If you’re looking for an Indian dessert that’s high on energy and low on effort, then meet black sesame ladoos. Made from sesame and powdered jaggery, these sweet, round balls are satiating. And, with a slight twist, you can present them as a fun treat. Borrown from the Western cake pop design and use lollipop sticks to prop these balls and serve.
In a heavy-bottomed pan, dry-roast the black sesame seeds over medium heat for 3–5 minutes. Continuously stir till the seeds start to pop and look plump. They will also release a nutty, fragrant aroma.
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Step 2: Add the desiccated coconut (optional)
Once the seeds are well toasted, turn off the heat. Only then add the dessicated coconut, as it will roast from the residual pan heat. Gently stir for a minute before transferring the mixture to a plate. Let it cool. Don’t leave it on the pan, or it may burn from the pan's heat.
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Step 3: Grind the ingredients
Once the mixture cools down completely, transfer it to a blender along with powdered jaggery and cardamom powder (if using). Pulse grind the mix a few times until it turns into a coarse powder. Important: Only pulse grind. Do not grind continuously, or the mixture will become a paste.
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Step 4: Form the laddoos
Transfer the coarse mixture onto a plate. Now, lightly grease your palms with ghee or oil and shape the mixture into small balls. Remember, since these are pops, the balls should be bite-sized. Roll them tightly between your palms to form small, smooth, round balls.
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Step 5: Turn the Laddoos into pops
Once your Laddoos are ready, gently insert lollipop sticks for a "pop" effect. Don’t press the stick too hard or insert it too deeply, or the Laddoo might break. Serve immediately.