Easy kulfi recipe that is sure going impress your family and friends! A SUPER CREAMY pistachio kulfi ice cream that is flavored with saffron and cardamom will soon become your go-to kulfi recipe every summer.
We love the magical combination of cardamom and saffron in Indian desserts! Few of our favorite recipes with this combo - Mango milk, Eggless Mango Mug Cake or this hugely popular Rasamalai Tres Leches Cake.
As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases through our affiliate link. For more information read our Non-Disclosure Agreement.
Kulfi Recipe
Bringing you possibly the best kulfi ice cream that you have ever tasted!!! Let me begin by saying that is not a traditional recipe of making homemade kulfi. But, it tastes super authentic and is so much more easier to make. This recipe has been one of our popular recipe every summer since it was published.
Reader feedback
Tasneem Ammar Nurbhai writes "I have tried a lot of kulfi recipes, but this is the best kulfi recipe I have made so far. The texture and flavor is just amazing and very appetizing. My husband and son totally love it! Thank you very much for sharing it with us!"
Sonal writes "This is such a simple but awesome recipe. I have never made kulfi before and when I made this recipe for a family dinner my family absolutely loved it. This has become my go to dessert recipe"
Raj writes "I made this and oh my god.. so so good! My husband loves kulfi and this came out awesome!!! Thank you 😊"
Radhika writes "This is a great recipe. Dad loves kulfi and he has tried and tested so many but this was by far the best and he agreed. Great texture and flavour. Went down a treat when mum and dad were visiting from Spain. Thank you Maria. I can’t wait to try your recipes from the air fryer section"
What is kulfi?
Kulfi is a traditional Indian ice cream, but more denser. It is usually made be boiling milk over low heat for a long period, until it has reduced considerably in volume and then sweetened, flavored and frozen in small earthen pot molds known an "Matki".
But, aluminum / stainless steel / plastic molds are widely used in modern times. It is almost uncommon to find kulfi served in scoops like ice cream. Some recipes include using thickening agents like cornstarch or bread crumbs to give a more creamier consistency.
Kulfi ice cream comes in various flavors such as cardamon, saffron, mango, rose, pistachio, almond, orange and strawberry.
This Method vs Traditional Method
Traditional method
- Time consuming
- Laborious
- Dense
- More icy
Our method
- Almost no-cook
- Super easy
- Amazingly creamy
- Light
Yet, IT TASTES SUPER AUTHENTIC!!!
I love this pistachio kulfi recipe so much. It has been a family and friends favorite for decades and reader favorite since it has been posted.
No ice cream maker required
Making ice cream at home requires an ice cream maker to get a creamy texture without any ice crystals and can be temperamental at worst. This method avoids all of that and still get your licks in. It only takes a hand mixer, a couple of bowls and three main ingredients to make.
Most homemade ice creams start with an egg custard base that is cooked with a watch full eye so you don't end up with scrambled eggs. This recipe uses no eggs, so there is NO ROOM FOR ERROR.
Why are you going to love this?
It is incredibly easy to make by using the no churn method of making ice cream, making it an ALMOST a no-cook recipe. This method also guarantees an ultra creamy texture without an ice cream maker. Most importantly, this is an eggless recipe, making it perfect for vegetarians.
It is perfect for dinner parties, get togethers or just for your family, since this recipe requires to be made ahead and stored in the freezer. It is so much fun to eat as popsicles or in a mold.
Kulfi moulds
As we mentioned earlier, kulfi is traditionally frozen in molds. You could use any popsicle molds that you have on hand. Don't have any moulds? Transfer kulfi mixture into any freezer safe container and freeze until firm. Scoop kulfi ice cream into serving cups.
We used these Dixie paper cups and Popsicle sticks. You can use any popsicle mould that you have around.
Flavorings
Traditional recipes are usually flavored with either cardamom, saffron, rose, mango, or pistachios. We loved the magical combination of pistachio, saffron and cardamom for this recipe to make the most delicious kulfi you have ever tasted.
How to make cardamom powder?
Grind about ¼ cup green cardamoms to a fine powder in a dry grinder and measure as needed for the recipe. I usually grind much more than that and store cardamom powder in a sealed zip lock bag and place in the freezer. This stays fresh for months.
Can I make it without molds?
Sure can! Make ice cream as instructed, transfer to a freezer safe container, seal tight and freeze overnight. To serve - scoop ice cream using an ice cream scoop, into serving bowls.
Key ingredients
This homemade kulfi recipe requires only 2 main ingredients like heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk. The flavorings include saffron, cardamom powder and pistachios for some crunch.
Pro Tips for Success
Get the right ingredients. Because this recipe requires so few ingredients, it’s important that you buy exactly what’s listed in the recipe card below. Don’t try to substitute low fat or lower sugar alternatives otherwise your kulfi won’t turn out right.
Use freshly ground cardamom for best flavor.
Do not use low fat condensed milk or half & half instead. This is an indulgent dessert after all!
