• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Easy Indian Cookbook
  • Recipes
  • Basics
  • Collections
  • About
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • Basics
  • Collections
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
    • YouTube
  • search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • Basics
    • Collections
    • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • TikTok
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Recipes » Delicious Desserts

    Instant Pot Badam Halwa (with almond meal)

    Published: Feb 2, 2022 · Modified: May 19, 2022 by Shilpa · This post may contain affiliate links · 12 Comments

    Jump to Recipe Jump to Video
    5 from 38 votes
    Badam halwa or almond halwa is a rich and decadent dessert made with almonds, milk, sugar. Traditionally, it is made by soaking, peeling, and grinding the almonds which are then slow-cooked for at least an hour. In this recipe, I am sharing an easy fuss-free method of making this indulgent halwa using a shortcut method (Instant Pot) and a shortcut ingredient (almond meal).
    instant pot badam halwa

    Instant Pot badam halwa step-by-step recipe with video and photos.

    Jump to:
    • About this recipe
    • What is halwa
    • Ingredients
    • Step-by-step instructions
    • Useful tips
    • FAQs
    • Bonus
    • Recipe card
    • Comments

    About this recipe

    Badam halwa or almond halwa is a rich and decadent dessert made with almonds, milk, sugar, and ghee. Traditionally, it is made by soaking, peeling, and grinding the almonds which are then slow-cooked for at least an hour. In this recipe, I am sharing an easy fuss-free method of making this indulgent halwa using a shortcut method (Instant Pot) and a shortcut ingredient (almond meal).

    This Instant Pot almond halwa is ready in 15 minutes and is suitable for beginners. It is perfect for gatherings and also festivals and celebrations. This delectable halwa is very easy to make using an IP and is suitable for beginners. I am making this using almond meal (not almond flour), which gives it the perfect texture. The result is an absolutely delicious dessert with minimal effort. The taste and texture are just like what you achieve after hours of labor.

    Read on for ingredients, useful tips, and step-by-step instructions to make this shortcut badam halwa in an Instant Pot. Click here for my collection of Instant Pot Indian desserts.

    instant pot badam halwa

    What is halwa

    Halwa is dense, sweet confections that are popular across India. They are prepared both at festivals and for day-to-day dessert cravings. It originates from the Middle East and is derived from the Arabic word 'Hulw' which means sweetmeat. Despite its origin, it is loved by Indians immensely.

    Halwa is usually made by simmering something in milk - it could be a grain, fruit, or a vegetable. An all-time favorite for Indians is gajar ka halva (made with grated carrots). You will mostly find halwa garnished with nuts and raisins that are fried in ghee.

    instant pot badam halwa

    Related: Dry fruits laddu.

    Ingredients

    ingredients to make instant pot badam halwa

    Almond meal: This is the main ingredient to make the halwa.

    Ghee: Use store-bought or homemade ghee.

    Milk: I use whole milk; however, low-fat milk can also be used.

    Sugar: I use raw sugar. Plain white sugar can also be used.

    Saffron and cardamom: They are used to flavor the halwa.

    Step-by-step instructions

    1. Set the Instant Pot to saute mode (low) and add 2 tablespoons of ghee.

    IP in saute made and add ghee.
    add almond meal.

    2. Once the ghee melts, add the almond meal. Saute for 2 minutes.

    saute 2 minutes.
    saute 2 minutes.

    3. Add saffron milk, ¾ cup milk, and 1½ cup water. Mix well making sure there are no lumps.

    add milk, saffron milk, and water.
    mix well.

    4. Secure the lid of the IP and set it to pressure cook mode (low) for 3 minutes.

    5. Do a natural release of pressure for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.

    pressure cook 3 minutes.
    quick release the pressure.

    6. Turn the Instant Pot on saute mode (normal).

    7. Add sugar and ¼ cup ghee. Mix well and keep stirring.

    add sugar.
    add ghee.
    mix well.
    keep stirring.

    8. Continue stirring until the halwa thickens and the ghee begins to release from the sides. This will take approximately 9-10 minutes.

    continue mixing.
    continue stirring.

    9. Add cardamom powder and mix well.

    halwqa thickens.
    instant pot badam halwa.

    10. To check if it is done, cool a small portion of halwa and roll it using your fingers. It should come together like a soft ball.

    halwa done.
    instant pot badam halwa.

    Useful tips

    I am using almond meal, giving a grainy texture. You may use almond flour for smooth halwa, although I think almond meal works better and gives the result just like the traditional method.

    I am making this halwa in an 8-quart Instant Pot. If you are using a smaller IP, reduce the amount of water by ¼ cup.

    This dessert is very rich and has a smaller serving size. The measurements I am using here can give you up to 6 servings; however, you can adjust it as per your preference.

    Make sure the lid and sealing ring of the Instant Pot is cleaned thoroughly. I set aside a spare sealing ring that I use to make sweets.

