Evening snacks have always felt like a little ritual of love in my home. When I was a kid, my mom would have something freshly made waiting for me after school—a warm snack alongside a steaming cup of tea. My brother carried on the tradition too, and honestly, it’s one of those comforting memories that still makes me smile. Even now, I prefer snacks that are simple, sweet, and easy to make, because let’s be honest—nobody wants to spend hours in the kitchen when a quick treat will do.
Today I’m sharing a special recipe straight from the northern parts of Kerala: Loveletter, also called Elanji. The name itself feels romantic, doesn’t it? This snack is a soft crepe rolled up with a sweet coconut filling—simple, nostalgic, and just the right amount of indulgent. It’s perfect with your evening tea or coffee, and it also makes a fun addition to your kids’ tiffin box. Think of it as a sweet little gift wrapped up in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Batter
- Egg – 1
- All-purpose flour or whole wheat flour – 2 cups
- Water – 1 ¾ cups
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon
- Sugar – ½ teaspoon
For the Filling
- Grated coconut – 1 ¾ cups
- Sugar – 5 tablespoons (adjust to taste)
- Cardamom powder – ¼ teaspoon
Other Ingredients
- Ghee – ½ teaspoon
- Oil – 1 teaspoon
How to Make Loveletter (Elanji)
Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Filling
Heat a kadai and add a touch of ghee. Toss in the grated coconut and sugar, mixing gently until the sugar melts and the mixture turns glossy. Sprinkle in cardamom powder for that beautiful aroma. Switch off the flame, transfer to a bowl, and let it cool.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, egg, water, salt, and sugar until smooth. The consistency should be like dosa batter—thin enough to spread, but not watery. I used all-purpose flour here, but whole wheat works too if you want a slightly healthier twist.
Step 3: Cook the Crepes
Heat a pan and lightly brush it with oil. Pour in a ladle of batter and spread it thin like a dosa. Cook both sides gently, making sure the crepe stays soft and doesn’t brown.
Step 4: Fill and Roll
Spoon two or three tablespoons of the coconut filling into the center of each crepe. Roll it up tightly like a little parcel. Place it back on the pan for just a few seconds, flipping once to seal it perfectly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with tea or coffee. Each bite is sweet, soft, and lightly spiced with cardamom—a simple treat that somehow feels extra special.
A Taste of Nostalgia
Loveletter (Elanji) is the kind of snack that makes you pause for a moment and soak in the nostalgia. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and made with everyday ingredients, yet it feels like a delicacy. Kids love it, adults love it, and it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to the table. So go ahead—make a batch, pour yourself a cup of tea, and let this little Kerala classic brighten your evening.
