The sweet and tangy world of cham chams has captivated our taste buds for centuries. These soft, spongy dumplings are a staple in Bengali cuisine, often served as a dessert or a snack. But why settle for just one way to enjoy them when you can have 20? From classic recipes infused with rose syrup to innovative twists featuring saffron, chocolate, and more, we’ve gathered the most mouthwatering cham cham recipes out there. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurer, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In our collection of 20 delicious cham cham recipes, you’ll find everything from simple yet elegant desserts to show-stopping treats that are sure to impress your friends and family. So grab a spoon, get ready to indulge, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of cham chams!
Classic Bengali Cham Cham with Rose Syrup
A traditional Bengali dessert, Cham Cham is a sweet treat that’s perfect for special occasions. This recipe combines the classic version with the added flavor and aroma of rose syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
– Rose syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. Combine milk, sugar, and cornstarch in a saucepan. Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a custard-like consistency (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in cardamom powder. Let it cool to room temperature.
4. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, whisk in heavy cream until well combined.
6. Spoon the Cham Cham into individual serving cups or glasses.
7. Drizzle with rose syrup and garnish with chopped pistachios (if using).
8. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Kesar Pista Cham Cham with Saffron Infusion
Experience the rich flavors of India with this classic recipe for Kesar Pista Cham Cham, a creamy and aromatic dessert flavored with saffron.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almonds (pistas)
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons ghee or unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Chopped nuts and dried fruits for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Soak the almonds in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the almonds and blend them into a smooth paste with 1 cup of milk until well combined.
3. Heat the ghee or butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the saffron-infused water and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
4. Add the almond-milk mixture to the pan and stir continuously for about 10-12 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Stir in the cardamom powder.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Garnish with chopped nuts and dried fruits, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate-Filled Cham Cham for a Sweet Surprise
Looking for a unique dessert that will surprise your taste buds? Look no further! This recipe combines the classic Indian sweet treat, cham cham, with rich and creamy chocolate for an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/2 cup grated paneer (Indian cheese)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan. Whisk until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in water, paneer, and melted butter.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or molds.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Spoon melted chocolate over the cham cham mixture.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mango Flavored Cham Cham with Fresh Puree
A refreshing and fruity twist on the classic Indian drink, this Mango Flavored Cham Cham is perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup mango puree (fresh or canned)
– 1 tablespoon rose syrup (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves and ice cubes for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the water and sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the mango puree to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
3. If desired, add the rose syrup and stir again.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve the cham cham over ice cubes and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready to serve as soon as it’s chilled.
Coconut-Coated Cham Cham for a Tropical Twist
Tropical Twist: Coconut-Coated Cham Cham Recipe
Coconut-coating takes this Indian classic to new heights! This sweet treat is a perfect combination of creamy cham cham and crunchy coconut flakes, making it a must-try for any tropical food lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cham cham (Indian-style milk sweets)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the coconut flakes and condensed milk until well combined.
2. Add the vanilla extract and salt to the mixture; stir well.
3. Dip each cham cham sweet into the coconut mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place the coated sweets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the coating.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on refrigeration time)
Cardamom-Scented Cham Cham with a Fragrant Touch
This sweet treat is an Indian-inspired delight, infused with the warm aromas of cardamom and a hint of rose. Perfect for special occasions or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rose petals (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the ground cardamom. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture into a clean bowl, discarding the solids.
4. Add the melted butter and dried rose petals (if using). Stir until well combined.
5. Pour the Cham Cham into a serving dish or individual cups. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (steeping time)
Serving Suggestions:
Serve chilled, garnished with chopped nuts or dried rose petals for added texture and visual appeal. Enjoy as a dessert or a refreshing treat any time of day!
