Buddha Jayanti, or Buddha Purnima, is an auspicious occasion that commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and nirvana of Lord Buddha. This sacred day is celebrated with spiritual observances, meditative practices, and offerings of pure, sattvic food. While traditional Indian sweets such as kheer, laddoos, and halwas are prepared in homes and temples alike, there is a growing appreciation for innovative recipes that align with both spiritual values and modern tastes.
The Oreo dry fruit ladoo recipe is one such fusion sweet that combines the richness of dry fruits with the universally loved flavor of Oreos. These no-bake, easy-to-make treats are ideal for festive offerings, combining purity with a contemporary flavor. This is also a very healthy dish. The dates provide fibre, iron, and natural sweetness. Nuts add healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. The coconut contributes antioxidants and offers a healthy and refreshing flavor with each bite. And the Oreo cookies, while not traditional, in moderation, offer a chocolatey contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering the core ingredients.
The recipe is simple, requiring no cooking, and can be made in advance for festive gatherings or temple offerings. By combining the wisdom of sattvic ingredients with the universal charm of chocolate, these ladoos offer both reverence and indulgence in every bite. So here is a detailed guide for preparing these ladoos that are wholesome, indulgent, and worthy of the occasion.
Ingredients:
For the base:
- 15 Oreo cookies (with cream)
- 1/4 cup roasted almonds
- 1/4 cup roasted cashews
- 1/4 cup seedless dates (soft, preferably Medjool)
- 2 tbsp desiccated coconut
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder (optional, for a richer chocolate flavour)
- 2 tbsp milk or almond milk (as needed)
For garnish and coating:
- Crushed pistachios
- Desiccated coconut
- Edible rose petals (optional)
- Silver vark (optional, for presentation)
Method:
- Begin by lightly toasting the almonds and cashews in a dry pan over medium heat. Roast until they are golden and aromatic, which enhances their flavor and makes them easier to grind. Set aside to cool.
- Once cooled, transfer the dry fruits to a food processor or high-speed blender. Pulse until they are broken down into coarse crumbs. Be careful not to over-blend, as the nuts may release oil and become pasty. You want a sandy texture with small bits for a satisfying crunch.
- Next, add the pitted dates to the same blender. Blend until the dates form a sticky paste. Dates act as a natural sweetener and binder, eliminating the need for refined sugar or artificial additives. If your dates are a bit dry, you can soak them in warm water for 15 minutes before blending.
- Break the Oreo cookies into halves and add them to the blender. You can include the cream filling if you like, as it provides the signature Oreo flavor and helps in binding the mixture. Blend until the mixture comes together as a soft, pliable dough.
- At this point, incorporate the cocoa powder (if using) and desiccated coconut. Give the mixture a few more pulses to ensure uniform distribution.
- If the mixture is too dry to form into balls, add 2 tablespoons of milk or almond milk gradually. Blend and check the texture -- it should be moist enough to hold its shape when rolled, but not too wet.
- Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms to form smooth, bite-sized balls. If you’re preparing these for an offering, aim for uniformity and neatness in size and shape.
- Set the formed ladoos on a tray lined with parchment paper. The dough should yield approximately 12 medium-sized ladoos.
- Once all the ladoos are shaped, roll them gently in crushed pistachios or desiccated coconut for a festive coating. For an elegant touch, sprinkle with edible rose petals or apply a thin sheet of silver vark.
- If refrigerating, allow them to rest uncovered for 30 minutes in the fridge before transferring to an airtight container. These ladoos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- As Buddha Jayanti is a spiritually significant festival, the intention with which the food is offered matters deeply. Place the ladoos in a clean, preferably silver or brass plate for the offering. Decorate the plate with flowers or leaves, and accompany the sweets with a diya (oil lamp), incense, and prayers.