Holi Special: 5 Ways To Achieve Crispy Gujiyas

Holi is the perfect time to enjoy sweet treats, and nothing beats the golden, flaky delight of a gujiya. While store-bought versions are often crisp and perfect, making gujiyas at home can sometimes result in a slightly soft or chewy shell. But with a few simple tricks, you can make your gujiyas as crunchy as a professional halwai’s! Here are five quick ways to ensure your gujiyas are delightfully crisp every time.

1. Use Sooji or Rice Flour

While all-purpose flour (maida) forms the base of most gujiya dough, adding a small amount of sooji (semolina) or rice flour can make a big difference. Sooji lends a delicate, grainy crunch, while rice flour creates a lighter, crispier shell. A good ratio is three parts all-purpose flour to one part sooji or rice flour for the perfect texture.

2. Use the Right Amount of Ghee

Ghee is essential for a crisp gujiya shell. The key is the right proportion: about two tablespoons of ghee per cup of flour. Rub the ghee into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Too much ghee can make the gujiyas crumbly, while too little can result in a tough shell.

3. Roll to the Right Thickness

The thickness of the dough affects crispiness. Aim for a 2–3 mm thickness to get a shell that’s crunchy yet strong enough to hold the filling. Avoid over-rolling, which can make the gujiya chewy instead of crisp.

4. Double Fry for Extra Crunch

For a halwai-style crunch, try the double-fry method. Fry gujiyas on low heat until lightly golden, remove and rest for 5–10 minutes, then fry again on medium heat until deep golden brown. This removes moisture and ensures maximum crispiness.

5. Maintain the Right Oil Temperature

Frying temperature is crucial. Start on low heat and gradually increase to medium. High heat can brown the outside too quickly, leaving the inside undercooked. Slow frying ensures even cooking and prevents oil absorption, keeping the gujiyas perfectly crunchy.

With these simple adjustments, your homemade gujiyas will rival any sweet shop version. From flour selection to frying technique, every step contributes to a crisp, festive delight that will wow your family and guests this Holi.