Top 10 Winter Sweets in Kolkata to Savor This Season
Winter in Kolkata is a magical time filled with festive cheer, cultural events, and of course, irresistible sweets. The city transforms into a haven for food lovers, offering a variety of winter-special delicacies that highlight the best of Bengali cuisine. Here’s a list of the top 10 winter sweets in Kolkata that are a must-try:
1. Nolen Gur Rosogolla
No winter sweet list is complete without mentioning the iconic Nolen Gur Rosogolla. Made with fresh Nolen Gur (date palm jaggery), these spongy, caramel-flavored sweets are a seasonal delight that melts in your mouth. Available only during winter, they are a true testament to Kolkata’s love for innovative desserts.
2. Patishapta
A quintessential Bengali winter sweet, Patishapta is a crepe-like dessert made from rice flour, stuffed with a delectable mixture of coconut, jaggery, and sometimes khoya. Best enjoyed warm, it’s a favorite treat during the harvest festival of Poush Sankranti.
3. Sandesh with Nolen Gur
Sandesh, the soft and crumbly Bengali sweet, gets a winter twist with the addition of Nolen Gur. Its delicate flavor and creamy texture make it a winter classic. Some shops even create artistic shapes and flavors, enhancing its appeal.
4. Gokul Pithe
Another traditional sweet associated with Poush Sankranti, Gokul Pithe is a deep-fried dumpling made of coconut and jaggery, dipped in sugar syrup. This bite-sized dessert is rich in flavor and perfect for satisfying winter cravings.
5. Kheerer Chop
A fusion of sweet and savory, Kheerer Chop is a winter specialty made with a stuffing of thickened milk (kheer) encased in a crispy, fried exterior. It’s a delightful snack that pairs beautifully with a cup of steaming tea on a chilly evening.
6. Dudh Puli
This traditional dessert consists of rice flour dumplings filled with jaggery and coconut, cooked in thickened milk. The addition of Nolen Gur elevates its taste, making Dudh Puli a comforting and flavorful winter indulgence.
7. Joynagarer Moa
A regional delicacy from Joynagar, this sweet is made with khoi (puffed rice), jaggery, and ghee. Soft, fragrant, and unique in texture, Joynagarer Moa is a prized winter treat and a favorite among locals.
8. Malpua with Nolen Gur
Kolkata’s version of Malpua, a sweet pancake, is elevated during winter with the infusion of Nolen Gur. The rich, syrupy pancakes are indulgent and satisfying, perfect for the season’s festive vibe.
9. Kachagolla with Gur
A lighter alternative to traditional sweets, Kachagolla is a soft, no-cook dessert made from chhena (cottage cheese) and jaggery. It’s less sweet but just as flavorful, making it a favorite for those who prefer subtle desserts.
10. Chhanar Payesh
A rich and creamy dessert, Chhanar Payesh is made with fresh chhena, thickened milk, and jaggery. Garnished with nuts, this luxurious pudding is a winter delight that’s perfect for special occasions.
Where to Find These Winter Sweets in Kolkata?
Kolkata is home to numerous legendary sweet shops like Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick, KC Das, and Bhikharam Chandmal, which offer a variety of these winter delicacies. Street-side stalls and local markets also serve freshly prepared pithes and gur-based sweets, especially during Poush Sankranti.
Winter in Kolkata is incomplete without indulging in these sweet treats. Whether you’re a local or visiting the city, make sure to sample these delicacies to experience the essence of the season. So, grab your favorite winter sweet and savor the warmth of Kolkata’s culinary heritage!
