Punjabi Pinni With A Chocolate Twist: A Sweet Treat For Baisakhi Celebrations

Baisakhi, celebrated on April 13, 2025, is more than just a harvest festival—it marks a time of joy, gratitude, and togetherness. In Punjab, this day holds deep significance as it commemorates the formation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699. Farmers across North India rejoice in the success of theizr Rabi crop, offering prayers at gurudwaras and taking part in vibrant processions.

No Indian festival is complete without sweets, and Pinni holds a special place in Punjabi households. Traditionally made with wheat flour, ghee, jaggery, and nuts, Pinni is an energy-packed treat that has been enjoyed for generations. But this Baisakhi, why not give it a twist? Punjabi Pinni with Chocolate brings the best of both worlds - the rich, nutty flavors of classic Pinni infused with the indulgence of chocolate.

Recipe make the classic Punjabi Pinni with a twist of Chocolate

Baisakhi is more than just a festival - it’s a time to celebrate new beginnings, good harvests, and traditions that have been passed down for generations. Among the many festive sweets, Punjabi Pinni holds a special place in every household, so here is a recipe to make these delicious pinnies:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour (gehu ka atta)
• 1 cup jaggery (gud), grated
• ½ cup ghee
• ½ cup almonds (badam), finely chopped
• ¼ cup cashews (kaju), chopped
• ¼ cup walnuts (akhrot), chopped
• ¼ cup raisins (kishmish)
• ½ cup grated dark chocolate (preferably Bournville or any good quality dark chocolate)
• ½ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon cardamom powder (elaichi powder)
• 2 tablespoons desiccated coconut (nariyal boora) (optional)

Method:

1. Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan on low heat. Add whole wheat flour and roast it, stirring continuously, until it turns golden brown and gives a rich aroma. This may take around 15-20 minutes.
2. Mix in the chopped almonds, cashews, and walnuts, and roast for another 3-4 minutes. The nuts will enhance the richness of the pinni.
3. In a separate pan, heat milk and add the grated jaggery. Stir on low flame until the jaggery completely melts. Turn off the flame and let it cool slightly.
4. Pour the jaggery syrup into the roasted flour mixture and mix well. Add cardamom powder and raisins. Stir until everything blends.
5. While the mixture is still warm, fold in the grated chocolate. The heat will melt the chocolate, creating a rich and indulgent twist.
6. Once the mixture is slightly cool but still warm, take small portions and shape them into round laddoo-like balls using your hands.
7. Roll the pinnis in desiccated coconut for extra flavor or leave them in it and let them cool before you serve.

Traditional Ways to Serve Punjabi Pinni with a Chocolate Twist for Baisakhi Celebrations

Made with a chocolate twist, they bring a unique fusion of flavors while still holding onto their rich legacy. Here’s how you can serve them in 8 different ways to add a festive charm to your Baisakhi celebrations.

As a Traditional Prasad Offering

Baisakhi holds immense religious significance, and no festival is complete without offering prasad. Serve warm Punjabi Pinni with a Chocolate Twist in small earthen bowls (mitti ke katoras) after Ardas at the Gurudwara or at home during prayers. The mix of traditional and modern flavors makes it a special offering that bridges the past and present.

With a Glass of Warm Milk

There’s nothing more comforting than a Pinni dunked in warm milk—a classic Punjabi way of enjoying this nutritious sweet. The chocolatey goodness melts slightly in the milk, creating a delicious mix of flavors. Serve it in a steel or brass tumbler for an authentic touch, just like how it was enjoyed in Punjabi homes for generations.

Packed as Festive Gifts

Baisakhi is a time of togetherness, and what better way to spread joy than by gifting homemade Chocolate Pinni? Pack them in traditional potlis or decorative boxes lined with parchment paper. You can also add a small handwritten note sharing the significance of Pinni in Punjabi culture, making it a heartfelt and personal gift.

Served on a Thaali with Dry Fruits

In traditional Punjabi households, Pinni is often served alongside dry fruits like almonds, cashews, and pistachios. Arrange the Chocolate Pinnis on a festive brass thaali, garnished with chopped nuts and dried rose petals, making it an eye-catching centerpiece at any Baisakhi gathering.

Crumbled Over Gur Ki Roti

A lesser-known but authentic way to enjoy Pinni is by crumbling it over warm Gur Ki Roti (jaggery flatbread). The heat from the roti softens the Pinni, and the melted chocolate gives it a rich, indulgent feel. Serve it with a drizzle of ghee for an old-school Punjabi-style treat that feels both nostalgic and innovative.