As winter slowly reaches its peak and the Sun begins its northward journey, Indian homes fill with joy, laughter, and the comforting aroma of sesame seeds roasting in ghee. This is the time of Makar Sankranti, a festival that celebrates positivity, new beginnings, and togetherness. And at the heart of this celebration lies one simple yet meaningful sweet — Til Gud Ladoo.

Til Gud Ladoo is not just a recipe; it is an emotion passed down through generations. Every ladoo carries the warmth of sesame seeds, the natural sweetness of jaggery, and the beautiful message of harmony — “Til gud ghya, god god bola”, meaning eat sesame and jaggery and speak sweet words. Sharing these laddoos with friends, family, and neighbors strengthens bonds and spreads happiness.

Let’s walk through this traditional recipe slowly, the way it is prepared in Indian kitchens — with patience, love, and festive spirit.

Why Til Gud Ladoo Is Made During Makar Sankranti

Makar Sankranti marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. According to Ayurveda, this season demands foods that keep the body warm and provide energy.

Sesame seeds and jaggery are perfect winter ingredients:

  • Sesame seeds (til) are rich in healthy fats, calcium, and iron. They help generate warmth in the body.
  • Jaggery (gud) is a natural sweetener packed with minerals and helps boost digestion and immunity.
  • Together, they balance the cold and dryness of winter.

That’s why Til Gud Ladoo becomes a must-have sweet during Sankranti.

Ingredients Required for Til Gud Ladoo

This recipe yields approximately 12–15 medium-sized laddoos.

Main Ingredients:

  • White sesame seeds (til) – 1 cup
  • Jaggery (gud), grated or crushed – ¾ cup
  • Ghee – 2 tablespoons

Optional Ingredients (For Extra Taste & Texture):

  • Roasted peanuts, coarsely crushed – ¼ cup
  • Dry coconut (khopra), grated – 2 tablespoons
  • Cardamom powder – ½ teaspoon

These additions are commonly used in many households but the basic til-gud combination alone is equally delicious.

Step-by-Step Til Gud Ladoo Recipe

Step 1: Cleaning and Drying the Sesame Seeds

Before cooking, always check the sesame seeds for any stones or impurities. Rinse them quickly under running water and spread them on a clean cloth or plate. Allow them to dry completely.

This step may seem small, but removing moisture ensures the sesame seeds roast evenly and stay fresh longer.

Step 2: Roasting the Sesame Seeds

Heat a heavy-bottomed pan on low flame. Add the dried sesame seeds and roast them slowly.

  • Stir continuously to prevent burning
  • The seeds will start popping lightly
  • They will change color slightly and release a nutty aroma

Once they turn light golden and aromatic, switch off the flame. Transfer them to a plate and allow them to cool completely.

Proper roasting brings out the true flavor of til and gives laddoos their signature taste.

Step 3: Grinding the Sesame Seeds

Once cooled, grind the roasted sesame seeds using a mixer grinder.

  • Grind them coarsely, not into a fine powder
  • The texture should be slightly grainy

Over-grinding can release oil and make the mixture greasy, so pulse carefully.

Step 4: Preparing the Jaggery

Heat a pan on low flame and add grated jaggery along with 1 tablespoon of ghee.

  • Let the jaggery melt slowly
  • Stir continuously to avoid burning
  • Do not cook it for too long

The jaggery should melt completely and become slightly thick, but not stringy. Overcooking can make the laddoos hard once cooled.

Switch off the flame at the right moment — when jaggery is smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Mixing Everything Together

Now add the ground sesame seeds to the melted jaggery while it is still warm.

If using optional ingredients, add:

  • Crushed roasted peanuts
  • Grated dry coconut
  • Cardamom powder

Mix everything thoroughly so that the jaggery coats the sesame seeds evenly. The mixture should be warm and sticky — perfect for shaping laddoos.

Step 6: Shaping the Laddoos

Grease your palms lightly with ghee. Take a small portion of the mixture and gently press it between your palms to form round laddoos.

  • Shape them while the mixture is warm
  • Press gently but firmly
  • Work quickly before the mixture cools

Place the prepared laddoos on a plate. Let them cool completely at room temperature.

Once cooled, they will firm up and hold their shape beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Til Gud Ladoo

  • Always roast sesame seeds on low flame
  • Do not overcook jaggery — this is the most important step
  • Shape laddoos while the mixture is warm
  • Grease your hands lightly to avoid sticking
  • Use fresh jaggery for best taste and texture