5 Light Dessert Ideas for a Peaceful Buddha Jayanti Feast

Buddha Jayanti, also known as Buddha Purnima, is a spiritually significant day that commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana of Siddhartha Gautama, or the Buddha. Observed with quiet reverence and simplicity, this sacred occasion is marked by meditation, prayer, and the offering of sattvic food that reflects inner purity and balance.

As families and communities come together to prepare meals that are in harmony with Buddhist principles of ahimsa (non-violence) and moderation, desserts, too, take on a subtler tone, being free from excess, yet full of meaning and taste. These light, wholesome desserts are not only easy to prepare but also align with the day’s contemplative and peaceful spirit. So here are five light desserts for Buddha Jayanti that are ideal for an understated feast.

Steamed Banana and Coconut Bites

These soft, naturally sweet steamed cakes are inspired by traditional South Indian unni appam and Burmese mont lone yay baw. Made with ripe bananas, jaggery, and coconut, they are gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and perfect for a sattvic observance. They are also light on the stomach and are filled with fiber and natural sweetness, feeling indulgent while remaining entirely guilt-free and healthy

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup grated jaggery
• 1/2 cup grated coconut
• 3/4 cup rice flour
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• Pinch of salt

Method:

1. In a bowl, mix the mashed bananas and jaggery until well combined.
2. Stir in the coconut, rice flour, cardamom, and salt to make a thick batter.
3. Spoon into greased idli moulds or small cups.
4. Steam for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
5. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Lotus Seed (Makhana) and Almond Kheer

Makhana, or fox nuts, are prized in Ayurvedic cooking for their cooling and nourishing properties. Combined with almond milk or regular milk, this delicate kheer is creamy yet light, making it an excellent choice for fasting or satvik days. Additionally, this kheer is light yet satisfying, offering a blend of healthy fats and slow-releasing carbohydrates to support fasting and prayer.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup makhana
• 2 cups almond or cow milk
• 2 tbsp chopped almonds
• 2 tbsp jaggery or raw sugar
• A pinch of cardamom

Method:

1. Lightly toast makhana in ghee or dry roast until crisp.
2. Coarsely crush half the quantity.
3. In a saucepan, heat milk and bring to a boil.
4. Add makhana and simmer until softened and the mixture slightly thickens.
5. Stir in jaggery, cardamom, and almonds.
6. Serve warm or chilled.

Fresh Fruit and Sabja Bowl

Sabja seeds (sweet basil seeds) are revered for their hydrating and cooling properties. When paired with seasonal fruits and tender coconut water or plant-based milk, they create a refreshing, raw dessert that’s naturally sattvic. This no-cook dessert is ideal for warm-weather celebrations and is gentle on the system after a day of spiritual discipline.

Ingredients:

• 2 tsp sabja seeds
• 1/2 cup chopped seasonal fruits (mango, papaya, banana, berries)
• 1/2 cup tender coconut water or almond milk
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
• Mint leaves for garnish

Method:

1. Soak the sabja seeds in water for 15 minutes until they swell.
2. In a bowl, layer the soaked seeds with chopped fruits.
3. Pour over the coconut water or milk.
4. Drizzle with honey if desired.
5. Chill before serving and garnish with mint.

Ragi and Date Ladoo

Ragi (finger millet) is rich in calcium and iron, making it a wonderful grain for wholesome sweets. These simple ladoos use dates as a sweetener, eliminating the need for sugar while enhancing taste and nutrition. Also, these ladoos are portable, energy-dense, and keep well, making them perfect for temple offerings or sharing after a prayer ceremony.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup ragi flour
• 1/2 cup chopped soft dates
• 2 tbsp grated coconut
• 2 tbsp ghee
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder

Method:

1. Roast ragi flour in ghee on low heat until aromatic.
2. Add dates and coconut.
3. Continue stirring until the mixture comes together.
4. Add cardamom and mix well.
5. Allow it to cool slightly and roll into small balls.
6. Store in an airtight container.

Rose and Saffron Phirni

Phirni is a rice-based pudding that’s lighter than traditional kheer and often served chilled. This version uses rose water and saffron to infuse a floral fragrance without overpowering sweetness. Light, creamy, and subtly floral, phirni is a beautiful finish to a peaceful, meditative meal.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup soaked and ground basmati rice
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp sugar or jaggery
• 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
• A few strands of saffron soaked in warm milk
• A few drops of rose water

Method:

1. In a saucepan, bring milk to a gentle boil.
2. Add the ground rice paste, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Cook on low heat until thickened.
4. Add saffron, cardamom, and sugar.
5. Remove from heat and stir in rose water.
6. Pour into small bowls and chill.