Parsi Mawa Cake Recipe (Tea Time Cake Flavored with Cardamom & Pistachios)
A traditional Parsi dessert, the Mawa Cake, is a delightful tea-time treat infused with the rich flavor of cardamom and topped with a garnish of pistachios and almonds. This cake is moist, flavorful, and beautifully spiced, making it the perfect companion to a hot cup of Masala Chai. The addition of khoya (mawa) gives it a dense, yet soft texture, while the nuts add a satisfying crunch. It’s a comforting, classic treat loved by many, and it’s sure to be a hit at your next tea party or gathering.
Ingredients for Parsi Mawa Cake
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1-1/4 cups |
| Baking Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cardamom Powder (Elaichi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 pinch |
| Khoya (Mawa) | 100 grams |
| Butter (unsalted) – at room temperature | 6 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Whole Eggs – at room temperature | 2 |
| Milk | 6 tablespoons |
| Slivered Almonds (Badam) | To taste |
| Pistachios (chopped) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~280 kcal |
| Protein | ~4 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~34 g |
| Fat | ~15 g |
| Fiber | ~2 g |
| Sugar | ~20 g |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on exact portion sizes and ingredient brands.)
Instructions for Making Parsi Mawa Cake
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 7-inch cake pan and set it aside for later use. |
| 2 | In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cardamom powder. Set aside. |
| 3 | In another mixing bowl, use an electric hand blender to cream together the crumbled khoya (mawa), unsalted butter, and sugar for about 4-5 minutes, until the mixture becomes light, pale, and fluffy. |
| 4 | Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth and fully combined. |
| 5 | Gradually add 1/3 of the sifted flour mixture, followed by 1/3 of the milk, alternating between the two. Mix well after each addition. Repeat with the remaining flour and milk, stirring until the batter is smooth and pourable. |
| 6 | Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. |
| 7 | Sprinkle slivered almonds and chopped pistachios evenly on top of the batter. Optionally, you can also sprinkle a bit more cardamom powder for enhanced flavor. |
| 8 | Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60-75 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. |
| 9 | Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. |
| 10 | Slice the cooled cake and serve with a hot cup of Masala Chai, alongside crispy Pan Fried Onion Pakoras or Non-Fried Corn & Cheese Bites for a delightful tea-time experience. |
Tips for Perfecting Your Parsi Mawa Cake
- Mawa (Khoya): Mawa is an essential ingredient for this cake and adds to its rich texture. You can find mawa at Indian grocery stores, or make your own at home by reducing full-fat milk until it thickens.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before beginning, as this helps create a smooth batter.
- Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so check the cake after 60 minutes. If the skewer comes out with batter, continue baking and check every 10 minutes.
- Storage: This cake stays moist for several days when stored in an airtight container. It can also be refrigerated for up to a week.
Perfect Pairings for Parsi Mawa Cake
The Parsi Mawa Cake pairs perfectly with a steaming cup of Masala Chai, a spicy, aromatic tea often enjoyed by Parsi families during their tea time. You can also serve it alongside savory bites like Pan Fried Onion Pakoras or Corn & Cheese Bites to balance the sweetness of the cake.
Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, this Parsi Mawa Cake will transport you to a place of comfort and warmth. The delicate cardamom and rich mawa combine to create an unforgettable flavor, while the crunchy pistachios and almonds provide a perfect textural contrast. It’s a must-try recipe for anyone who loves traditional Parsi treats.
