Nankhatai, the quintessential Indian shortbread cookie, brings back memories of childhood indulgence. With its buttery, crumbly texture and delicate sweetness, this treat is loved by people of all ages.

Hey Lykkers! Perfect with tea or as a snack, Nankhatai is surprisingly easy to make at home. Let’s dive into its history, recipe, and tips to make it perfect every time!

What Is Nankhatai?

Origin of Nankhatai

Nankhatai is a traditional Indian biscuit with roots in the Mughal era. Its name comes from "naan" (bread) and "khatai" (biscuit). It’s known for its lightness, crisp exterior, and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Why Everyone Loves It

This cookie balances simplicity and sophistication, making it a staple for festive occasions, tea parties, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Traditional Nankhatai Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup gram flour (besan)

½ cup semolina (rava)

1 cup powdered sugar

¾ cup ghee (clarified butter)

½ teaspoon cardamom powder

¼ teaspoon baking soda

A pinch of salt

Chopped nuts (pistachios or almonds) for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

In a mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, gram flour, semolina, powdered sugar, cardamom powder, baking soda, and salt. Add ghee gradually and knead into a soft dough.

Shape the Cookies:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Divide the dough into small balls, flatten them slightly, and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Add Garnish:

Press a few chopped nuts onto each cookie for decoration.

Bake:

Bake the cookies for 15–18 minutes or until they turn golden. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

Tips for Perfect Nankhatai

1. Use Fresh Ghee

Fresh ghee enhances the aroma and texture of your Nankhatai. Avoid using oil or butter as substitutes.

2. Do Not Overmix

Overmixing the dough can make the cookies tough instead of crumbly.

3. Experiment with Flavors

Add a hint of saffron or vanilla essence for a unique twist.

Why Make Nankhatai at Home?

Customizable Sweetness

Homemade Nankhatai lets you control the sweetness to suit your taste.

Healthier Ingredients

You can use whole wheat flour or jaggery for a healthier version.

Fresh and Pure

Nothing beats the taste of fresh Nankhatai made with love and the best ingredients.

Nankhatai is more than just a cookie—it’s a taste of tradition and nostalgia. With its easy recipe and delightful flavors, it’s a must-try for every dessert lover. If you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie, this recipe guarantees success and satisfaction!