Ingredients and steps for making delicious Bread Halwa

What is the recipe of bread halwa?

Bread halwa is a rich, indulgent Indian dessert made by slow-cooking bread slices in ghee, sugar, and milk until they turn into a luscious, melt-in-the-mouth halwa. Originating in South India, especially popular in Tamil Nadu and Hyderabad, this dish is often prepared during festive occasions, weddings, or as a quick sweet fix when you have leftover bread at home. With its crispy-to-creamy texture and nutty ghee aroma, bread halwa is comfort food at its finest. And the best part? You can make it at home in under 30 minutes with basic pantry ingredients.

Why Try Bread Halwa?

Bread halwa is one of those recipes that perfectly blends tradition with convenience. Here’s why it’s worth trying:

  • A unique way to use up leftover bread

  • Rich and festive without being too complicated

  • Customizable with dry fruits, saffron, or rose water

  • Can be made with white, brown, or multigrain bread

  • Easily adaptable to suit vegan or lactose-free diets

Ingredients Required for Bread Halwa

This recipe yields about 4 servings:

  • 6 slices of bread (white or brown, edges trimmed)

  • 1/2 cup ghee (clarified butter)

  • 2 cups full-fat milk

  • 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

  • 1/4 tsp cardamom powder

  • 8–10 cashews

  • 8–10 raisins

  • Optional: 1 tbsp chopped almonds or pistachios

  • Optional: a few strands of saffron soaked in warm milk

Step-by-Step Recipe for Bread Halwa

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Trim the edges of the bread slices if you prefer a smoother texture. Tear or cut the slices into small pieces or cubes. This helps them cook evenly and absorb the ghee and milk.

Step 2: Fry the Bread in Ghee

In a thick-bottomed pan or kadhai, heat half the ghee. Add the bread pieces and roast on medium heat until they turn golden brown and crispy. Stir constantly to avoid burning. Once done, remove and keep aside.

Step 3: Fry the Dry Fruits

In the same pan, add a little more ghee and fry the cashews and raisins until golden. Set aside for garnish.

Step 4: Prepare the Milk Mixture

In a separate saucepan, heat the milk and bring it to a light simmer. Add sugar and cardamom powder. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. If using saffron, add it now.

Step 5: Cook the Halwa

Now add the fried bread pieces into the simmering milk mixture. Cook on low-medium heat, stirring frequently. The bread will start absorbing the milk and break down to form a thick, pudding-like consistency.

Step 6: Add Ghee and Mix

Once the mixture thickens and leaves the sides of the pan, add the remaining ghee gradually while stirring. This gives the halwa a glossy texture and rich flavor. Cook for another 5–6 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat. Garnish with fried cashews, raisins, and a few chopped nuts. Serve warm for best taste.

Variations of Bread Halwa

1. Milk Powder Bread Halwa

Add 2 tablespoons of milk powder during the simmering stage for an extra creamy texture.

2. Vegan Bread Halwa

Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and coconut oil instead of ghee. Choose vegan bread with no dairy or eggs.

3. Jaggery Bread Halwa

Replace sugar with powdered jaggery for a more earthy, wholesome sweetness.

4. Rose-Flavored Halwa

Add a few drops of rose water at the end for a fragrant twist.

Tips for Perfect Bread Halwa

  • Use fresh or one-day-old bread for best absorption without sogginess

  • Full-fat milk gives the creamiest results but can be replaced with toned milk

  • Ghee is key—don’t skip or reduce it too much if you want the authentic flavor

  • Avoid overcooking once the halwa reaches the desired consistency to prevent drying

  • You can refrigerate leftovers and reheat with a splash of milk to restore softness

Nutritional Value (Per Serving, Approx.)

Nutrient

Value (Approx.)

Calories

~320–350 kcal

Carbohydrates

~40 g

Sugars

~22 g

Protein

~6 g

Fat

~16 g

Fiber

~1–2 g

Calcium

Moderate

These values will vary based on the type of bread and milk used, as well as the quantity of ghee and sugar.

When to Serve Bread Halwa

  • Festive sweets table during Diwali, Eid, or Holi

  • Quick dessert when guests arrive unexpectedly

  • Sweet craving fix when you’re low on ingredients

  • Iftar or special thali add-on for celebrations

  • Kids’ evening treat served warm with chopped nuts

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Bread halwa stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days

  • Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk or water

  • Avoid freezing as the texture may change upon thawing

  • Always store in an airtight container to prevent odor absorption

Summary

Bread halwa is a decadent Indian dessert that transforms basic ingredients like bread, milk, ghee, and sugar into something truly festive and flavorful. Whether you're new to Indian sweets or just looking for a creative way to use up extra bread, this halwa recipe is quick, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. With options to make it richer, vegan, or lower in sugar, there’s a version for everyone to enjoy. Serve it warm and fresh for the best experience—it’s comfort food that tastes like celebration in every spoonful.

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