    Do not cut back on ghee as this may change the taste and texture of the halwa.

    After adding sugar and ghee, it is important to keep stirring until the halwa thickens. The halwa is done once the ghee begins to release from the sides and the halwa comes together.

    To check if it is done, cool a small portion of halwa and roll it using your fingers. It should come together like a soft ball (see step-by-step image below).

    The amount of sugar I add gives me a mildly sweet halwa. You can increase the sugar to ¾ cup for a sweeter version.

    Once the halwa is done, remove the inner pot immediately and transfer it to a bowl. If we leave the halwa in the IP pot, it may overcook in the residual heat and burn.

    instant pot badam halwa

    FAQs

    Is almond meal the same as almond flour?

    No. Almond meal has a slightly coarser texture when compared to almond flour. It also has a darker color when compared to almond flour. Almond meal is made using unpeeled almonds whereas almond flour is made using blanched and peeled almonds.

    How to serve this almond halwa?

    Always serve it warm or at room temperature. Do not sever it cold as ghee sets and thickens the halwa.

    How to store badam halwa?

    It can be stored in the refrigerator for 5 days. This halwa also freezes well too. Portion it and freeze for up to three months. Reheat the halwa in a saucepan on low heat.

    How to make this halwa suitable for the keto diet?

    Skip the milk and replace it with almond milk. Replace the sugar with keto-friendly sweeteners, like monk fruit sweeteners.

    Is this almond halwa vegan?

    No. This recipe calls for ghee and milk. If you want to make it vegan, use vegan butter instead of ghee and nut-based milk, although I have not tried making the vegan version.

    instant pot badam halwa

    Bonus

    This Instant Pot badam halwa is:
    - rich, decadent, and delicious
    - easy to make
    - perfect for festivals and celebrations

    instant pot badam halwa

    Recipe card

    Top view of almond halwa.

    Instant Pot Badam Halwa (with almond meal)

    Badam halwa or almond halwa is a rich and decadent dessert made with almonds, milk, sugar. Traditionally, it is made by soaking, peeling, and grinding the almonds which are then slow-cooked for at least an hour. In this recipe, I am sharing an easy fuss-free method of making this indulgent halwa using a shortcut method (Instant Pot) and a shortcut ingredient (almond meal).
    5 from 38 votes
    Print Pin Rate
    Author: Shilpa
    Course: Dessert
    Cuisine: Indian
    Servings: 6
    Cook Time: 30 minutes
    Total Time: 30 minutes

    Ingredients

    • 1¼ cup almond meal (125 grams)
    • ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons ghee
    • ¾ cup plus 1 tablespoon milk
    • 1½ cups water
    • ½ cup sugar
    • ½ teaspoon saffron
    • ½ teaspoon cardamom powder

    Instructions

    • Heat one tablespoon milk until it is warm and add saffron. Mix well and set it aside
    • Set the Instant Pot to saute mode (low) and add 2 tablespoons of ghee
    • Once the ghee melts, add the almond meal. Saute for 2 minutes
    • Add saffron milk, ¾ cup milk, and 1½ cup water. Mix well making sure there are no lumps
    • Secure the lid of the IP and set it to pressure cook mode (low) for 2 minutes
    • Do a natural release of pressure for 5 minutes, then do a quick release
    • Turn the Instant Pot on saute mode (normal)
    • Add sugar and ¼ cup ghee. Mix well and keep stirring
    • Continue stirring until the halwa thickens and the ghee begins to release from the sides. This will take approximately 9-10 minutes (see step-by-step images)
    • Add cardamom powder and mix well
    • Serve halwa warm

    Video

    Notes

    See the tips section above for useful tips to make this dish.
    Nutrition Facts
    Instant Pot Badam Halwa (with almond meal)
    Amount per Serving
    Calories
    281
    % Daily Value*
    Fat
     
    20
    g
    31
    %
    Saturated Fat
     
    6
    g
    38
    %
    Polyunsaturated Fat
     
    1
    g
    Monounsaturated Fat
     
    2
    g
    Cholesterol
     
    22
    mg
    7
    %
    Sodium
     
    16
    mg
    1
    %
    Potassium
     
    43
    mg
    1
    %
    Carbohydrates
     
    23
    g
    8
    %
    Fiber
     
    3
    g
    13
    %
    Sugar
     
    19
    g
    21
    %
    Protein
     
    6
    g
    12
    %
    Vitamin A
     
    49
    IU
    1
    %
    Vitamin C
     
    1
    mg
    1
    %
    Calcium
     
    86
    mg
    9
    %
    Iron
     
    1
    mg
    6
    %
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

    More Delicious Desserts

    • Mohanthal.
      Mohanthal (Traditional Gujarati Recipe)
    • Besan ladoo.
      Mom's Besan Ladoo (Besan Laddu Recipe + Video)
    • mango kulfi.
      BEST Mango Kulfi Recipe (No-cook)
    • Rava laddo.
      Rava Ladoo (Suji Laddu Recipe)

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      Leave a Reply

      Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

      Recipe Rating




    1. Jean says

      February 05, 2022 at 7:22 am

      5 stars
      Interesting Indian dessert, its looks easy and delicious. Excited to try this.

