Ladoo, also spelled as laddu in South India, is a cherished sweet dish that holds a special place in the hearts of people across India. This delightful treat is especially popular during festivals such as Diwali, weddings, and other celebratory occasions. Boondi ladoo is a classic version of this beloved sweet, known for its unique texture and rich flavor. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of making perfect boondi ladoo, just like a pro chef!
Ingredients for Boondi Ladoo
For the Boondi:
- 1 cup Gram flour (Besan)
- Water (as needed)
- Oil (for frying)
- Ghee-fried cashews and raisins (optional, for garnish)
For the Sugar Syrup:
- 1 cup Sugar
- 1/4 cup Water
- 1 tsp Cardamom powder
- A few drops of Yellow food color (optional)
- 1 tsp Lemon Juice
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Boondi Ladoo
- Heat the Oil Properly: Ensure that the oil is hot but not smoking. If the oil is too cool, the boondis will turn out flat. Conversely, if the oil is too hot, the boondis will burn.
- Avoid Crispy Boondis: To achieve soft ladoos, avoid making the boondis crispy. They should be cooked for only about 30 seconds. Overcooking will result in a hard ladoo.
- Clean Your Ladle: Clean your ladle before each batch of boondis to ensure they are uniform in size and texture.
- Perfect Sugar Syrup: Cook the sugar syrup on medium-low heat until it becomes sticky but not too thick. Add the boondis to the syrup when it reaches the right consistency.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Boondi Ladoo
1. Prepare the Boondi Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the gram flour (besan) with enough water to make a smooth batter. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.
- Heat oil in a deep pan for frying.
2. Fry the Boondis
- Using a perforated ladle or boondi maker, pour the batter over the hot oil, allowing it to fall in small droplets.
- Fry the boondis until they are light golden and cooked through. Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Sugar Syrup
- In a separate pan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium-low flame until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add cardamom powder, yellow food color, and lemon juice. Continue to cook until the syrup reaches a sticky consistency but not too thick.
4. Combine Boondis with Sugar Syrup
- Add the fried boondis to the warm sugar syrup. Stir gently to coat the boondis evenly with the syrup.
- Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Shape the Ladoos
- While the mixture is still warm but not too hot, take small portions and shape them into round ladoos using your palms.
- Garnish with ghee-fried cashews and raisins if desired.
Enjoy Your Homemade Boondi Ladoo!

Your homemade boondi ladoo is now ready to be enjoyed! These sweet treats are perfect for sharing with family and friends during festive occasions like Diwali. With this recipe and the tips provided, you can achieve ladoos that are soft, juicy, and just like those from a sweet shop. Enjoy the sweet success of your cooking and celebrate the festival with these delicious ladoos!