When it comes to traditional Indian desserts, kheer holds a special place in every household. Creamy, aromatic, and lightly sweetened with cardamom, this rice pudding has been cherished for centuries. Whether served during festivals, family gatherings, or simply as a comforting after-dinner treat, kheer is a dish that never goes out of style.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ultimate kheer recipe step by step, with tips, variations, and tricks to make it perfectly creamy every time. If you’ve ever wanted to master this classic dessert, this is the only guide you’ll need.
🍚 What Is Kheer?
Kheer is a South Asian rice pudding made with milk, sugar, and rice, flavored with cardamom, nuts, and sometimes saffron. Similar versions exist in different cultures—like payasam in South India, firni in North India, and sheer khurma during Eid celebrations.
Its beauty lies in its simplicity: a handful of ingredients slowly cooked together until they turn into a decadent, silky dessert.
🥄 Ingredients for Classic Kheer Recipe (Serves 4–5)
½ cup basmati rice (washed and soaked for 30 minutes)
4 cups whole milk
½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
4–5 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews)
1 tbsp raisins (optional)
A pinch of saffron strands (optional, soaked in warm milk)
1 tsp rose water or kewra essence (optional, for fragrance)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Drain soaked rice and add to a heavy-bottomed pan with milk. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 2: Simmer Slowly
Reduce the heat and let it cook on low flame, stirring occasionally. This prevents sticking and helps the milk reduce.
Step 3: Add Flavorings
After 20–25 minutes, when the rice is soft and the milk has thickened, add sugar, cardamom, saffron, and raisins. Stir well.
Step 4: Cook Until Creamy
Continue simmering until the kheer reaches a rich, creamy texture (about 40–45 minutes total).
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Turn off the heat, add rose water if using, and garnish with chopped nuts. Serve warm or chilled.
🌟 Pro Tips for the Best Kheer
Use full-fat milk for creaminess.
Slow cooking is key—the longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.
Stir regularly to prevent burning at the bottom.
Add sugar only after the rice is fully cooked.
Chill it for a thicker consistency if serving cold.
🍮 Delicious Kheer Variations
Vermicelli Kheer (Seviyan): Replace rice with roasted vermicelli.
Sabudana Kheer: Made with tapioca pearls, often during fasting.
Coconut Kheer: Add coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Dry Fruit Kheer: Richer version with khoya (milk solids) and lots of nuts.
Chocolate Kheer: A modern fusion with cocoa or melted chocolate.
🎉 When to Serve Kheer
Festivals like Diwali, Eid, or Raksha Bandhan
Family get-togethers and weddings
As a cooling dessert in summer (served chilled)
As a warm comfort food in winter
Conclusion
Now you have the ultimate kheer recipe guide you need—a dessert that blends tradition with comfort and elegance. With just a few ingredients, patience, and love, you can prepare this timeless classic at home.
So, the next time you’re craving something sweet and soulful, whip up a bowl of creamy kheer and enjoy a taste of tradition in every bite. 🍚✨