    2. Jennifer says

      February 05, 2022 at 10:36 am

      5 stars
      Cannot wait to give this a try. I love finding desserts that sound amazing but I have never had the chance to try them.

    3. Cindy Mom the Lunch Lady says

      February 05, 2022 at 10:53 am

      5 stars
      Desserts from other cultures are always so interesting. This badam halwa sounds like a simple and delicious dessert to make!

    4. Emily Flint says

      February 05, 2022 at 12:18 pm

      5 stars
      Almond is one of my favorite flavors and this dessert sounds delicious. I love all of your Instant Pot recipes!!

    5. Kalin Williams says

      February 05, 2022 at 3:38 pm

      5 stars
      This sounds incredible! I've never had this dessert before but I definitely want to give it a shot

    6. nancy says

      February 06, 2022 at 4:49 pm

      5 stars
      interesting indian dessert that's super tasty! pinned for later

    7. Kayla DiMaggio says

      February 07, 2022 at 10:09 am

      5 stars
      This badam halwa was so delicious and easy to make! Full of bold flavors!

    8. Natalie says

      February 07, 2022 at 11:03 am

      5 stars
      Wow, this sounds so delicious. Saffron and added cardamon... yum, it's such a nice dessert. I never tried anything like this but now I definitely want to try this halwa. I will just swap sugar for a low-carb one. Making this for sure.

    9. Katie says

      February 07, 2022 at 4:10 pm

      5 stars
      I absolutely adore this recipe!! I seriously could eat it everyday!

    10. Joshua says

      February 08, 2022 at 5:14 am

      5 stars
      This almond halwa was so tasty! It didn't take much for me to make at all. Everything was simple and straightforward.

    11. nancy says

      February 08, 2022 at 1:28 pm

      5 stars
      dessert with almonds, milk, sugar ? count me in!

    12. Anaiah says

      February 08, 2022 at 2:36 pm

      5 stars
      This badam halwa was an incredibly easy dessert to make. It was delicious! Definitely going to make again soon.

    Primary Sidebar

    Namaste and welcome to Easy Indian Cookbook, where you'll find simple and delicious recipes with an Indian flair! I'm Shilpa, and I'm passionate about bringing the flavors of my culture to your kitchen. Discover the convenience of wholesome and nourishing Indian cuisine with my recipes, crafted to be quick and hassle-free. So join me on this culinary journey, and let's create delicious, homemade meals that celebrate the vibrant and diverse flavors of India! Read More…

    Spring Favorites

    • Grilled paneer salad.
      Grilled Paneer Salad
    • samosa chaat.
      Samosa Chaat
    • Peas paratha.
      Peas Paratha (Matar Paratha)
    • shrimp coconut curry.
      EASY Shrimp Coconut Curry in Instant Pot

    Food for Fast (Vrat/Upvas)

    • sabudana khichdi.
      Sabudana Khichdi (Authentic Maharashtrian Style Recipe)
    • sabudana kheer.
      Sabudana Kheer / Tapioca Pudding (Instant Pot)
    • Phool makhana.
      Makhana Chivda / Phool Makhana Namkeen
    • mango juice.
      Mango Juice Recipe (Mango Nectar)
    • Food for Fast (Vrat ka Khana / Upwas Recipes)

    Indian New Year recipes

    • Besan ladoo.
      Mom's Besan Ladoo (Besan Laddu Recipe + Video)
    • Milk barfi.
      Milk Barfi (Milk Powder Burfi) - 15 minutes
    • akki kadalebele payasa.
      Chana Dal Payasam (Instant Pot)
    • Almond halwa.
      Instant Pot Badam Halwa (with almond meal)
    • rasgulla.
      Rasgulla Recipe / Bengali Sponge Roshogolla
    • semiya payasam
      Semiya Payasam / Vermicelli Kheer in Instant Pot

    Popular Recipes

    • perfectly cooked naan bread.
      Homemade Naan Recipe (Easy No-Knead Recipe + Video)
    • aloo gobi.
      Aloo Gobi / Potato Cauliflower Curry
    • lamb palak.
      Lamb Palak / Saag Gosht (Lamb and Spinach Curry)
    • egg puffs recipe.
      Egg Puff / Bakery style Egg Puffs
    • bombay potatoes.
      Bombay Potatoes
    • Instant Pot goat curry.
      Instant Pot Goat Curry (Mutton Curry)

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • About Me

    Privacy Policy

    • Privacy Policy
    • Disclaimer

    Contact

    • Contact

    COPYRIGHT © 2023 EASYINDIANCOOKBOOK.COM