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Sitaphal Basundi: Creamy Custard Apple Dessert

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Sitaphal Basundi is a rich, creamy Indian dessert made by reducing full-fat milk and flavoring it with sugar, cardamom, and fresh custard apple pulp. Served chilled, it’s a festive and refreshing treat.

prep time 15 Mins
cook time 45 Mins
chef Ankita Singh
Sitaphal Basundi

Basundi is a traditional Indian dessert made by slow-cooking milk until it thickens and develops a luscious texture. While classic basundi is flavored with cardamom, saffron, or nuts, this seasonal twist incorporates custard apple (sitaphal) pulp, which adds a natural sweetness and fruity aroma.
The custard apple is mixed into the cooled basundi, ensuring its delicate flavor and creamy texture remain intact. The result is a dessert that’s luxuriously smooth, mildly spiced, and delightfully fruity. It’s perfect for festivals like Diwali, Navratri, or as a chilled after-meal indulgence.
This dish is best enjoyed cold, garnished with nuts and dried rose petals for an elegant touch. Since it’s both rich and refreshing, it appeals to all ages and makes an impressive centerpiece for special occasions.

Step 1

Boil and Reduce Milk

Pour the milk into a heavy-bottomed pan and bring it to a gentle boil.

 

Lower the heat to medium and simmer, stirring frequently, until it reduces to half its original volume (about 35–40 minutes). Scrape the sides of the pan to mix the cream back into the milk.

Boil and Reduce Milk
Step 2

Sweeten and Flavor

Once reduced, add sugar and cardamom powder. Stir until dissolved and cook for another 3–4 minutes.

 

Remove from heat and cover the pan to prevent a cream (malai) layer from forming.

 

Step 3

Cool and Add Custard Apple

Let the basundi cool completely to room temperature.

 

Gently fold in the custard apple pulp. Mixing while hot can curdle the milk, so this step is crucial.

Cool and Add Custard Apple
Step 4

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for 2–3 hours for best flavor.

 

Garnish with slivered nuts and dried rose petals before serving.

Chill and Serve

Tips and Tricks

  1. Always cool before adding fruit: Sitaphal should only be added once the milk has cooled to prevent curdling. 
  2. Choice of milk: Use full-fat milk for the best texture; toned or skim milk will result in a thinner dessert. 
  3. Sugar adjustment: The sweetness of custard apple varies; adjust sugar accordingly. 
  4. Make ahead: You can prepare the basundi a day in advance and mix the fruit just before serving. 
  5. Flavor variations: Add a pinch of saffron soaked in warm milk for an extra festive touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Replace part of the reduced milk and sugar with ½ cup condensed milk. This will give a richer flavor and cut down cooking time.

 It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze as the texture of custard apple changes.

Yes. Chikoo (sapota) and mango pulp also work beautifully with basundi, but always add them after cooling.

You can reduce or replace sugar with a diabetic-friendly sweetener, but keep in mind custard apple itself is naturally sweet and higher in sugar.

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