Bhai Dooj, the beautiful festival celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters, will be observed this year on October 23, 2025 — the third day after Diwali. The festival is known by different names across India: “Bhau Beej” in Maharashtra, “Bhai Phonta” in West Bengal, and “Bhai Tika” in Nepal and certain parts of North India. On this day, sisters apply tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, perform aarti, and pray for their long and happy lives, while brothers give gifts and promise lifelong protection.

If you want to add a modern twist to the traditional sweets this Bhai Dooj, try making these two delicious chocolate-based desserts that are quick, simple, and guaranteed to delight your brother.

Chocolate Truffles

Ingredients:
200 g dark chocolate, 100 ml fresh cream, 1 tbsp butter, cocoa powder, chopped dry fruits, and chocolate chips (optional).

Method:

1. Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces for easy melting.

2. Warm the cream in a pan (don’t boil it) and add the chopped chocolate. Cover and let it sit for 1–2 minutes.

3. Stir slowly until the chocolate melts completely, then add butter and mix until smooth.

4. Refrigerate the mixture for 2–3 hours until firm.

5. Shape small balls using your hands (apply a little butter or cocoa powder to prevent sticking).

6. Roll the truffles in cocoa powder or dip them in melted chocolate.

7. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also fill them with chopped dry fruits for extra flavor.

Chocolate Barfi

Ingredients:
2 cups mawa (khoya), sugar to taste, 2 tbsp cocoa powder, 1 tbsp ghee, milk (as needed), and finely chopped dry fruits.

Method:

1. Heat ghee in a pan and roast the mawa over low flame until it turns light golden and fragrant.

2. Add sugar and stir until it dissolves. The mixture will loosen slightly.

3. Mix in cocoa powder and a little milk if required to smoothen the texture.

4. When the mixture starts leaving the sides of the pan, spread it evenly on a greased tray.

5. Sprinkle chopped dry fruits on top and press lightly.

6. Once it cools slightly, cut into barfi pieces and serve.