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–+ servings
Pista Kulfi Ice cream
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Kulfi Ice cream (Authentic Indian Recipe)

A luscious, creamy Indian ice cream delicately flavored with pistachios and cardamom. Perfect for a make-ahead dessert.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Chill Time6 hours
Total Time7 hours
Course: Dessert, ice cream
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Authentic Indian Recipe, Pista Kulfi Ice cream
Servings: 8 People
Calories: 58kcal

Ingredients

  • 250 ml 1 cup full-fat milk
  • 250 ml 1 cup double cream or heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
  • 3 tablespoons milk powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 2 teaspoons rosewater optional
  • 50 g finely chopped or coarsely ground pistachio nuts plus extra for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Method

  • Pour the milk and cream into a heavy saucepan. Bring just to a simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
  • Stir in the condensed milk, milk powder, cardamom, sugar, and rosewater if using. Mix well and cook gently over low heat for another 5–7 minutes, stirring often.
  • Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the chopped pistachios. Mix thoroughly and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
  • Pour the cooled mixture into kulfi moulds, popsicle moulds, or a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top. Freeze overnight until completely firm.
  • To serve, briefly dip the moulds in hot water for 2–3 seconds, then slide the kulfi out onto serving plates. Garnish with extra chopped pistachios and serve immediately.

Notes

Ingredient swaps:
  • Use almonds or cashews for a nutty variation
  • Replace condensed milk with khoya for a richer traditional version
  • Swap sugar with jaggery for earthy sweetness
Technique tips:
  • Keep stirring milk to avoid sticking or burning
  • Finer pistachio pieces give a smoother kulfi; larger chunks add crunch
  • Cover molds with foil before freezing to avoid ice crystals
Make-ahead and storage:
  • Keeps well frozen for up to 2 weeks
  • Store in airtight containers or molds for best texture
  • Do not refreeze once melted
Serving ideas:
  • Serve on sticks, in bowls, or in earthen matkas
  • Pair with falooda for a festive treat
  • Garnish with rose petals for special occasions
Twist ideas:
  • Saffron pista kulfi: Add saffron milk for extra aroma
  • Chocolate pista kulfi: Stir in cocoa powder for fusion flavor
  • Fruit twist: Top with mango or lychee before serving

Nutrition

Calories: 58kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 23mg | Potassium: 76mg | Fiber: 0.04g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 53IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 55mg | Iron: 0.1mg