Sugar-Free Chocolate Sandesh is a delicious Bengali sweet made with cottage cheese (paneer), cocoa powder, and natural sweeteners. It is a healthier alternative to traditional sandesh that uses sugar. Here’s the recipe:
Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes Ready in: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cottage cheese (paneer), crumbled
- 1/2 cup milk powder
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup powdered jaggery or any other natural sweetener (adjust as per taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
- A few strands of saffron (optional)
- Chopped nuts for garnishing (almonds, pistachios, etc.)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cottage cheese, milk powder, cocoa powder, powdered jaggery, cardamom powder, and saffron strands. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture to a non-stick pan or a heavy-bottomed pan. Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring continuously to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
- Cook until the mixture thickens and starts to come together, forming a dough-like consistency. This should take about 10-12 minutes.
- Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Once it is cool enough to handle, knead it gently to make it smooth.
- Divide the mixture into small portions and shape them into small discs or any desired shape.
- Garnish each sandesh with chopped nuts, pressing them gently into the surface.
- Refrigerate the sugar-free chocolate sandesh for at least 1-2 hours or until they are firm and well-set.
- Once the sandesh are chilled and firm, they are ready to be served.
Sugar-Free Chocolate Sandesh can be enjoyed as a guilt-free dessert or sweet treat. They are a healthier option for those looking to limit their sugar intake. Store the sandesh in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.