How to Make Sheer Khurma

Slofoodgroup Team June 27, 2025

Sheer Khurma: A Rich and Creamy Vermicelli Dessert with Dates and Nuts

Sheer Khurma is a must-try Pakistani dessert that’s both indulgent and rooted in tradition. This beloved dish brings together roasted vermicelli, caramelized dates, and a medley of nuts all simmered in fragrant saffron-infused milk. 

What Is Sheer Khurma?

“Sheer” means milk and “khurma” means dates in Persian, and that pretty much sums up the heart of this dish. It’s a creamy, milk-based pudding made special with toasted nuts, sweet dates, and a delicate mix of spices like saffron and cardamom. It’s rich, comforting, and full of texture and is equally delicious warm or cold.

Sheer Khurma Recipe

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 5 to 6

Ingredients

• 4 teaspoons ghee, divided
• ½ cup vermicelli
• ½ cup cashews
• ½ cup almonds, roughly sliced
• 2 tablespoons pistachios
• 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
• 5 cups whole milk
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ teaspoon saffron
• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
• Dried rose petals, for garnish

Procedure

1. Heat 2 teaspoons of ghee in a skillet over medium heat. Add the vermicelli and roast it on low, stirring continuously, for about 2 minutes or until it turns golden brown. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the remaining ghee. Toss in the cashews, almonds, and pistachios. Roast for 2 minutes, then add the chopped dates. Cook for another 2 minutes until the nuts are golden and the dates begin to soften slightly. Set aside.
3. Pour the milk into a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the roasted vermicelli and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vermicelli is tender.
4. Stir in the sugar and cook for another 5 minutes. Add the saffron strands and reduce the heat to low. Continue simmering until the mixture starts to thicken slightly.
5. Add the cardamom powder and stir to combine. Turn off the heat.
6. Top with the roasted nuts, softened dates, and a sprinkle of dried rose petals for a beautiful finishing touch.

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Whether you serve it at a holiday gathering or enjoy a bowl quietly on the couch, this Sheer Khurma recipe is bound to become a go-to comfort dessert. You can find many of the specialty ingredients used in this recipe in our online spice shop.