How Many Calories Are in 1 Besan Ladoo?

November 3, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutritional data, a single 30-gram serving of besan ladoo can contain approximately 140 to 200 calories, varying significantly based on preparation. This popular Indian sweet, made from roasted gram flour (besan), ghee, and sugar, is a delicious but calorie-dense treat that warrants a closer look for anyone mindful of their diet.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of a single besan ladoo varies depending on size, ingredients, and preparation method. Key factors include the amount of ghee and sugar used, which significantly influence its overall energy density. Understanding these variables allows for more informed dietary choices.

Key Points

Calorie Range: A single besan ladoo typically contains between 140 and 307 calories, depending on its size and recipe.
Impact of Ghee: Ghee is a major contributor to the high calorie count and fat content, with recipes using varying amounts.
Sugar's Role: The amount of powdered sugar significantly increases the calorie total without adding nutritional value.
Base Nutrients: The base ingredient, besan (gram flour), offers protein, fiber, and complex carbs, which makes it more filling than other sweets.
Healthier Alternatives: Reducing ghee, swapping sugar with jaggery, or adding nuts can lower the calorie count and increase nutritional value.
Moderation is Essential: Due to its energy density, besan ladoo should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Unpacking the Caloric Content of Besan Ladoo

Determining the exact calorie count for a single besan ladoo is not straightforward, as the final number can fluctuate widely. Homemade versions and commercially prepared ones can differ dramatically. The primary drivers of the caloric load are the three core ingredients: besan (gram flour), ghee (clarified butter), and sugar. A small, 30-gram ladoo might contain around 140 calories, while a larger, richer version could easily exceed 300 calories. This section breaks down the contribution of each component.

The Role of Besan (Gram Flour)

Besan, derived from ground chickpeas, is the foundation of the ladoo. It provides complex carbohydrates, protein, and dietary fiber. While calorie-dense on its own, it also offers nutritional benefits like a low glycemic index, which can help regulate blood sugar levels. A half-cup serving of plain besan contains approximately 178 calories, contributing a substantial but wholesome portion to the final product. Its high protein and fiber content help increase satiety, potentially making the sweet more filling than other desserts.

The High-Calorie Impact of Ghee

Ghee is a significant contributor to the high caloric density of besan ladoo. Rich and aromatic, it is essential for the ladoo's signature melt-in-the-mouth texture. However, a single tablespoon of ghee contains around 120 calories, and many recipes call for a considerable amount. The quality of the ghee also plays a role, with homemade variants often having different fat profiles than store-bought ones. The abundance of saturated fat in ghee means that while it provides fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), its intake must be moderated, especially for those with cardiovascular health concerns.

Sugar's Sweet but Caloric Load

Sugar is the third major player in the besan ladoo recipe. Standard recipes often use powdered sugar, which offers zero nutritional value beyond simple carbohydrates. Its primary function is to provide sweetness, but it adds a significant number of empty calories. For instance, a small besan ladoo could contain around 15 grams of sugar, contributing roughly 60 calories just from the sweetener. Using alternatives like jaggery can slightly alter the nutritional profile by introducing some minerals, but the caloric impact remains high.

Variation in Calories by Recipe

Different recipes and serving sizes result in varied calorie counts. Commercial ladoos often have standardized portion sizes, but homemade ones are much less consistent. The inclusion of nuts like almonds, cashews, or pistachios can also add to the calorie count, though they also provide additional protein and healthy fats.

Comparison of Besan Ladoo Calories


Feature	Small (30g) Besan Ladoo	Large (42g) Besan Ladoo	Tarla Dalal (1 piece)
Calories	~140 kcal	204 kcal	307 kcal
Carbohydrates	17.6 g	18 g	38.1 g
Fat	6.0 g	13 g	13.6 g
Protein	4.0 g	4 g	8 g

Creating Healthier Besan Ladoo Alternatives

For those who love besan ladoo but want to reduce the calorie and sugar content, several modifications can be made without sacrificing flavor. These alternatives cater to health-conscious individuals, including those with dietary restrictions.

Reduce the Ghee: Decreasing the amount of clarified butter is the most effective way to lower the calorie count. Some recipes substitute a portion of the ghee with other ingredients or use non-dairy options.
Swap the Sugar: Replacing refined sugar with natural, low-glycemic sweeteners is a popular strategy. Jaggery is a traditional alternative, though its sweetness profile is different. Stevia or other sugar substitutes can also be used, but this may alter the texture and binding properties.
Add Nutrient-Dense Ingredients: Incorporating nuts, seeds, and extra fiber can make the ladoo more filling and nutritious. Almond flour or other ground nuts can be added to the besan to enhance flavor and health benefits.
Control Portion Sizes: Given the high energy density, simply enjoying a smaller ladoo is a straightforward approach. Knowing the average calorie count can help in managing consumption.

A Balanced Approach to Enjoying Besan Ladoo

Besan ladoo is a classic Indian sweet, cherished for its rich taste and festive associations. The nutritional value is a mixed bag, offering beneficial protein and fiber from the besan but also a high number of calories, sugar, and saturated fat from the ghee and added sweetener.

To enjoy besan ladoo responsibly, moderation is key. A single, small ladoo can be a satisfying treat that fits into a balanced diet. For those tracking calories, being aware of the ingredient variations and their impact is essential. Opting for homemade versions allows for full control over the amount and type of sugar and fat used, making it easier to manage the nutritional profile. Healthy alternatives, such as using jaggery or reducing ghee, can provide a similar flavor profile with a more favorable nutritional outcome.

Conclusion: Mindful Indulgence is Key

In summary, the calorie count of 1 besan ladoo is not a fixed number and is highly dependent on its size and the proportion of ghee and sugar. While a small piece might be around 140 calories, larger versions can be much more. By understanding the contribution of each ingredient, consumers can make informed choices, whether that means enjoying a traditional ladoo in moderation or exploring healthier, homemade variations. The key is mindful indulgence, allowing you to savor this beloved sweet without compromising your health goals.

Learn more about the nutritional benefits and drawbacks of besan ladoo

Frequently Asked Questions

Besan ladoo is high in calories primarily due to the generous use of ghee (clarified butter) and sugar in its traditional preparation.

Yes, besan ladoo can be included in a weight loss diet, but only in strict moderation. Its high protein and fiber content can help with satiety, but its high calorie density necessitates controlled portion sizes.

Yes, healthier versions can be made by using less ghee, replacing sugar with jaggery or other natural sweeteners, and adding nutrient-rich ingredients like nuts and seeds.

The calorie count varies significantly because recipes differ greatly in the proportion of besan, ghee, and sugar, along with the serving size.

Traditional besan ladoo is not recommended for diabetics due to its high sugar content, which can cause blood sugar spikes. However, sugar-free versions made with jaggery or other substitutes may be suitable in small quantities.

The main ingredients contributing calories are besan (gram flour), ghee, and sugar. Ghee and sugar are particularly high in calories per gram.

To reduce calories, you can decrease the amount of ghee, use a natural sugar substitute like jaggery, and add more fiber-rich elements like coarse nuts or seeds.