Strawberry Cham Cham with a Berrylicious Glaze
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and tangy with this refreshing dessert. Strawberry Cham Cham is a classic Indian drink turned into a scrumptious dessert, topped with a rich berry glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons rose syrup (or substitute with a floral extract)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup strawberry puree
– Fresh strawberries, sliced (for garnish)
– Berrylicious Glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, rose syrup (or substitute), and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Stir in strawberry puree.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or glasses.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Berrylicious Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Mix until smooth and drizzle over chilled Strawberry Cham Cham.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)
Malai Cham Cham with Creamy Ricotta Filling
This Indian-inspired dessert combines the richness of creamy ricotta filling with the delicate charm of cham cham dumplings, wrapped in a velvety malai sauce.
Ingredients:
For the ricotta filling:
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cham cham dumplings:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the malai sauce:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Cardamom powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the ricotta filling by mixing all ingredients until smooth.
2. Mix flour, milk, and salt to make cham cham dough. Knead for 5 minutes. Rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide dough into small portions and shape into balls.
4. Fry dumplings in hot oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. Prepare malai sauce by heating cream and sugar over low heat. Stir in melted butter and cardamom powder (if using).
6. Stuff fried cham cham with ricotta filling. Serve with warm malai sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Paan-Flavored Cham Cham with Betel Leaf Essence
Experience the refreshing blend of paan and cham cham, a popular Indian dessert, infused with the essence of betel leaves. This unique recipe combines the cooling properties of paan with the creamy sweetness of cham cham.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cham cham (Indian sweetened yogurt)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon paan powder
– 1/4 teaspoon betel leaf essence
– 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together cham cham and sugar until well combined.
2. Add paan powder and betel leaf essence to the mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, garnish with chopped pistachios.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Dry Fruit-Stuffed Cham Cham for a Nutty Crunch
A sweet and crunchy twist on the traditional cham cham, this recipe fills soft dumplings with a mix of dry fruits and nuts for a delightful snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dry fruit mixture (cranberries, raisins, apricots, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, etc.)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, ghee or oil, and salt.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and pliable.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly to form a cham cham shape.
5. Place about 1/2 teaspoon of dry fruit mixture in the center of each cham cham.
6. Fold the cham cham over the filling, forming a pouch, and press the edges together to seal.
7. Heat a non-stick pan with 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
8. Cook the stuffed chams for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
9. Drizzle with honey and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Pot Cham Cham for Quick Sweet Cravings
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this instant pot cham cham recipe that’s easy to make and utterly delicious! This Indian-inspired dessert is a perfect treat for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup condensed milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon instant coffee powder (optional)
– 1 tablespoon rosewater or orange blossom water (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the condensed milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid and whisk the mixture until smooth.
6. If desired, add instant coffee powder or rosewater/orange blossom water and whisk to combine.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Eggless Cham Cham for a Vegetarian Delight
Cham Cham is a popular Bengali dessert that’s easily made without eggs. This eggless version still packs plenty of creamy flavor and texture, making it perfect for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon rosewater (optional)
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine paneer, milk, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and forms a custard-like texture (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugar and heavy cream until dissolved.
4. If desired, add rosewater for extra flavor.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large mold.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to set.
7. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Gulab Cham Cham Soaked in Sugar Syrup
Experience the sweet and fragrant delight of Indian cuisine with this simple recipe for Gulab Cham Cham soaked in a rich sugar syrup. These soft, chewy dumplings are perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup water
– Sugar syrup for soaking (see below)
Instructions:
1. Combine milk, sugar, and ghee in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes or until frothy.
3. Add flour and salt. Mix well to form a dough.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Boil water and add the dough pieces (Cham Cham). Cook for 10-12 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. Soak the cooked Cham Cham in sugar syrup (see below) for at least 30 minutes.
Sugar Syrup:
– Combine 2 cups water, 1 cup sugar, and 1/4 cup rosewater (optional) in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
Badam Cham Cham with Almond Garnish
A classic Indian dessert, Badam Cham Cham is a sweet and creamy treat made with almonds, milk, and sugar. This recipe adds a crunchy almond garnish for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon rosewater (optional)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in the rosewater, if using.
