Khajoor Na Ghugra

Khajoor Na Ghugra is a traditional Gujarati festive sweet made with a rich stuffing of dates, coconut, and cardamom, encased in crisp golden pastry — perfect for celebrations and special occasions.

Ingredients

  1. ¼ cup milk
  2. ½ cup ghee
  3. 2 teaspoons poppy seeds, ground
  4. 6 green cardamoms, powdered
  5. 200 grams dates (seeded and coarsely ground)
  6. 1 cup refined flour (maida)
  7. ¼ cup desiccated coconut
  8. Ghee for frying
  9. Salt to taste
  10. ½ cup sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough

    • In a mixing bowl, rub ½ cup of ghee into the refined flour.
    • Add a pinch of salt and milk gradually to make a soft, pliable dough.
    • Knead the dough thoroughly for about 15 minutes until smooth.
    • Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest.
  2. Make the Stuffing

    • In another bowl, combine the ground poppy seeds, desiccated coconut, coarsely ground dates, powdered cardamom, and sugar.
    • Mix well to form a uniform sweet filling.
    • Divide the filling into small, even-sized balls.
  3. Shape the Ghugras

    • Divide the dough into small, equal portions and roll each into a smooth ball.
    • Roll out each dough ball into a small round disc (about palm-size).
    • Place a portion of the date filling on one side of the round.
    • Fold it over to form a semi-circle and press the edges firmly to seal.
    • Use a fluted cutter to trim the edges neatly for a decorative look.
    • Repeat the process for all the remaining dough balls.
  4. Fry the Ghugras

    • Heat ghee in a deep pan over medium heat.
    • Once hot, carefully add the prepared ghugras in batches.
    • Fry until they turn crisp and golden brown on both sides.
    • Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess ghee.
  5. Serve

    • Let the ghugras cool slightly before serving.
    • Enjoy them as a sweet snack or festive treat — deliciously crispy outside with a rich, nutty date filling inside.

Serving Suggestion: Serve Khajoor Na Ghugra warm or at room temperature with a cup of tea — they also make a delightful addition to Diwali or festive platters.