How to make kulfi?
Steep saffron- Make saffron cream. Let half the cream come to a boil, stir in saffron and let hang out for a day in the refrigerator (refer picture above).
Make ice cream - Beat saffron cream and remaining cream, until thick and soft peaks form (refer picture below). Add sweetened condensed milk, pistachios and cardamom powder, beat to combine well (refer pictures above).
Freeze - Pour into your favorite molds, insert popsicle sticks or into a freezer safe container and freeze until solid.
How long does this last?
This recipe will last for one to two months in the freezer. Keep the container tightly sealed to ward off freezer burn.
More cardamom flavored recipes: Cardamom Cookies, Zucchini Cardamom Cupcakes , Cashew Snowball Cookies, Mango Clafoutis or Chai Cake in a Mug.
Frequently asked questions:
This recipe makes 12 servings. When using Dixie cups, I was able to make about 15-16 cups.
The reason for heating the cream is for saffron to infuse into the cream, which gives the main kulfi flavor.
This homemade kulfi is good frozen for up to a month.
More Kulfi recipes to try -
- Almond Kulfi
- Mango Kulfi Ice cream
- Strawberry Kulfi
- Chocolate Kulfi
- Kulfi Ice Cream Cake
- Black Sesame Ice Cream
Follow me on INSTAGRAM, TIK TOK, FACEBOOK or PINTEREST for more delicious recipes.
Easy Kulfi Recipe (easiest and creamiest)
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream, divided
- ½ teaspoon saffron threads
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon cardamom powder
- ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons raw pistachios, chopped, divided
Additional ingredients
Instructions
Day-1
- Into a small saucepan, add 1 cup heavy cream and saffron. Heat over low-medium heat, until it comes to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Transfer cream into a covered container and refrigerate until completely cold (at least 5 hours or up to a day).
Day-2
- Into a large bowl, combine saffron soaked heavy cream and remaining 1 cup heavy cream. Beat with hand held electric beater (on high speed) until thick and softly whipped (when soft peaks begin to form), about 1 ½ minutes.
- Into the whipped saffron cream, add sweetened condensed milk, cardamom powder and 3 tablespoons chopped pistachios. Whip again for about 30 seconds, until mixed completely.
To make easy Kulfi moulds
- Transfer mixture into popsicle molds or paper cups. Sprinkle remaining chopped pistachios on top, insert popsicle sticks and place in freezer overnight. ( If using paper cups – when ready to eat, snip off a bit of the cup and peel off pop)
To make easy Kulfi ice cream
- Transfer mixture into a freezer safe container, sprinkle remaining chopped pistachios on top. Cover and freeze overnight. To serve, scoop kulfi into serving bowls.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutritional information is based on third party calculations, should be considered estimates and not be construed as a guarantee. Varying factors such as product types, brands purchased, produce, the way ingredients are processed and more change the nutritional information in any recipe.
Did you make this recipe? I’d love your feedback! Please let me know by leaving a comment or review below or snap a photo and share on Instagram.
All contents and images are my original work, unless and otherwise mentioned. Please do not use my recipes or images without linking back to www.kitchenathoskins.com. If you wish to republish a recipe, please rewrite in your own words and don’t forget to include a link back to the original recipe.
Some of the links above are affiliate links, which pay me a small commission for my referral at no extra cost to you! I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Thank you for supporting kitchenathoskins.com.
Kelsie | the itsy-bitsy kitchen
These sound delicious! I love anything with cardamom :). I think I need at least three to get me through today--it's so humid here right now!
Maria Doss
Lol Kelsie, have a great weekend dear:)
Kelly @ Kelly Lynns Sweets and Treats
Wow Maria! The flavors in this sound amazing!! And creamy is always good 🙂 xoxo
Maria Doss
Right? Creamy for the win!!!
Patrick@looneyforfood.com
They sound indulgent for sure! Love new flavors!
Maria Doss
Thanks Patrick!
Sues
These are so unique and gorgeous! The more cardamom, the better, in my eyes 🙂
Maria Doss
Thank you dear:)
Deepika|TheLoveOfCakes
My dad loves Kulfi!! He loves all traditional Indian sweets with the typical elaichi and kesar flavor! This is so perfect:)I am making this for him :D! Love this!
Maria Doss
The bells of kulfi walla in the night, was always a fond memory:) Hope your dad loves this, thanks Deepika:)
Kim | The Baking ChocolaTess
I would love to try this, it looks amazing, colorful and delicious!! YUM!
Maria Doss
It's the popular no-churn ice cream but with Indian flavors!! Thanks to saffron for that stunning color!!! Hope you love this, Kim:)
Lani
You're very creative, Maria. This KULFI is sooo inviting. I'll definitely try it, soon. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Maria Doss
Thank you so much for your support dear:) This will sure become a go-to summer recipe. XOXO
Kalyan Panja
The photos are inviting me to taste it right now.
