Looking for a festive, rich, and elegant Indian dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? These Dry Fruit Kulfi Sticks served in Shot Glasses are the ultimate bite-sized indulgence. Creamy, dense, and flavored with cardamom, saffron, and a medley of nuts, this no-churn kulfi is an eye-catching way to serve a traditional favorite — in perfect mini portions.
Ideal for parties, wedding menus, Diwali celebrations, or just treating yourself, these kulfi sticks are not only fun to eat but also a feast for the eyes. The shot glass presentation adds a modern, mess-free twist to an age-old classic.
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
- Traditional flavor, modern twist: Classic kulfi flavors served in chic, individual portions
- No ice cream maker required: No-churn and ultra-easy
- Loaded with nuts: Pistachios, almonds, and cashews in every bite
- Perfect for parties: Pre-portioned, handheld, and mess-free
- Rich & creamy: Made with reduced milk or condensed milk for authentic kulfi texture
Ingredients
For the Kulfi Base:
- 2 cups full-fat milk
- ½ cup condensed milk (adjust sweetness as needed)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- ¼ cup milk powder (for richness)
- ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder
- 1 pinch saffron strands, soaked in 1 tbsp warm milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
For the Dry Fruits:
- 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
- 2 tablespoons chopped almonds
- 1 tablespoon chopped cashews
- 1 tablespoon raisins or chopped dates (optional)
For Serving:
- Mini shot glasses
- Wooden ice cream sticks or candy sticks
- Finely chopped nuts or rose petals (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Kulfi Mixture
In a heavy-bottomed pan, bring the full-fat milk to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer until reduced to about 1½ cups, stirring often.
Add condensed milk, milk powder, sugar, and cream. Stir well to combine and cook for 5–7 more minutes on low heat, stirring to avoid sticking.
Add saffron milk, cardamom powder, and the chopped dry fruits. Mix well and simmer for another 2 minutes. Turn off the heat.
Let the kulfi mixture cool to room temperature.
2. Fill the Shot Glasses
Pour the cooled kulfi mixture into clean shot glasses, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Insert a wooden stick in the center of each glass. (If needed, cover with foil and poke a small hole in the center to hold the stick upright.)
3. Freeze Until Set
Place the shot glasses upright in the freezer and freeze for 6–8 hours, or overnight, until fully set and firm.
4. Serve & Garnish
Before serving, let the glasses sit at room temperature for 2–3 minutes. Gently twist and pull the stick to release the kulfi. (If stuck, dip the bottom of the glass briefly in warm water.)
Garnish with extra nuts, saffron strands, or edible rose petals. Serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Kulfi Sticks
- Use full-fat dairy for creamier results.
- Simmer slowly to avoid scorching and to concentrate flavor.
- Toast nuts lightly before adding for deeper flavor and crunch.
- Add rose water or kewra essence for a more traditional aroma.
- Use silicone mini molds if you don’t have shot glasses.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Make ahead: Kulfi can be made 2–3 days in advance.
- Freeze: Keep frozen for up to 2 weeks, covered tightly to prevent freezer burn.
- No-stick trick: Use popsicle molds or grease shot glasses lightly with ghee before pouring the kulfi.
Flavor Variations
- Mango Kulfi: Add ¼ cup mango puree after cooling the milk mixture.
- Chocolate Kulfi: Stir in 2 tbsp cocoa powder and a bit of melted dark chocolate.
- Rose Kulfi: Add 1 tsp rose syrup or gulkand to the mixture.
- Malai Kulfi: Skip the nuts and use only thickened milk and cream for a smooth, pure version.
FAQs
Can I skip condensed milk?
Yes, you can use only reduced milk and sugar, but condensed milk adds creaminess and sweetness.
How do I keep the stick straight?
Cover the glass with foil, poke a small hole in the center, and insert the stick through it — this holds it upright while freezing.
Can I make this vegan?
Try using coconut milk, cashew cream, and plant-based condensed milk alternatives.
Final Thoughts
These Dry Fruit Kulfi Sticks in Shot Glasses are the perfect fusion of traditional Indian dessert and modern presentation. Rich, creamy, and packed with crunchy nuts, they’re an elegant and festive way to serve kulfi at your next event — or just for a refreshing summer treat.
No molds? No problem. Just grab your shot glasses and enjoy the magic of kulfi on a stick.
