Make soft, creamy, and delicious Bengali sandesh in just minutes using ricotta cheese, sugar, and cardamom. This easy microwave sondesh recipe skips the traditional process of making chenna from scratch, making it a quick and fuss-free Indian dessert for festivals and celebrations.
1tablespoonmilk powderoptional, for a firmer texture
1tablespoonchopped pistachios or almondsfor garnish
2-3drops rose essenceoptional
1-2dropsred food color or ⅛ teaspoon beetroot powderoptional
Instructions
Add ricotta cheese to a microwave-safe glass bowl. If there is excess liquid, drain it before using in a mesh strainer.
Microwave on high for 2 minutes. Remove and stir well.
Add powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
Microwave for another 2 minutes, stirring every 30-60 seconds to prevent the mixture from sticking or cooking unevenly.
Add cardamom powder. Mix well.
Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until the mixture thickens, comes together, and starts leaving the sides of the bowl. The mixture should be moist but not runny.
If using milk powder, stir it in during the final stage of cooking.
Add rose essence and food color or beetroot powder if using, mix well. Allow the mixture to cool until comfortable to handle.
Grease your palms lightly with ghee and shape the mixture into small round or oval sandesh. You can also use silicon cupcake molds for a festive touch.
Garnish with chopped pistachios or almonds. Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to help the sandesh set.
Notes
Use whole milk ricotta cheese for a rich and creamy texture.
Drain excess whey from ricotta cheese before cooking for better results.
Powdered sugar blends easily and gives a smooth texture.
Microwave cooking times vary depending on wattage. Cook in short intervals and stir frequently.
Do not overcook, as sandesh can become dry and crumbly.
For a traditional flavor, add cardamom and saffron.
You can flavor sandesh with rose water, mango pulp, or a little cocoa powder for variations.
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.