- August 26, 2025
Rose Thandai Recipe – A Refreshing Summer & Holi Special Drink
Indian festivals are incomplete without drinks that are rich in flavor, tradition, and cooling properties. One such festive delight is the Rose Thandai Recipe. This unique blend combines the goodness of traditional thandai with rose syrup, making it not just delicious but also refreshing during the summer months. Whether you are celebrating Holi, looking for a cooling rose thandai drink, or want a healthy rose thandai option for family gatherings, this recipe is perfect.
you’ll learn how to make rose thandai at home with simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, health benefits, and serving tips.
What is Rose Thandai?
Thandai is a traditional Indian drink made with milk, nuts, and spices, often prepared during Holi and Maha Shivratri. When blended with rose syrup or dried rose petals, it becomes Rose Thandai, a more fragrant and cooling version.
Rose thandai milk is popular during summer because it keeps the body hydrated and refreshed.
Homemade rose thandai can be customized as per your taste – creamy, nutty, or light.
It is also considered a healthy rose thandai when prepared without refined sugar and loaded with nuts.

To make this easy rose thandai recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
1 liter full cream milk (chilled, boiled earlier)
3 tbsp rose syrup or 2 tbsp dried rose petals (edible grade)
½ cup almonds
¼ cup cashews
¼ cup pistachios
2 tbsp poppy seeds (soaked overnight)
2 tbsp fennel seeds
2 tbsp watermelon seeds
10–12 black peppercorns
5–6 green cardamoms
1 tbsp saffron strands (optional)
3 tbsp sugar / honey (or make rose thandai without sugar for a healthier version)
1 tbsp rose thandai powder (if using readymade mix)
How to Make Rose Thandai – Step by Step
Follow this rose thandai step by step guide to prepare a perfect festive drink:
Step 1 – Soak the Nuts & Seeds
Soak almonds, cashews, pistachios, watermelon seeds, fennel seeds, and poppy seeds in water for 6–8 hours (or overnight).
This makes them soft and easy to grind.
Step 2 – Prepare the Thandai Masala Paste
Drain the soaked nuts and seeds.
Add them to a blender along with cardamoms, black peppercorns, and saffron.
Grind into a smooth paste using a little milk.
This forms the base of your rose thandai masala.
Step 3 – Blend with Milk
In a large mixing bowl, add chilled milk.
Stir in the nut paste, sugar or honey, and rose syrup.
Whisk well until smooth.
Step 4 – Chill & Strain
Strain the mixture using a muslin cloth or fine strainer for a smooth, silky texture.
Refrigerate for 2–3 hours to let the flavors blend.

Step 5 – Serve Refreshing Rose Thandai
Pour into tall glasses.
Garnish with crushed pistachios, rose petals, or saffron strands.
Serve cold as a rose thandai drink for Holi or a cooling summer beverage.

Variations of Rose Thandai
Rose Thandai with Dry Fruits – Add more almonds, figs, and raisins for a royal drink.
Instant Rose Thandai Recipe – Use readymade rose thandai powder with chilled milk and rose syrup.
Vegan Rose Thandai – Replace milk with almond or oat milk.
Rose Thandai without Sugar – Use honey, stevia, or jaggery for a healthier version.
Traditional Rose Thandai – Use dried rose petals instead of syrup for authentic flavor.
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Benefits of Drinking Rose Thandai
Apart from being delicious, rose thandai benefits include:
Cooling for body & mind – perfect for hot summers.
Rich in protein & calcium from milk and nuts.
Aids digestion with fennel, cardamom, and black pepper.
Boosts immunity & energy during festive celebrations.
Stress reliever thanks to rose petals’ calming effect.
No wonder rose thandai for summer is considered one of the best natural coolers!
Serving Ideas for Rose Thandai
Serve as a Holi special rose thandai along with snacks like gujiya, pakoras, or mathri.
Offer as a festive drink during Navratri or Diwali gatherings.
Make a big batch for parties as a non-alcoholic welcome drink.
Serve chilled in earthen kulhads for a traditional touch.
FAQs About Rose Thandai Recipe
Q1: Can I make rose thandai without sugar?
Yes, you can prepare rose thandai without sugar by using honey, jaggery, or stevia.
Q2: Is rose thandai good for health?
Yes, healthy rose thandai is packed with nuts, seeds, and milk, making it high in protein, vitamins, and cooling agents.
Q3: How to make instant rose thandai?
Use rose thandai powder and mix it with cold milk and rose syrup – your drink is ready in 5 minutes.
Q4: Can I prepare rose thandai in advance?
Yes, you can make homemade rose thandai a day before and keep it refrigerated. Just stir before serving.
Q5: Is rose thandai suitable for fasting?
Yes, you can prepare a rose thandai for vrat by skipping poppy seeds and adjusting ingredients as per fasting rules.
Expert Tips for Best Rose Thandai
Always soak nuts and seeds overnight for a creamy paste.
Use full cream milk for a rich texture.
Strain the drink for a smooth, velvety finish.
Use edible dried rose petals for authentic flavor instead of artificial essence.
Chill for at least 2–3 hours before serving for maximum refreshment.
Interesting Facts
The Rose Thandai Recipe is not just a drink; it’s a festive tradition infused with cooling properties and delightful flavors. Whether you prepare it as an easy rose thandai recipe for summer or as a traditional rose thandai for Holi, it is guaranteed to win hearts.
From rose thandai with dry fruits to rose thandai without sugar, there are endless variations to enjoy this royal Indian beverage. Next time you want something refreshing, nutritious, and festive, prepare this homemade rose thandai and serve with love.
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