Ingredients
- Milk: 1.5 liters (full-fat milk is ideal for a richer texture)
- Sugar: 100 grams (adjust to taste)
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (or vinegar, for curdling the milk)
- Cardamom Powder: 1 teaspoon (optional, for flavor)
- Ghee (Clarified Butter): 1 tablespoon (for greasing)
- Pistachios or Almonds: For garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Milk:
- Pour the milk into a heavy-bottomed pan and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
- Once the milk comes to a boil, reduce the heat and add the lemon juice gradually while stirring. This will curdle the milk, separating the whey from the solids.
- Drain the Whey:
- Strain the curdled milk using a muslin cloth or fine sieve to separate the whey. Rinse the milk solids (paneer) under cold water to remove any sourness from the lemon juice.
- Cook the Mixture:
- Return the milk solids to the pan and cook over low heat. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
- Add sugar and cardamom powder (if using) to the mixture. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and starts to leave the sides of the pan. This process may take 15-20 minutes.
- Set the Milk Cake:
- Grease a plate or tray with ghee. Transfer the cooked mixture onto the plate and spread it evenly to form a thick layer.
- Press the mixture gently with a spatula to smooth the surface. Garnish with chopped pistachios or almonds if desired.
- Cool and Slice:
- Allow the milk cake to cool completely at room temperature. Once set, cut it into squares or diamond-shaped pieces.
Tips for Success
- Use Full-Fat Milk: Full-fat milk yields a creamier and richer milk cake.
- Stir Constantly: To avoid burning, stir the mixture continuously while cooking.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture while cooking and adjust the sugar to your preference.
- Patience is Key: The process of thickening the milk requires time and patience, but the result is worth it.
Variations
- Chocolate Milk Cake: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the mixture for a chocolatey twist.
- Rose-Flavored Milk Cake: Add a few drops of rose essence for a fragrant variation.
- Nutty Delight: Mix chopped nuts like cashews and almonds into the mixture for added texture.
Why You’ll Love Milk Cake
Milk cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on festive occasions, as a gift, or simply as a sweet indulgence. Its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a favorite among dessert lovers. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, milk cake is sure to impress!
For more inspiration, you can explore recipes here and here. Let me know if you’d like additional tips or variations! 😊