Red Dragon Fruit Kalakand

A delightful twist to the traditional Indian sweet, this Red Dragon Fruit Kalakand brings a beautiful pink hue and subtle fruity flavor to the classic milk-based dessert. The natural vibrance of dragon fruit makes this mithai perfect for festive platters or special occasions. Soft, melt-in-mouth texture combined with the creamy richness of paneer and milk solids gives this kalakand a luxurious touch—no artificial colors needed!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time : 25–30 minutes
Makes : 6–8 pieces

Ingredients:

½ cup Red dragon fruit puree (from fresh fruit)

1 cup Crumbled paneer (fresh, soft)

2 tbsp Milk powder

3–4 tbsp Sweetener (sugar or jaggery powder, as per taste)

2 tbsp Malai (fresh cream)

2 tbsp Milk

1 tsp Ghee

¼ tsp Cardamom powder

Silver varakh or chopped nuts for garnish

Method:

In a non-stick pan, add the red dragon fruit puree and cook it on medium flame until it thickens and most of the moisture evaporates.

Stir in crumbled paneer , milk powder and sweetner of your choice. Mix well and cook for a few minutes until they blend together smoothly.

Add malai, milk, and ghee. Continue cooking while stirring continuously to prevent sticking.

Keep cooking until the mixture leaves the sides of the pan and forms a soft dough-like mass.

Add cardamom powder and mix well. Turn off the heat.

Transfer the mixture to a greased and lined mould or tray. Spread it evenly and smooth the top.

Allow it to cool completely. Garnish with silver varakh or chopped pistachios.

Once set, cut into squares or diamonds and serve this vibrant sweet chilled or at room temperature.

💖 Tips
You can use store-bought paneer, but fresh homemade paneer gives a softer texture.

Adjust sweetness as per the natural sweetness of dragon fruit.

If you prefer a richer taste, replace malai with condensed milk (reduce sweetener accordingly).

✨ Serving Suggestion
Serve Red Dragon Fruit Kalakand during festivals, get-togethers, or as a unique mithai for gifting. Its natural color and fruity undertone make it a visual and flavorful delight.