Travel DiariesFood & CuisineMouth - watering traditional desserts to try in KeralaMouth - watering traditional desserts to try in Kerala September 4, 2023MuteWhen it comes to desserts, the state of Kerala sure knows how to satisfy your sweet cravings. Often called the land of spices and coconuts, Kerala boasts a rich culinary heritage that includes an array of decadent traditional dessert options. Get ready to embark on a delightful journey through flavours and textures that will make your taste buds jump with joy.From the captivating aroma of coconut to the rich flavour of jaggery, let's embark on an enchanting expedition to find the most coveted traditional desserts that grace Kerala's dining tables:Palada Payasam : A symphony of eleganceA delectable rice pudding, captures the essence of Kerala's culinary artistry. Fragrant grains of rice cooked in milk and flavoured with cardamom and ghee create a symphony of elegance on the palette. Every spoonful of this creamy delight is a tribute to tradition, making it a timeless dish cherished during festive occasions and family gatherings.Unniyappam : Delightful bites of nostalgiaUnniyappam is a snack that transcends generations and evokes nostalgia in every bite. Made from rice flour, jaggery, banana, and coconut, these little fried wonders are a blend of sweet and warm flavours. The rhythmic sizzle of the batter hitting the hot oil fills the air with an irresistible aroma, reminiscent of festivities and joyous moments.Neyyappam : Ghee-infused perfectionNeyyappam, a treasure of Kerala's culinary heritage, brings the richness of ghee to life. Prepared using rice flour, jaggery, and bananas - these soft, ghee-infused fritters will tantalise your taste buds with their delicate sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Each bite is a testament to the culinary expertise that turns simple ingredients into a sublime indulgence.Ada Pradhaman : A nutty extravaganzaAda Pradhaman, a traditional rice and jaggery dessert, celebrates the art of blending textures and flavours. Thin rice flakes, cooked in coconut milk, and infused with the rich essence of jaggery, cardamom, and roasted coconut, create a nutty flavour that is as delightful to the soul as it is to the taste buds.Parippu Pradhaman : A lentil love affairParippu Pradhaman, a divine concoction of lentils, jaggery, and coconut milk, is the epitome of Kerala's culinary ingenuity. Mung beans slow cooked to perfection, combined with the sweetness of jaggery and the creaminess of coconut milk, result in a dessert that captures the true essence of Kerala’s traditional flavours in every velvety spoonful.Chakka Pradhaman : The king of sweets in KeralaChakka Pradhaman, also known as jackfruit Payasam, is the crown jewel of Kerala's dessert repertoire. Made from ripe jackfruit, coconut milk, and jaggery, this luscious creation exudes an unparalleled blend of tropical sweetness and creaminess. With each bite, you are transported to Kerala's lush orchards and the magic of its landscapes.Kozhikode Halwa : A sweet artistryKozhikode Halwa, a masterpiece of a dessert, showcases the ingenuity of Kerala's sweets. Made from wheat, ghee, and jaggery, this sweet delight entices with its mesmerising aroma and complex flavour profile. The method of slow cooking in a huge iron vessel adds a touch of tradition, making every bite an exquisite experience.Elaneer Payasam : A tropical euphoriaElaneer Payasam, a refreshing coconut water dessert, offers a tropical euphoria that's unique to Kerala's coastal charm. Tender coconut water, infused with jaggery, tender coconut pulp, and a touch of cardamom, creates a symphony of flavours that soothe and invigorate. With every spoonful, you are transported to Kerala's serene beaches and swaying palm trees.Indulge in the rich and diverse flavours of Kerala's desserts while enjoying mesmerising views of the Arabian Sea at The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel or revel in the serene views of the lake at The Leela Ashtamudi, A Raviz Hotel. Immerse yourself in a culinary journey that brings the authentic tastes of Kerala's traditional sweets right to your table. Whether it's the velvety Palada Payasam or the intricate textures of Unniyappam, every dessert is a tribute to the region's culinary craftsmanship. PREVIOUS ARTICLENEXT ARTICLEKeep ReadingGourmet food at a social distanceWhy is seafood a specialty in Kerala?Gastronomic havens at The Leela MumbaiNutritional benefits of fresh water fishesMust try seafood dishes in AshtamudiJamavar: A guide to the best fine dining restaurant in Chennai for Indian cuisines