Cashew and Date Kheer is a creamy, comforting Indian dessert that brings together the richness of milk, the natural sweetness of dates, and the buttery crunch of cashews. It’s a luxurious twist on traditional rice or vermicelli kheer, perfect for festive occasions or when you want a sweet treat that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Unlike classic kheer that relies heavily on sugar, this version leans into the natural caramel-like sweetness of dates. When simmered in milk, the dates break down beautifully, infusing the kheer with a deep, mellow flavor and a warm golden hue. Their soft texture melts into the dish, offering just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering it.
Cashews add body, richness, and texture. Lightly toasted before being added to the kheer, they lend a buttery crunch that complements the creamy base. Some versions also include ground cashews to thicken the kheer further and give it a smooth, almost custard-like consistency.
The base of the kheer is made by simmering full-fat milk until it reduces slightly, creating a luscious texture. The dates and cashews are added during the simmering process, along with classic Indian flavorings like cardamom and a few strands of saffron. These spices bring a warm aroma and a hint of complexity to the dish, elevating it from simple to special.
Cashew and Date Kheer is best served warm or chilled, depending on the season and your preference. It can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger festive spread. Since it’s naturally sweetened and packed with nuts and dried fruit, it also feels like a dessert that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
In short, this kheer is a beautiful blend of tradition and richness, with every spoonful offering creamy textures, crunchy bites, and naturally sweet flavor. Cashew and Date Kheer is not just a dessert, it’s comfort in a bowl, perfect for moments that call for something heartfelt and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cashews soaked overnight
- 1 cup dates pitted
- 4 cups milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- 2 tbsp Nuts chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Drain the soaked cashews and blend them with dates and 1/2 cup milk until smooth.
- Heat the remaining milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan and bring it to a boil.
- Add the cashew-date mixture to the boiling milk and stir well.
- Lower the heat and simmer the kheer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add sugar and cardamom powder to the kheer and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- Garnish with chopped nuts and refrigerate for a few hours before serving.
Yumm! Cashew is my fav nut! This is a keeper for sure. 10/10! 🌟
Pretty easy to make, but where we cheek the cardamom powder? I think it is not enough.
Hmmm, my mixture was all clumpy. Not sure if I did it wrong or what. 😩
Easy to make and tastes great! I added some raisins too, yum!
This recipe is legit! Gonna share it with my friends! #Delish
Absolutely! This kheer looks amazing! Can’t wait to try it out with my fam. 😍
This kheer was sooo creamy and delicious! I can’t believe how easy it was to make. Will definitely make it again!
Creamy? Really? I made this and it came out all lumpy. Maybe I did something wrong…
I’m glad you liked it! Kheer is one of my favorite desserts too. So easy yet so delicious!
I followed the recipe but it turned out too sweet for my taste. Maybe reduce the sugar next time?
Can u use almond instead of cashews? I’ll try this recipe but not a big fan of cashew.
I don’t think almond will taste the same. Cashews are creamier, right?
Almonds should work fine, but it might taste a bit different than cashews. Give it a shot!
Not for me. Too nutty and gooey. I prefer my desserts more light.
I used powdered cardamom and it smelled amazing, but my blend wasn’t super smooth (I think my cashews weren’t fully soaked). Next time I’ll blend longer.