Maria Doss
Thank you so much:)
Jenny | The Baking Skillet
This is bringing on so much nostalgia. The basic, classic flavors, the colors and the pistachio crust! Such a delightful summer treat.
Maria Doss
Yep! The late night kulfi wala was such a treasured part of my childhood. Thanks Jenny:)
Katherine | Love In My Oven
This is so unique Maria. I love it!! My husband loves Indian flavours and would certainly enjoy these. We will have to try!!
Maria Doss
Sure Kathy. He'll totally love it:)
Jessica
Hi
I need to know what is heavy cream. I,m in Canada u get whipping cream, half and half
What should I use
Thanks
Maria Doss
Heavy cream also known as " heavy whipping cream" in US. Whipping cream is the same, but not half & half. Hope it helps.
Kate
Looks gorgeous . We call heavy cream double cream in the UK.
Maria Doss
Thanks dear:)
Sany
How many servings is this recipe?
Maria Doss
Hi Sany, It makes 12 servings. When using Dixie cups,I was able to make about 15-16 cups. Hope it helps:)
Tasneem Ammar Nurbhai
I have tried a lot of kulfi recipes, but this is the best kulfi recipe I have made so far. The texture and flavor is just amazing and very appetizing. My husband and son totally love it! Thank you very much for sharing it with us!
Maria Doss
Yay! Glad you liked this kulfi recipe and thank you for sharing the feedback:)
Ina Shah
I made this today and simply loved the recipe, the taste and how easy it is. Thank you for sharing😋
Sonal
This is such a simple but awesome recipe. I have never made kulfi before and when I made this recipe for a family dinner my family absolutely loved it. This has become my go to dessert recipe.
Raj
I made this and oh my god.. so so good! My husband loves kulfi and this came out awesome!!! Thank you 😊
yasmin Udawala
is it necessary to heat the cream? could i not whip it right away instead?
Maria Doss
The reason for heating the cream is for saffron to infuse into the cream, which gives the main kulfi flavor. Hope it helps:)
Ekta Doctor
Hi Maria. This looks great. How long can this be kept frozen?
Maria Doss
Hi Ekta, It is good for a month, Maria
Avinash
This is not kulfi AT ALL! This is ice cream. Kulfi flavours come from the caramelised flavours of reducing milk in the pan. What you made is ice cream.
Maria Doss
Hi Avinash, We appreciate your feedback. Sometimes, it helps to have quick and easy recipes. Wishing you wonderful holidays:)
Karen Czarnowski
Can you please recommend a good source for saffron threads?
Maria Doss
Hi Karen, I usually buy them at Ethnic grocery stores (like Indian / Pakistani / Iranian/ ....). They are much cheaper and good quality as well. I also like this brand from Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Zaran-Saffron-Superior-Threads-Premium/dp/B079BQQVY7/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&keywords=saffron&qid=1610151950&sr=8-5 . Hope it helps:)
Karen
Thanks!
Radhika
This is a great recipe. Dad loves kulfi and he has tried and tested so many but this was by far the best and he agreed. Great texture and flavour. Went down a treat when mum and dad were visiting from Spain. Thank you Maria. I can't wait to try your recipes from the air fryer section.
Thank you x
Huma
Can I use 18% table cream and get the same result?
Maria Doss
Hi Huma, Using 18% cream, might not give the same creaminess as the usual heavy cream (which is 36%), but it will still be delicious, Maria
Ritu
Can I make this kulfi in paan flavor with paan leaves and gulkand?
Maria Doss
Hi Ritu, Why not? I haven't had any readers try a paan version, but I don't see a reason for it not working, Maria
Anne Daulby
Easy to do and the flavour is fantastic. My new go dessert.
Maria Doss
Sounds great hun, Maria
Maria Gassner
This was delicious!
Maria Doss
Glad you liked it hun, Maria
Simon
Is your 14 ounce can of Condensed milk Weight or Volume and what would the weight of .3 teaspoon of Saffron be?
Thank You
Simon Paul
Maria Doss
Hi Simon,
Here is the type I used (any similar cans will work just as well) - https://amzn.to/3JZn1Pf
Regarding the saffron used, it is just 1/2 teaspoon or use 3 to 4 pinches, depending on your preference. I'm sorry that it is not practically possible to weigh that small amount in home scales. Hope it helps - Maria
Sam
Never heard of Kulfi untill I bought aTom Ford fragrance called Noir Extreme, which referenses kulfi as a source of inspiration for the scent. So...
Made this for a dinner party last night. Super impressed. Extremely easy to make. (Albeit; grinding cardemom without a descent pestle is a bitch.) Came out looking exactly like the picture above, tasting like a scoop of heaven. I recon you could make a descent vanilla/chocolate/... icecream this way to.
Greetings from Belgium. Thanks for the inspiration and for broadening my horizons!
Maria Doss
Hi Sam, Glad to hear that you loved this kulfi recipe. Have a fabulous day- Maria