Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6
Indulge in the rich, caramelized flavors of Chhena Poda, a traditional cheesecake from Odisha, India. Made with fresh chhena (cottage cheese), sugar, and cardamom, this rustic dessert is slow-baked in sal leaves for a deep, smoky aroma and a beautifully caramelized crust.
The History & Cultural Significance of Chhena Poda
“A dessert born by accident, now an iconic treat of Odisha!”
Chhena Poda, meaning “burnt cheese” in Odia, is often considered India’s only baked dessert. Legend has it that this delicacy was discovered by accident, when a local sweet-maker left sweetened chhena in a warm oven overnight. The result? A golden, melt-in-your-mouth delight that became an Odisha culinary treasure.
With our Chhena Poda Kit, you can recreate this centuries-old dessert in your own kitchen—no traditional clay oven required!
Chhena Poda has been a staple in Odisha’s temple cuisine for centuries, often prepared as an offering at Lord Jagannath’s temple in Puri. Unlike other Indian sweets, this cheesecake-like delight is baked, giving it a distinct texture and deep caramelized notes.
🔹 What Makes Chhena Poda Special?
- Unique Baking Process – Traditionally baked in clay ovens or over wood fires.
- Deep Caramelization – Slow baking gives it a rich, golden crust.
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – Only chhena, sugar, semolina, and cardamom are needed!
- A Temple Offering Turned National Favorite – Found in festivals, sweet shops, and homes across Odisha.
Now, with our Chhena Poda Kit, you can enjoy this heritage dessert without the need for clay ovens or rare ingredients!
☑️ Premium Chhena Mix – Made from high-quality dairy for the perfect texture
☑️ Authentic Cardamom & Jaggery Blend – For a rich, traditional flavor
☑️ Organic Semolina (Suji) – Helps bind and enhance the texture
☑️ Step-by-Step Baking Instructions – No experience needed!
Ingredients�
For Classic Chhena Poda:
☑️ 1 tablespoon🥄 ghee 🧈
☑️ ¼ teaspoon🥄 salt
☑️ ½ cup sugar or jaggery 🍯
☑️ 1 teaspoon🥄 baking powder
☑️ 1 teaspoon🥄 crushed cardamom pods
For Extra Flavor:
☑️ 2 tablespoons🥄 chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, or pistachios)
☑️ ½ teaspoon🥄 saffron strands
☑️ 1 tablespoon🥄 rose water
👩🍳 How to Make Chhena Poda with the Kit
🔥 Step 1: Prepare the Chhena Mixture
1️⃣ In a bowl, mash the chhena until smooth.
2️⃣ Add sugar (or jaggery), semolina, salt, baking powder, and cardamom. Mix well.
3️⃣ Stir in ghee and chopped nuts for extra richness.
🔥 Step 2: Caramelize the Base
1️⃣ Grease a baking pan with ghee.
2️⃣ Sprinkle sugar at the bottom and heat gently until caramelized.
🔥 Step 3: Bake to Perfection
1️⃣ Pour the chhena mixture into the pan.
2️⃣ Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is deep golden brown.
3️⃣ Let it cool before unmolding.
🔥 Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
1️⃣ Slice into thick wedges and enjoy with chai or warm milk.
2️⃣ Garnish with saffron strands or rose petals for a festive touch.
🔥 Why You’ll Love This Chhena Poda Kit
A dessert born by accident, now an iconic treat of Odisha!
🍮 Authentic Taste of Odisha – A beloved dessert with deep cultural roots
🌿 Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – Simple yet delicious
🔥 Caramelized & Smoky – Unique texture unlike any other Indian sweet
🎉 Perfect for Festivals & Special Occasions – A treat enjoyed during Rath Yatra & Diwali
“Chhena Poda isn’t just a dessert—it’s a story of tradition, innovation, and timeless flavors.”
🌍 Craving More Extreme Culinary Adventures? If you’re fascinated by rare and ancient food traditions, explore our guide to Pan de Muerto con Xoconostle You Need to Try! with Indigenous Roots for the Adventurous Food Lover.
Discover rare culinary experiences at Good Food and More—where every recipe is a journey through heritage, craftsmanship, and unforgettable flavors.