3. Add the sliced almonds to the cream mixture and stir gently to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until set.
6. Just before serving, drizzle with melted butter and garnish with additional sliced almonds.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Microwave Cham Cham for a Hassle-Free Treat
Ready a delicious Indian treat in no time with this hassle-free recipe! This microwave cham cham is a perfect snack for any occasion, requiring minimal effort and cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk powder
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla essence
– 1/2 cup water
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine milk powder, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the vanilla essence and mix well to form a smooth paste with the help of a spoon.
3. Gradually add the water and mix until a thick batter forms.
4. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds or until the mixture has set.
5. Remove from microwave and let cool slightly.
6. Shape into small balls, if desired, and top with chopped nuts or dried fruit (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-45 seconds
Orange Zest Cham Cham with Citrusy Notes
A refreshing and citrusy twist on the classic cham cham, this recipe combines the sweetness of orange zest with the tanginess of citrus notes. Perfect for a hot summer day or as a pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon orange zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Pinch of salt
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and orange zest. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is warm.
2. Remove from heat and stir in orange juice, lemon juice, and salt. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture into a large bowl or individual serving cups. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (steeping time)
Rabdi Cham Cham with Thickened Milk Topping
Rabdi Cham Cham with Thickened Milk Topping: A Creamy Indian Dessert
This rich and creamy dessert is a popular treat in North India, typically served at special occasions. Rabdi Cham Cham combines the flavors of rose syrup, cardamom, and nuts with a thickened milk topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 2 tablespoons rose syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds and pistachios
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Combine the milk, sugar, and cardamom in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the rose syrup and nuts to the milk mixture. Stir well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and cornstarch.
4. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the milk mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jaggery-Sweetened Cham Cham for a Healthier Option
This healthier take on the classic Cham Cham recipe replaces refined sugar with jaggery, adding a rich, caramel-like flavor to this popular Indian dessert. Perfect for those looking for a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jaggery powder
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon rosewater (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine jaggery powder and milk. Heat over low heat, stirring until the jaggery dissolves.
2. Add heavy cream, rosewater (if using), cardamom powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your sweet and soothing jaggery-sweetened Cham Cham!
Mini Cham Cham Bites for Party Desserts
Elevate your party desserts with these bite-sized treats that combine the sweetness of cham cham (a popular Indian dessert) with a crispy, flaky crust. Perfect for serving at gatherings and get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 1/2 cup cham cham mixture (see note)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, melted ghee or butter, confectioner’s sugar, and cham cham mixture until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each bite.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and lemon juice mixture.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Note: Cham cham is a traditional Indian dessert made from milk, sugar, and nuts. You can use store-bought cham cham or make your own by boiling 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1/4 cup of chopped nuts until thickened.
Fusion Cham Cham with Tiramisu Flavors
Fusion Cham Cham with Tiramisu Flavors: A Unique Twist on a Classic Indian Dessert
This innovative dessert combines the traditional Indian sweet treat, cham cham, with the rich and creamy flavors of tiramisu. The result is a unique fusion that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup condensed milk
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon coffee powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1/4 cup whipping cream
– Coffee syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, and condensed milk. Heat over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, coffee powder, and cardamom powder.
3. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Fold in mascarpone cheese and whipping cream until smooth.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
7. If desired, drizzle with coffee syrup.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet world of cham cham recipes! This article brings you 20 delicious and unique cham cham recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From classic Bengali cham cham with rose syrup to fusion recipes like tiramisu-flavored cham cham, there’s something for everyone. Try making chocolate-filled cham cham for a sweet surprise or coconut-coated cham cham for a tropical twist. Whether you’re in the mood for something fruity like mango flavored cham cham or nutty like dry fruit-stuffed cham cham, this list has it all. So go ahead and treat yourself to these scrumptious cham cham recipes!
