Paneer Payasam/ Paneer Kheer
When it comes to Navratri, every meal feels like a celebration of devotion, purity, and tradition. Among the countless vrat-friendly recipes, Paneer Kheer (also called Paneer Payasam) stands out as a rich, creamy, and soul-satisfying dessert that perfectly complements the festive spirit. Unlike regular kheer made with rice, this vrat-special version is prepared with fresh paneer (Indian cottage cheese), milk, sugar, and a touch of cardamom. Garnished with nuts and saffron, it is light, quick to make, and most importantly, suitable for fasting days.
During Navratri, devotees observe fasting rituals where grains, certain spices, and lentils are avoided. Paneer becomes an excellent source of protein and energy during this period, making it a wholesome ingredient for desserts like kheer. Paneer kheer is not only delicious but also keeps you full for longer, which is why it has become a favorite in many Indian households during vrat.
The texture of paneer kheer is luxuriously creamy, with tiny crumbles of paneer blending into thickened milk. Flavored with cardamom and saffron, it carries a subtle sweetness that feels festive without being heavy. Served warm or chilled, paneer payasam is perfect for offering as Navratri bhog (prasad) to Goddess Durga and then enjoyed with family.
One of the biggest advantages of making paneer kheer for Navratri is how quick it is. Unlike rice or sabudana kheer that require soaking and cooking, paneer kheer can be prepared in under 20 minutes. With just a handful of ingredients like paneer, milk, sugar or condensed milk, cardamom, and dry fruits, you can whip up a dessert that looks indulgent and feels festive without much effort.
Paneer kheer isn’t limited to fasting days. It’s also a great choice for other Indian festivals like Janmashtami, Diwali, or even as a simple after-meal dessert. Since it’s naturally gluten-free and protein-rich, it fits easily into modern festive menus while still staying rooted in tradition.
Whether you’re looking to add variety to your Navratri thali or simply want to prepare a vrat-friendly sweet dish that wins hearts, Paneer Kheer (Paneer Payasam) is the ultimate dessert to savour and share.Check out the recipe below.
Ingredients
Grated Paneer -200 gms
Boiled Milk-500 -750 ml
Condensed milk-200 ml
Cardamom powder-1/4 tsp
Saffron-few
Chopped nuts -handful
Cashew -few
Raisins-few
Ghee-1 tsp
Recipe Video
Method
👉 Heat ghee in a pan roast the cashews and raisins until golden brown set aside
👉In the same pan add boiled milk and saffron and cook for 2-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
👉Add grated paneer mix well and continue to cook in medium flame for 5-7 minutes until the paneer is cooked and soft.
👉Add cardamom powder and condensed milk mix well and boil for another 5 minutes or until thickens to desired consistency.
👉Add finely chopped nuts mix well.
👉Finally add fried cashews and raisins mix well and switch off the heat.
👉Serve hot or chilled.Enjoy 😋
Total Preparation Time-20 minutes
Serves-4