During Sawan fasting (Shravan vrat), devotees often look for recipes that are delicious, filling, and made with pure satvik ingredients. Makhana Kheer (Fox Nut Kheer) is one such traditional fasting dessert that is loved for its creamy texture, rich flavour, and nourishing qualities.
Made with roasted makhana, milk, dry fruits, and aromatic cardamom, this vrat-friendly kheer is a perfect sweet treat for Sawan Somwar, Navratri, Janmashtami fasting, and other religious fasts. Unlike regular rice kheer, makhana kheer does not use grains, making it suitable for many fasting rules.
Makhana is considered a healthy fasting ingredient as it provides energy and keeps you full for a longer time. The combination of milk, nuts, and fox nuts creates a wholesome dessert that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike.
Ingredients2 cups makhana (fox nuts)
1 litre full-fat milk
3–4 tablespoons sugar (adjust according to taste)
2 tablespoons ghee
8–10 almonds, finely chopped
8–10 cashews, chopped
1 tablespoon raisins
½ teaspoon cardamom powder
8–10 strands saffron (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped pistachios for garnish
(Use sendha namak only in savoury fasting dishes; kheer does not require salt.)
How to Make Makhana Kheer
Step 1: Roast the MakhanaHeat 2 tablespoons ghee in a heavy-bottom pan.
Add makhana and roast on low flame for 5–7 minutes.
Stir continuously until the makhana becomes crispy.
Allow them to cool slightly.
Tip: Proper roasting gives the kheer a rich nutty flavour.
Step 2: Crush the MakhanaTake half of the roasted makhana and crush them coarsely using a mixer.
Keep the remaining makhana whole for a nice texture.
Crushed makhana helps thicken the kheer naturally.
Step 3: Boil the MilkPour milk into a heavy pan.
Bring it to a boil on medium flame.
Reduce the flame and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Keep stirring occasionally so the milk does not stick to the bottom.
Step 4: Add MakhanaAdd crushed and whole roasted makhana to the simmering milk.
Mix well and cook for another 15–20 minutes.
Stir occasionally until the milk becomes thick and creamy.
Step 5: Add FlavoursAdd sugar, cardamom powder, saffron, and chopped dry fruits.
Cook for 3–5 more minutes.
Turn off the flame and garnish with pistachios.
Your creamy fasting special makhana kheer is ready to serve.