Best Indian Pastries for Chai Lovers: What Pairs Best?

Chai without a snack? That’s like a movie without popcorn! 

The right pastry makes every sip better, adding just the right crunch, sweetness, or buttery goodness.

Whether you love crispy, flaky treats or something rich and indulgent, we’re here to help you find the perfect pastry to enjoy with your chai in Calgary. 

Here are some of the best pastries to order from best pastry shop in Calgary for chai lovers: 

1. Khari Biscuit

Flaky, crispy, and unbelievably light, Khari Biscuit is the perfect partner for your chai break. The moment you take a bite, it crumbles beautifully, leaving behind a buttery richness that melts in your mouth.

It isn’t too salty or too sweet, just that perfect middle ground that keeps you reaching for more. Dunk it into your chai for a few seconds, and watch it soak up the flavors while still holding its crunch. You’ll tell yourself just one, but we all know that’s a lie!

2. Jeera Puff

If your chai needs a little something extra, Jeera Puff is exactly what you’re looking for. Crispy, golden, and filled with the warm aroma of toasted cumin seeds, it brings a savory, slightly spicy twist to your tea time. The flaky layers add the perfect crunch, while the bold cumin flavor balances the sweetness of chai in the best way possible.

It’s buttery, it’s crunchy, and it disappears way too fast. Once you try it, you’ll never want plain biscuits again!

3. Mawa Cake

Soft, rich, and filled with the comforting taste of milk and cardamom, Mawa Cake is the kind of pastry that makes you slow down and savor every bite.

Unlike regular cakes, this one has a dense, buttery texture thanks to the magic of slow-cooked milk solids. Every bite is soft, moist, and perfectly sweet, making it an instant chai-time favorite. If you love traditional Indian flavors, this is the treat that will bring back sweet, nostalgic memories with every sip.

4. Nankhatai

There’s one cookie that was made for chai, and it’s Nankhatai. These crumbly, buttery shortbread biscuits have just the right amount of sweetness with a hint of cardamom that lingers on your taste buds. They’re delicate, light, and practically melt in your mouth, making them impossible to resist.

Dunk them in your tea for a few seconds and enjoy the way they soak up the warmth, turning into pure, velvety bliss. One bite and you’ll understand why they’ve been a favorite in Indian homes for generations.

5. Veg Puff

Some snacks are tasty, and then some are so good they feel like a warm hug. Veg puffs fall into the second category. With a crispy, flaky outer layer and a spiced potato-pea filling, this savory delight is the perfect mix of crunch and comfort.

The buttery pastry melts in your mouth, while the masala-infused filling adds just the right kick. Pair it with a steaming cup of chai, and you’ve got a snack that is simple, satisfying, and seriously addictive.

6. Atta Biscuit

Not all biscuits need to be sugar-packed to be delicious. Atta biscuits prove that simplicity can be just as indulgent. Made with whole wheat flour, ghee, and a hint of jaggery, they have a rich, nutty flavor that complements the boldness of chai instead of competing with it. With every bite, you get a firm yet crumbly texture that soaks up tea beautifully.

If you love your chai with something wholesome and lightly sweet, these biscuits deserve a permanent spot on your snack list.

7. Shakarpara

Ever had a snack that starts off crispy, then melts in your mouth? That is the magic of shakarpara. These tiny golden bites are deep-fried dough pieces coated in a thin layer of sugar syrup, creating a delightful contrast of crunch and sweetness.

Their mild sweetness pairs wonderfully with the spices in chai, balancing every sip with a satisfying crunch. Pop one in your mouth, and before you know it, you are reaching for another.

Consider yourself warned because these disappear fast.

8. Dry Fruit Roll

When your sweet tooth kicks in, but you do not want anything too heavy, a dry fruit roll is the answer. Packed with crushed almonds, cashews, pistachios, and dates, this chewy, nutty pastry delivers just the right amount of natural sweetness without going overboard.

It is dense yet soft, rich yet balanced, and a perfect pairing for chai when you want something indulgent but not overly sugary. If you love textures and flavors that unfold with every bite, this one is going to be your new favorite.

9. Coconut Barfi Slice

Not all sweets need layers of frosting to feel luxurious. Coconut barfi is the kind of dessert that keeps things simple yet indulgent.

The rich, milky base is loaded with fresh coconut, giving it a soft, slightly chewy texture that makes every bite feel special. With a hint of cardamom adding warmth, this sweet treat blends effortlessly with a steaming cup of chai. If you like your desserts rich but not overly sweet, this one belongs on your must-try list.

10. Rusk (Tea Toast)

There is a reason why rusk and chai have been best friends for generations. These golden-brown slices are baked to the perfect crunch, making them ideal for dunking into a hot cup of tea.

The second it touches your chai, it softens just enough to soak in the flavors without turning mushy. It is a no-fuss, no-frills snack that gets better with every sip. If you have never tried this classic duo before, now is the time to start.

11. Milk Cake Slice

Some desserts demand your full attention, and milk cake is one of them. This slow-cooked, caramelized delight has a dense, grainy texture that melts the moment it touches your tongue.

It is rich, full-bodied, and just sweet enough to complement the bold spices in chai without overpowering them. Whether you savor it slowly or go for a big bite, this sweet is pure comfort in dessert form.

12. Elaichi Bun

Biting into an elaichi bun is like revisiting an old childhood memory. Soft, fluffy, and lightly scented with cardamom, this simple yet satisfying pastry pairs beautifully with a warm cup of chai. Tear it apart, dip it in your tea, or toast it with butter for an extra layer of richness. However you choose to enjoy it, this bun brings a little touch of nostalgia to every sip.

Each of these pastries brings something unique to the table. Which one are you excited to try next?