Millet Cocoa Fudge Recipe – Easy Gluten-Free Indian Sweet

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Millet Cocoa Fudge Recipe – Easy Gluten-Free Indian Sweet

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a sweet treat that doesn’t require a ton of effort, and maybe even sneaks in a little goodness. Well, look no further! This Millet Cocoa Fudge is exactly that – a simple, delicious, and surprisingly healthy Indian sweet that’s perfect for any occasion. I first made this when I was trying to find ways to use millet flour, and honestly, it’s become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This fudge is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly easy to make, needing just a handful of ingredients and about 40 minutes of your time. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. But the best part? It’s unbelievably tasty! The rich cocoa complements the nutty millet beautifully, creating a fudge that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of this delightful fudge:

• ½ cup millet flour (about 60g)
• ½ cup sugar (about 100g)
• ¼ cup water (about 60ml)
• 2 teaspoons cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons ghee (about 10g)
• 1 tablespoon pistachios, chopped (about 15g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference:

• Millet Flour: This isn’t your average flour! Millet is a wonderfully nutritious grain, packed with fiber and minerals. It adds a lovely subtle nutty flavor to the fudge. You can find it at most health food stores or online.
• Ghee: Ghee is essential in Indian sweets. It adds a richness and aroma that you just can’t replicate with other fats. Don’t be afraid to use it – a little goes a long way!
• Cocoa Powder: Quality matters here. I recommend using a good quality cocoa powder for the best chocolatey flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa powder will give you a darker, smoother fudge.
• Regional Variations: In India, sweets are incredibly diverse! Different regions use different ingredients and techniques. While this recipe is fairly straightforward, you’ll find variations using different nuts, spices, and even types of sugar across the country.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, heat the ghee in a kadai (or a deep pan) over low heat. Add the millet flour and roast it gently for about 5 minutes. Stir constantly to prevent burning. You’ll notice a lovely roasted aroma – that’s what we’re looking for! Transfer the roasted millet flour to a plate and let it cool completely.
2. Once cooled, mix in the cocoa powder with the millet flour. Set this aside.
3. In the same kadai, combine the sugar and water. Place it over medium heat and bring it to a boil. Keep stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
4. Now, this is important: continue boiling the sugar syrup until it reaches single-thread consistency. (More on that in the FAQs!).
5. Quickly add the millet-cocoa mixture to the hot sugar syrup. Stir constantly and vigorously to prevent any lumps from forming. This part requires a little elbow grease!
6. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously, until it starts to thicken and pull away from the sides of the pan. Add the remaining ghee and mix well.
7. Pour the mixture into a greased tray (an 8×8 inch square tray works perfectly). Sprinkle the chopped pistachios evenly over the top and gently press them into the fudge.
8. Let the fudge set for about 10 minutes. Then, cut it into squares while it’s still slightly warm. Once completely cooled, store it in an airtight container.

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the roasting step for the millet flour! It really enhances the flavor.
• Keep stirring! Seriously, constant stirring is key to preventing lumps and ensuring a smooth fudge.
• Greasing the tray well is crucial for easy removal.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: Swap the ghee for an equal amount of plant-based butter. It works beautifully! My friend, Priya, swears by using coconut oil for a subtle coconut flavor.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your cocoa powder to ensure it hasn’t been processed in a facility that also handles gluten.
• Spice Level: Add a pinch of cardamom powder or a tiny dash of chili powder for a warm, spicy kick. My grandmother always added a hint of cardamom to her sweets.
• Festival Adaptations: This fudge makes a wonderful gift during Diwali or any special occasion. Package it in pretty boxes or wrap it in colorful paper for a festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

This fudge is delicious on its own with a cup of chai! It also pairs well with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Instructions

Store the millet cocoa fudge in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, but it might become a little firmer.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of flour instead of millet flour?

While millet flour gives this fudge its unique flavor and texture, you could try using sorghum flour or even almond flour. Keep in mind that the texture and taste will be different.

2. What is ‘single-thread consistency’ and how do I check for it?

Single-thread consistency is a stage in sugar syrup making. Dip a spoon into the syrup and lift it up. If a single, thin thread of syrup falls from the spoon, it’s ready!

3. Can this fudge be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container.

4. How can I prevent the fudge from becoming too hard?

Don’t overcook the sugar syrup. And make sure to add the ghee at the end to keep it soft and pliable.

5. What are the health benefits of using millet flour in this recipe?

Millet flour is a great source of fiber, magnesium, and phosphorus. It’s also gluten-free and has a lower glycemic index than many other flours, making it a healthier option for those watching their blood sugar levels.

Enjoy making (and eating!) this delicious Millet Cocoa Fudge. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below!