Navratri is a time of devotion, fasting, lively celebrations and delicious food. Over nine days, devotees take part in rituals, dance and festivities, with sweets playing a central role in the celebrations. However, with the joy of enjoying festive treats often comes the worry about excess calories, sugar and fried treats that can derail health goals. By using healthier alternatives like jaggery, nuts, millet flour and superfoods like makhana and sweet potato, you can enjoy delicious desserts that are both nutritious and festive.

Navratri 2025: 5 sweets you must try

Here are five healthy Navratri sweet recipes that are suitable for calorie-conscious individuals so that you can enjoy the festive atmosphere without any guilt.

1. Makhana kheer

Makhana, also known as fox nuts or lotus seeds, are rich in protein, calcium and antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for a nutritious dessert.

How to prepare:

• Lightly roast 1 cup of makhanas in 1 tablespoon of ghee until they become crispy.
• Coarsely crush the roasted makhanas and add them to 4 cups of boiling milk.
• Cook over low heat until the mixture thickens (about 15-20 minutes).
• Sweeten with jaggery to taste (about ½ cup) and cook until the jaggery has melted.
• Garnish with chopped almonds and pistachios before serving.

Why it’s healthy: “Makhana kheer is low in calories yet high in protein, making it a filling option that supports gut health. This delicious dessert is perfect for fasting and will keep you feeling satisfied without compromising your nutritional goals.” Dt. Deepali SharmaClinical nutritionist at CK Birla Hospital, tells Health Shots.

2. Singhara atta halwa

Singhara, also called water chestnut flour, is widely used during fasting and is not only delicious, but also provides a good energy boost.

How to prepare:

• Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a pan and roast 1 cup of Singha flour until it turns golden brown.
• Gradually add 2 cups of warm water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Sweeten with fresh jaggery (about ¾ cup) and a pinch of cardamom powder.
• Cook until it reaches a consistency similar to halwa.

Why it’s healthy: “Singhara flour is gluten-free, high in fiber and provides a quick energy boost. The addition of ghee adds healthy fats and vitamin D, which adds to the nutritional value,” says the clinical nutritionist.

3. Sweet potato halwa

Sweet potatoes are naturally packed with fiber and antioxidants, making them an excellent base for various recipes during Navratri.

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How to prepare:

• Boil two medium sweet potatoes and mash them until smooth.
• Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a pan and add the sweet potato puree.
• Sweeten the mixture with jaggery (about ½ cup) and finish with a pinch of cardamom and a handful of ground nuts for garnish.

Why it’s healthy: “Sweet potato halwa is a nutritious dessert that contains fiber and complex carbohydrates. It provides a slow release of energy, keeping you energized during fasting, without the blood sugar spikes associated with refined sweets,” says the clinical nutritionist.

4. Coconut ladoo with jaggery

Coconut is a traditional ingredient in many festive recipesand combining it with jaggery creates a delectable treat that is both nutritious and indulgent.

How to prepare:

• Grate 2 cups of fresh coconut and lightly roast it in a pan with a tablespoon of ghee.
• Add melted jaggery (about 1 cup) to the roasted coconut and mix well until the mixture sets and thickens.
• Form the mixture into small ladoos and garnish with chopped nuts.

Why it’s healthy: “Coconut provides healthy fats, while cane sugar adds iron and minerals. The result is not only delicious, but also energy-boosting and perfect for any festive occasion,” says the clinical nutritionist.

5. Rajgira or amaranth dry fruit ladoo/kheer

Rajgira, also known as amaranth, is a gluten-free grain that is rich in protein and packed with important micronutrients, making it a fantastic option during the Navratri festival.

How to prepare:

• For ladoos: Mix 1 cup of roasted rajgira flour with a warm jaggery syrup (made from ½ cup of jaggery and ¼ cup of water) and add various dry fruits. Roll the mixture into small balls.
• For kheer: Boil 1 cup of rajgira in 4 cups of milk, sweeten it with jaggery and add cardamom for flavour.

Why it’s healthy: “Rajgira is an excellent source of protein and fiber and contains important minerals such as calcium and magnesium. The addition of milk and nuts improves the nutritional profile and makes for a delicious and healthy dessert,” says the Clinical Nutritionist.