By Kaushik Brahmakshatriya

Published On 26 March 2026.

If you are looking for a rich, creamy, and effortless Indian dessert, Shrikhand is your answer. This beloved sweet dish has been a staple in Gujarati and Maharashtrian households for centuries. Made with just a few simple ingredients — hung curd, powdered sugar, and cardamom — Shrikhand delivers an irresistible flavor that feels indulgent yet light. Whether it is a festive celebration, a Sunday meal, or a quick treat, this dessert never disappoints.
In this blog post, you will learn everything about Shrikhand — its origin, ingredients, step-by-step recipe, variations, and expert tips to make it perfect every time.

What Is Shrikhand?

Shrikhand (also spelled Shrikand or Srikhand) is a traditional Indian dessert made from strained yogurt (hung curd). The word comes from Sanskrit “Shikharini,” meaning a sweet preparation of curd with sugar and spices. It is a popular dessert during festivals like Janmashtami, Gudi Padwa, and served alongside Puri for a classic combo known as Puri-Shrikhand.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. No cooking, no complex methods — just patience as the yogurt drains and a few minutes of mixing.

Ingredients for Shrikhand

Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Straining Time: 6–8 hours | Total Time: 30 minutes (active)
Main Ingredients:
* 1 kg full-fat plain yogurt (curd)
* ¾ cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
* 1 teaspoon cardamom powder (elaichi)
* A pinch of saffron (kesar) soaked in 2 tablespoons warm milk
Optional Add-ons:
* 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios and almonds
* ¼ teaspoon nutmeg powder
* 1 teaspoon rose water for a floral touch

How to Make Shrikhand – Step-by-Step

Step 1 – Prepare Hung Curd
Line a large strainer or colander with a clean muslin cloth (or a thin cotton cloth). Pour the yogurt into it. Tie the cloth tightly and hang it over the sink or place it over a bowl in the refrigerator. Let the whey drain out for 6 to 8 hours or overnight. The result is thick, creamy hung curd with no excess water.
Tip: Always use full-fat yogurt for a richer and creamier Shrikhand. Low-fat yogurt tends to be watery and lacks the same texture.
Step 2 – Soak the Saffron
Soak a few saffron strands in 2 tablespoons of warm milk. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes until the milk turns golden yellow. This step enhances both the color and aroma of your Shrikhand.
Step 3 – Mix the Ingredients
Once the hung curd is ready, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Add powdered sugar and mix well using a whisk or spatula. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Now add the saffron milk, cardamom powder, and nutmeg (if using). Mix everything evenly. You can also fold in the chopped nuts at this stage or use them only for garnish.
Step 4 – Chill and Serve
Transfer the Shrikhand into a serving bowl or individual dessert cups. Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving. Garnish with saffron strands, crushed pistachios, and a light dusting of cardamom powder.
Serve chilled on its own or alongside hot Puri for a traditional experience.

Popular Shrikhand Variations

Once you master the basic recipe, try these exciting twists:
*Amrakhand – Add fresh mango pulp for a fruity, seasonal version. Perfect for summer.
* Keshar Pista – Extra saffron and pistachios for a royal Mughal-inspired flavor.
*Chocolate Shrikhand – Stir in cocoa powder and grated dark chocolate for a fusion treat.
*Rose Shrikhand – Add rose syrup and dried rose petals for a romantic floral version.

Expert Tips for the Best Shrikhand

• Always use full-fat, fresh yogurt — it yields the thickest hung curd
• Do not rush the straining process. The longer the whey drains, the creamier the result.
• Taste the Shrikhand before chilling and adjust sugar according to your preference.
• Use freshly ground cardamom for the most aromatic flavor.
• Shrikhand stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I use store-bought Greek yogurt instead of making hung curd?
Yes! Greek yogurt is already strained and works as a great shortcut. Just skip the straining step and proceed directly to mixing.
Q2. Is Shrikhand healthy?
Shrikhand is rich in protein and calcium from yogurt. However, it contains sugar, so enjoy it in moderation. You can reduce the sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey for a lighter version.
Q3. What is the difference between Shrikhand and Chakka?
Chakka is simply the name for hung curd (strained yogurt) in Marathi. Shrikhand is the final dessert made by sweetening and flavoring Chakka.
Q4. Can Shrikhand be frozen?
It is best enjoyed fresh and chilled. Freezing changes the texture and is not recommended

Final Thoughts

Shrikhand is one of those timeless Indian desserts that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. Whether you make the classic version or experiment with mango, rose, or chocolate, this creamy delight always wins hearts. Try this recipe at home and bring a taste of traditional India to your table.