UNDERSTANDING MILK CAKE: PRODUCTION, PROPERTIES, AND TRADITIONAL RELEVANCE

Milk cake is a popular traditional Indian dessert, especially in the northern and central regions of the country. While its high sugar content limits consumption, milk cake offers several nutritional benefits due to its milk-based composition. It is a rich source of calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, and provides other nutrients such as dietary fiber, phosphorus, and vitamin B12. Additionally, milk cake may support weight management and improved blood sugar control when consumed in moderation. This review discusses the health benefits of milk cake, highlighting its potential contributions to human nutrition beyond its role as a sweet indulgence. Understanding these benefits can inform the development of healthier variants of milk cake and encourage its mindful consumption as part of a balanced diet.