Wedding mithai is sweet, creamy, and overwhelmingly delicious – but it’s not for everyone. Whether you are a vegan, dairy-free, or just want to avoid those extra sugary calories, there is hope yet! Indian sweets aren’t ALL ghee and jaggery galore – there are alternatives for you or your wedding guests to enjoy that won’t send anyone into a sugar coma or the dentist’s office.
Kulfi or Ice Cream
Kulfi is technically considered a “mithai,” but the concept of serving ice cream at your wedding isn’t a bad one! You can choose dairy-free sorbets or even order low-fat ice cream and kulfi.
Plus, even a simple, no-sugar, no-cream dessert can be glamorized with fresh fruit and nut toppings!
Kulfi can be made quite easily – check out our recipe!
Cookies and Baked Goods
While cookies can be loaded with butter and sugar, you can be careful enough to make or order a batch that avoids dairy or cuts down on the sugar. Cookies can be custom-made – so go crazy with the flavors and decorations that you like!
Cardamom cookies are a great option to keep things Eastern while still enjoying the sugary goodness that comes with Indian mithai.
Similarly, baked goods run a huge risk of being unhealthy or having lots of dairy products – but there are ways to avoid these issues! Eggless cakes are a great idea for vegans or Jains, as are gluten-free options.
Some beautiful henna-inspired cookies by Henna Lounge.
Lassi and Drinks
Mango or sweet or salty – lassi is an effortlessly customizable and tasty drink that everyone can enjoy! You can even substitute soy milk for dairy-free alternatives or fat-free yogurt for healthier options. Instead of going crazy with ladoos, why not satisfy that sweet tooth with some yummy lassi?
Or what about falooda? A classic dessert favorite, falooda can be customized with any ice cream (or frozen yogurt!), syrup, or toppings of your choice!
Candy Bars
Sure, candy bars can be full of sugar – but they’re also delicious ways to avoid the heavy cream associated with many Indian mithais! On a health note, candy bars filled with nuts tend to be better on the waistline – since they fill you up quickly and have plenty of protein.
Since there are so many options to choose from, you can go as sweet, nutty, or chocolatey you like! Cadbury may be a childhood favorite – but growing up doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun now and then!
Donuts
While not the healthiest of treats, donuts are definitely a fun and whimsical alternative to your traditional, super-sweet mithais. Donuts can also be customized with cute sprinkles, glazed icings, and delicious flavors! Consider the possibilities of a donut display at your wedding – your guests will be amazed and enticed!
Photo courtesy of Annabella Charles Photography.
Macarons
A charming French delicacy, macarons are also a great dessert option for your wedding reception. They’re classy, tasty, and come in a variety of flavors! Macarons are a light dessert – so you and your guests can enjoy the treats without feeling overly full.
The easy serving and display aspects make them an excellent decor – perhaps in a tiered stand! Plus, the gorgeous pastel colors are sure to match any wedding patterns and decorations.
A beautiful black and white macaron tower by Cake Opera Co.
Fruits
If you’re worried about the dangers of sugar or dairy in all its forms, why not go simple with a lovely fruit display? Fruits are naturally sweet and delicious, and they can be arranged in beautiful ways to look both appetizing and festive!
Photo courtesy of montereygourmetshops.com.
What do you think about going mithai-free at your wedding?