Trinidad Milk Barfi Recipe

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If you’ve ever tried Trinidad milk barfi, you know it’s a treat. It is rich, sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth good.

This dessert is a staple at celebrations like Divali, Eid, and weddings, but it’s so tasty you’ll want to enjoy it anytime.

What Is Trini Barfi?

Trinidad milk barfi is a type of fudge made with milk powder, condensed milk, and warming spices like cardamom and nutmeg.

It has a creamy, slightly crumbly texture that melts in your mouth. The sweetness is balanced with a hint of spice, and it’s often topped with colorful sprinkles or chopped nuts for an extra pop of flavor and texture.

While barfi originated in India, Trinidad’s version has its Caribbean twist. It’s richer, creamier, and often has a more pronounced spice blend.

Trinidad Milk Barfi Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups full-cream milk powder
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp butter or ghee
• Sprinkles or chopped nuts for garnish

Instructions

In a bowl, combine milk powder and heavy cream. Mix until it forms a dough-like consistency. Set aside.

In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the syrup thickens slightly — you’re aiming for a sticky, one-thread consistency.

Reduce heat to low. Add the milk mixture to the syrup, stirring constantly. Add the condensed milk, cardamom, nutmeg, vanilla, and butter.

Stir until everything combines into a thick, smooth mixture that pulls away from the sides of the pan.

Pour the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined baking dish. Flatten evenly and sprinkle with your toppings. Let it cool completely, then cut into squares.

Creative Variations of Trinidad Barfi

1. Chocolate Barfi

If you’re a chocolate lover, this one’s for you.

• Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the milk powder mixture.
• For extra richness, mix in a handful of chocolate chips at the end before setting.
• Top with chocolate shavings or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

✅ Tip: A dash of cinnamon pairs beautifully with chocolate barfi.

2. Coconut Barfi

Bring a tropical twist to your dessert.

• Swap half the milk powder for desiccated coconut.
• Add a teaspoon of coconut essence for a more intense flavor.
• Toasted coconut flakes make a perfect garnish.

✅ Tip: For a creamier texture, replace heavy cream with coconut cream.

3. Pistachio or Almond Barfi

Nutty, fragrant, and absolutely delicious.

• Stir in 1/2 cup of ground pistachios or almonds with the milk powder.
• A drop of almond or rose extract enhances the flavor.
• Top with slivered nuts or edible silver for an elegant touch.

✅ Tip: Lightly toast the nuts beforehand for a deeper, richer flavor.

4. Cheesecake Barfi

For something truly unique, combine two desserts into one.

• Mix 1/2 cup softened cream cheese into the milk mixture.
• Add lemon zest and a splash of vanilla extract for a tangy, cheesecake-like flavor.
• Crushed graham crackers or a cookie crumb base make this even more fun.

✅ Tip: Chill this version longer to ensure it holds its shape.

Trinidad milk barfi is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dessert. No matter if you stick with the traditional recipe or experiment with creative flavors like chocolate, coconut, pistachio, or even cheesecake, you’re guaranteed a sweet, satisfying treat.

More Divali Recipes

• Caribbean Mother In Law Recipe
• Trinidad Pumpkin Choka/ Pumpkin Talkari
• Trinidad Saheena Recipe
• Trini Easy Pholourie Recipe
• Trini Curry Channa & Aloo (Patato)