional treat.
Ingredients
- 1 liter full-fat milk
- 200 ml heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
- 10–12 saffron strands
- 2 tbsp warm milk (for soaking saffron)
- 2 tbsp finely chopped pistachios (optional)
- 1 tbsp finely chopped almonds (optional)
Instructions
- Soak saffron: In a small bowl, soak saffron strands in 2 tbsp warm milk. Set aside to infuse.
- Reduce milk: In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring full-fat milk to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer, stirring frequently, until it reduces to about half (approx. 30–40 minutes). Scrape the sides to reincorporate the malai.
- Add cream & condensed milk: Stir in heavy cream and condensed milk. Mix well and continue simmering for 5–7 minutes.
- Flavor it: Add sugar, cardamom powder, and the soaked saffron milk. Stir until sugar dissolves and the mixture is fragrant and slightly thickened.
- Optional nuts: Fold in chopped pistachios and almonds for texture and visual appeal.
- Cool & pour: Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Pour into kulfi molds or popsicle molds.
- Freeze: Cover and freeze for at least 6–8 hours or overnight until fully set.
- Unmold & serve: Dip molds briefly in warm water to release. Garnish with extra nuts or edible rose petals if desired.
Notes
For an extra indulgence, garnish the kulfi pops with crushed pistachios or rose petals before serving. You can also drizzle with saffron syrup for added flavor. These pops keep well in the freezer for up to a week, making them a perfect make-ahead treat
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pop (approx. 100g)
- Calories: ~220
- Sugar: ~20g
- Sodium: ~55mg
- Fat: ~11g
- Saturated Fat: ~6g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~24g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Protein: ~6g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: Saffron Kulfi Pops, Cardamom Kulfi, Indian Kulfi Pops
