Badam Kheer Recipe – How to Make Badam Milk at Home for Guests

In Indian households, welcoming guests with a delicious drink is a timeless tradition. While options like rose sharbat and lemon water are common, Badam Kheer or Badam Milk stands out for its richness, taste, and health benefits. This almond-based drink is warm, mildly sweet, aromatic, and perfect for both everyday serving and special occasions.

Made with soaked almonds, milk, saffron, and cardamom, badam kheer is more than just a beverage. It’s a comforting, traditional welcome drink that doubles as a dessert, especially during festive gatherings and family functions.

What Is Badam Kheer?

Badam kheer is a creamy Indian almond pudding made by simmering milk with ground almonds, sugar, and aromatic spices. Unlike badam milk which is slightly thinner and drinkable, badam kheer has a thicker consistency and is often served warm or chilled in small bowls.

This versatile drink works well as a welcome refreshment, post-meal dessert, or even a nourishing bedtime drink. It’s commonly served during weddings, poojas, and festivals like Diwali, Raksha Bandhan, or Holi.

Ingredients for Badam Kheer

To make about 3 to 4 servings, you’ll need:

• ¼ cup almonds (around 30 pieces)
• 2½ cups full cream milk
• ¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon fine rava/semolina (optional for thickness)
• A pinch of saffron strands
• ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1 teaspoon ghee (optional)
• Chopped pistachios and almond slivers for garnish

Always use fresh and good-quality almonds. For a vegan version, almond milk can replace dairy milk, though the flavor may vary slightly.

How to Prepare Badam Kheer – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Soak the Almonds

Soak almonds in hot water for 30 minutes or in regular water overnight. This softens the skin and makes peeling easier. Once soaked, peel the almonds and discard the skins.

Step 2: Grind into Paste

Add the peeled almonds to a mixer with 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk. Grind into a smooth, thick paste. Set aside. This is the base of your kheer and should be lump-free.

Step 3: Heat the Milk

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring milk to a gentle boil. Reduce to low flame and simmer. Add saffron strands and stir gently so they infuse color and aroma.

Step 4: Cook the Almond Paste

Add the almond paste to the simmering milk. Stir continuously to avoid lumps. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes on low flame.

Step 5: Add Sugar and Flavorings

Stir in sugar and let it dissolve. Add cardamom powder for a subtle spice. At this point, you can also add semolina if you want a thicker consistency, but this is optional.

Step 6: Optional Ghee Tempering

For added richness, heat a teaspoon of ghee in a small pan and fry a few chopped nuts like cashews or almonds. Add this to the kheer for a restaurant-style touch.

Step 7: Serve Warm or Chilled

Once the badam kheer thickens slightly and turns creamy, remove it from heat. Serve warm in cups or chill in the fridge and serve cold in small bowls, garnished with pistachio slivers.

Badam Milk Variation

If you prefer a thinner, drinkable version, reduce the amount of almond paste and sugar. You can also strain the milk before serving for a smooth finish. Serve it warm in glasses as a soothing bedtime drink or a festive treat.

Why Badam Kheer Makes a Great Welcome Drink

• Traditional and elegant: Adds a personal, cultural touch to guest hosting
• Nutritious: Rich in protein, healthy fats, and calcium
• Customizable: Can be served hot or cold depending on the season
• Festive-ready: Suitable for pujas, celebrations, and festive menus
• Unique: Stands apart from the usual soft drinks or sodas

Health Benefits of Badam Kheer

• Supports energy levels: Almonds are a natural energy booster
• Good for brain health: Almonds contain nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium
• Rich in antioxidants: Saffron and cardamom support digestion and immunity
• Natural sweetener option: Jaggery can be used in place of sugar for a healthier version
• Aids relaxation: Warm badam milk is known to calm the nerves and improve sleep quality

Tips for Best Results

• Always stir the kheer continuously after adding the almond paste to avoid sticking
• Do not boil on high flame, or milk may curdle
• Use fresh saffron and cardamom for authentic flavor
• Adjust sugar carefully after tasting, as ripe almonds may have natural sweetness
• Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning or scorching

Storage Suggestions

Store leftover badam kheer in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Always reheat on low flame if serving warm. Do not freeze, as the texture may separate once thawed.

Serving Ideas

• Serve chilled in kulhads or small glasses as a welcome drink
• Offer warm in small bowls as part of a traditional thali meal
• Pour into shot glasses and garnish with silver vark for special occasions

Conclusion

Badam kheer is not just a dessert. It’s a heartfelt way of showing hospitality and warmth to your guests. Rich, aromatic, and deeply rooted in Indian traditions, it’s a drink that creates memories with every sip. Whether served at home or during a festive event, this almond milk preparation adds a touch of luxury to any meal.