Chandrakala is a traditional Indian sweet with a flaky outer layer and rich mawa stuffing, usually deep fried and dipped in sugar syrup. This baked version gives you the same festive flavor without frying. The pastry is made with wholewheat flour, the filling includes instant homemade mawa, coconut and nuts, and the final touch is a saffron sugar syrup brushed on top.
This recipe is perfect for Holi, Diwali, Raksha Bandhan, or any festive occasion when you want a beautiful homemade mithai that feels traditional yet slightly lighter and easier to prepare.
Let’s look at the main ingredients!
For Instant Mawa (Khoa)
Milk Powder
Milk powder is rich in protein and calcium. It helps create quick mawa at home without long hours of reducing milk.
Milk
Milk adds moisture and binds the toasted milk powder. It helps form a soft and rich mawa texture.
For the Stuffing
Desiccated Coconut
Coconut adds natural sweetness and good fats. It gives texture and a classic festive taste.
Chopped Nuts or Seeds
Nuts provide crunch and nourishment. They make the filling richer and more satisfying.
Raw Sugar
Raw sugar gives sweetness with a deeper flavor. It blends beautifully with coconut and mawa.
Cardamom
Cardamom adds a beautiful aroma and traditional flavour.
For the Pastry
Wholewheat Flour
Wholewheat flour adds fiber and structure. It makes this version slightly healthier while keeping it tender.
Salt
Salt balances the sweetness. It improves the overall flavor.
Baking Powder
Baking powder helps create a lighter baked texture. It prevents the pastry from becoming dense.
Ghee or Butter
Ghee adds richness and flavor. It helps create a flaky texture.
Water
Water brings the dough together. It helps form a smooth dough.
For the Sugar Syrup
Raw Sugar
Raw sugar forms the syrup coating. It gives shine and sweetness.
Water
Water dissolves the sugar and creates the syrup base.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice prevents crystallization. It keeps the syrup smooth.
Saffron
Saffron adds festive color and aroma. It gives a luxurious finish.

If you like making classic Indian treats, you may like these recipes.
A link to my Holi Recipes playlist is included here.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- It is baked instead of deep fried.
- It uses simple pantry ingredients.
- It includes an easy instant mawa recipe.
- It is perfect for Holi, Diwali, Raksha Bandhan and festive gifting.
- It tastes rich and festive while being slightly healthier.
- It looks beautiful on a festive platter.
This baked Chandrakala keeps the spirit of traditional Indian mithai while making the process simpler and slightly healthier. It is rich, festive and perfect for Holi, Diwali, Raksha Bandhan or any special celebration.
Homemade sweets always feel more meaningful, and this recipe helps you create that festive magic without deep frying.
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