There’s something magical about the festive season in India – the vibrant colours, the scent of incense and ghee in the air, and of course, the irresistible lineup of sweets that make their way to everyone home. But let’s be honest – while we love our traditional mithai, we’ve also started craving desserts that are a little more health – conscious, a little more gourmet, and a lot more exciting!
That’s where this Exotic Dry Fruits Laddu comes in – a sweet that perfectly blends tradition with a modern twists. No refined sugar, no heavy frying. Just wholesome dry fruits, natural sweetness from dates and an elegant white chocolate coating that makes these laddus feel like something out of high – end patisserie.
This recipe is close to my heart because it brings together.
- The warm nostalgia of Indian festivals (think ghee-roasted nuts and gulkand)
- The goodness of nature (dates, seeds, and nuts)
- And a little touch of indulgence (because what’s a festival without chocolate?)
Its quick to make, stunning to look at, and even better to gift. Whether you’re making these for Diwali, Raksha bandhan, Karva Chauth or simply want something unique and healthy in your sweet stash, these laddus tick all the boxes.
Oh, and did I mention – they require no sugar, no baking and just a little ghee?? They’re practically guilt free!
So tie up that apron, turn on some festive tunes, and let’s get into the mood with this delightful, melt in your mouth Exotic Dry Fruits Laddu recipe that’s bound to become a favourite in your home too.
Do visit my other Sweet dish |Festival recipes | Vrat recipes.. on my blog with this post on It includes, Rajbhog, Kheer Mohan recipe, Chawal ka meetha dosa, Seviyan ki kheer | Vermicelli Kheer, Besan ke Laddoo | Halwai style besan ke laddoo, Authentic Ukdiche Modak Recipe, Sugar free Lauki ki Kheer | Vrat Recipe, Shrikhand, Puri, and Batata Bhaji – A Gudi Padwa Special Thali, Rajasthani Lapsi made with jaggey, Moong Dal & Daliya Kheer,Quick Coconut Burfi – Ready in Just 2 Minutes! further, do check my other recipes collection All recipes
Total Time Required: 15 Minutes
Ingredients
- Ghee – ¼ tsp (you can use butter as well)
- Chopped almonds – ¼ cup
- Chopped cashew nuts – ¼ cup
- Chopped walnuts – 2 tbsp
- Pumpkin seeds – 1 tbsp
- Chopped pistachios – 1 tbsp
- Chopped dates – ½ cup (seedless, roughly chopped)
- Gulkand (rose petal preserve) – 1 tbsp (optional but adds a beautiful floral sweetness)
- Dried rose petals – 1 tbsp
- White chocolate – 80 grams (for coating)
Method
- Start by heating 1/4 tsp ghee in a pan. This tiny amount is just enough to help the dry fruits roast without burning – feel free to use butter if you prefer.
- Now add your chopped dry fruits. Add 1/4 cup chopped almonds, 1/4 cup chopped cashews, 2 tbsp chopped walnuts, 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds, 1 tbsp chopped pistachios.
- Now roast these on low to medium flame. Stir constantly so they don’t burn. This slow roasting really enhances the flavor and gives them a wonderful crunch.
- Once the dry fruits are golden and aromatic. add 1/2 cup seedless, roughly chopped dates. The dates act as both a natural sweetener and a binding agent, so there’s no need for added sugar. Stir well and let the dates soften slightly in the warm pan, mixing pan, mixing evenly with the nuts.
- Now add 1 tbsp gulkand or you can add honey also if you don’t have gulkand.
- Sprinkle 1 tsp dried rose petals.
- This gives the laddus a rich, floral aroma and takes them to another level! Mix everything well until the mixture is slightly sticky and holds together.
- Now let this mixture cool slightly before shaping.
- Once it’s cool enough to handle, shape the mixture into small laddus (or any shape you like – hearts, bars, balls)
- Place the shaped laddus in the refrigerator for 10 – 15 minutes to firm up. This also helps them hold their shape when you dip them in chocolate.
- Now take 80 gm white chocolate, melt the chocolate using the double boiler method.
- Place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Set the bowl over a pot of gently simmering water.
- Stir until smooth and melted. Now quickly dia each chilled laddus into the melted white chocolate. The cold temperature helps the chocolate set quickly and coat evenly.
- Place them on sheet of butter paper or parchment to avoid sticking.
- Let them chill again for about 10 minutes – just until the chocolate sets.
Once the chocolate has set, garnish the laddus with a few more dried rose petals for that final exotic touch. And that’s it — your Exotic Dry Fruits Laddus with White Chocolate are ready to impress!
These laddus are a beautiful blend of tradition and modern flavors. They’re festive, luxurious, and a healthier alternative to store-bought sweets. Whether you’re celebrating Diwali, Raksha Bandhan, or just craving a clean dessert — this recipe is a must-try.
Tips:
- Storage: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to a week!
- Variations: Try adding dried figs or apricots for a fruity twist. You can also use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Sugar-Free Win: Thanks to the dates, these laddus are naturally sweet and don’t need any extra sugar!
