There’s a reason gulab jamun is the crown jewel of Indian desserts. Soft, spongy, and dripping in sweetness, this treat is a celebration in itself. But if you’ve ever paused mid-bite and asked, “Does a gulab jamun contains sugar syrup?”, you’re not alone. In this blog, we’ll break down everything from ingredients and syrup content to nutritional facts—all while keeping it rooted in tradition.
What Is Gulab Jamun Made Of?

Does a Gulab Jamun Contains Sugar Syrup?

How Much Sugar Syrup Is in One Gulab Jamun?
- One gulab jamun (approximately 40 grams) may contain 10–12 grams of sugar from the syrup alone.
- This does not include the sugar naturally present in the dough or from added flavorings.
Why Is Sugar Syrup Used in Gulab Jamun?
- Texture: The syrup softens the fried dough, turning it from a dense ball into a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy.
- Flavor: Infused with cardamom, rose water, or saffron, the syrup adds depth and aroma.
- Preservation: The high sugar content helps preserve gulab jamun for a few days without refrigeration.
Without the syrup, you’re left with just a fried dough ball—not the rich, comforting taste that brings back childhood memories.
How to Make Sugar Syrup for Gulab Jamun at Home
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 4 cardamom pods (crushed)
- A few strands of saffron (optional)
- 1 tsp rose water (optional)
Without the syrup, you’re left with just a fried dough ball—not the rich, comforting taste that brings back childhood memories.

777 Foods & Traditional Desserts: A Sweet Connection
Key Takeaways
- A gulab jamun contains sugar syrup that makes it moist, sweet, and aromatic.
- Sugar syrup content is up to 30% of the gulab jamun’s total weight.
- The syrup is flavored with cardamom, saffron, and rose water.
- Homemade or ready-made, using high-quality ingredients is key.
- 777 Foods offers authentic gulab jamun powder and mix for easy and delicious preparation.
FAQs
Technically, yes. But without syrup, it’s just fried dough. A gulab jamun contains sugar syrup to enhance taste and texture. Skipping it means losing its soul.
Gulab jamun syrup is highly concentrated. On average, 1 tablespoon of syrup contains about 12–15 grams of sugar. That’s why a gulab jamun contains sugar syrup in significant amounts.
Simple! Combine equal parts sugar and water. Add cardamom, saffron, or rose water. The result? A rich, fragrant syrup that defines the dessert. This syrup is what ensures gulab jamun in syrup remains moist and flavorful. Clearly, a gulab jamun contains sugar syrup that’s essential to the experience.
Unfortunately, yes. Because a gulab jamun contains syrup high in refined sugar, it’s best avoided by those managing blood sugar levels. A gulab jamun contains sugar syrup in amounts that can spike glucose quickly.