Bournville Kesari Phirni Recipe: A Luxurious Dessert To Celebrate Hanuman Jayanti

Hanuman Jayanti on 12th April 2025 is the birth day of Lord Hanuman, known for his strength, devotion and selflessness. This day is very special in Hinduism, devotees wake up early to visit temples, recite Sundara Kand, offer flowers, sweets and sindoor to Hanuman idols. Many observe a whole day fast and break it with sattvik food and prasad. It is believed that offering kesar (saffron) in sweets on this day pleases Lord Hanuman as saffron symbolizes purity and devotion.

Among the many festive treats Kesari Phirni is a favorite, known for its rich and aromatic flavors and lovely texture. But this year why not add a modern twist? Bournville Kesari Phirni combines the deep intense flavors of Bournville dark chocolate with the royal essence of saffron to create a dessert that is traditional and indulgent. The bittersweet chocolate enhances the classic phirni making it a nice addition to your festive menu.

Here Is How To Make Bournville Kesari Phirni

Prasad holds a sacred place in any pooja, it represents the love and devotion of people for god. Making it differently or adding a modern twist to it makes it more special as a prasad. Here is how to make Bournville Kesari Phirni

Ingredients

• 1 liter full cream milk
• ¼ cup basmati rice (soaked & ground)
• ½ cup sugar (adjust as per taste)
• 50 grams Bournville dark chocolate (grated or melted)
• 10-12 saffron strands (kesar soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk)
• ½ tsp cardamom powder
• 2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios)
• ½ tsp rose water (optional)
• Silver varq (for garnish) optional

Method

1. Rinse and soak ¼ cup basmati rice for 30 minutes. Drain and grind it into a coarse paste using a little water. Keep aside.
2. In a big pan, heat 1 liter full cream milk on medium flame. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and bring it to a boil.
3. Add the ground rice paste to the boiling milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Simmer on low flame for 10-12 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and the mixture thickens.
5. Mix in ½ cup sugar, soaked saffron milk and ½ tsp cardamom powder. Stir well. Cook for 5 minutes until the sugar is dissolved and the flavors blend.
6. Lower the flame and add grated/melted Bournville dark chocolate. Stir until the chocolate is melted and mixed well.
7. Switch off the flame and let it cool a bit. Add ½ tsp rose water for a nice aroma.
8. Pour into earthen bowls and refrigerate for 2-3 hours. Top with chopped nuts and silver varq and serve it cold for the best flavor.

Traditional Ways to Serve Bournville Kesari Phirni as Prasad for Hanuman Jayanti

Phirni, a slow-cooked rice pudding, has long been a part of temple prasad offerings, representing prosperity and gratitude. Infused with Bournville dark chocolate and saffron, this Kesari Phirni adds a unique touch to tradition. Here’s how you can serve it in 8 traditional ways while keeping its spiritual significance intact.

Earthen Kulhads for Divine Connection

Serving phirni in clay kulhads (earthen pots) is an age-old tradition that enhances its taste and keeps it naturally cool. The kulhad absorbs excess moisture, allowing the phirni to thicken beautifully. For Hanuman Jayanti, serving Bournville Kesari Phirni in kulhads represents purity and simplicity, much like Lord Hanuman’s devotion.

Silver Bowls as a Royal Offering

Silver has deep spiritual significance in Indian rituals. It is believed to attract positive energy and enhance the sanctity of food. Serving the Bournville Kesari Phirni in small silver bowls makes the offering even more special. Top it with chopped almonds, pistachios, and a few strands of saffron to highlight its festive richness.

Banana Leaves for an Authentic Touch

Offering prasad on banana leaves is a time-honored practice in temples and homes. The leaves lend a subtle, earthy aroma to the phirni, enhancing its divine appeal. For Hanuman Jayanti, place small servings of Kesari Phirni on washed banana leaves and garnish with a sprinkle of edible rose petals.

Brass Urli for a Temple-Style Presentation

A brass urli (wide-mouthed vessel) is often used in temples for preparing and distributing prasad. Serving Bournville Kesari Phirni in a urli, placed at the center of the puja area, gives it a sacred feel. Devotees can take small portions in cups or leaves, just like traditional temple prasad.

Tulsi Leaf Garnish for a Sacred Offering

Tulsi (holy basil) is considered an auspicious herb in Hindu rituals. Adding a fresh tulsi leaf on top of the Kesari Phirni before offering it to Lord Hanuman elevates its spiritual significance. Tulsi is known to purify food, making it a fitting addition to a sacred offering prepared with rich chocolate and fragrant saffron.