Ingredients for Easy Pumpkin Dessert (Kabak Tatlısı)
- 1 kg (about 2 lb) butternut squash (pumpkin)
- 2 water glasses (about 200 ml / 3/4 cup + 1 tbsp each) granulated sugar
- 1 water glass (about 200 ml / 3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) water
- Walnuts, for topping and garnish
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Dessert (Kabak Tatlısı)
Peel 1 kg (about 2 lb) of butternut squash and slice it into pieces. Cut each slice into thirds.
Place the prepared squash pieces into a pot. Add 2 water glasses of granulated sugar and 1 water glass of water. Partially cover the pot with its lid and cook on low heat until the squash softens.
Once the cooked squash has cooled slightly, transfer it to a serving plate.
Serve the squash on the serving plate together with walnuts. If you like, you can also sprinkle crushed walnuts or crushed hazelnuts over the top. We served ours with walnuts this time. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
The most important tip when making this dessert is to use a ripe squash. To check for ripeness, simply press your thumbnail into the skin. If your nail pierces the skin easily, the squash is ripe and ready to use.
Allowing the squash to release its own juices is the key to great flavor. If you have time, let it sit with the sugar overnight (at least 5–6 hours). This way you won't need to add extra water, and the taste will be much more intense.
Cook the squash slowly on the lowest heat setting, not over high heat. If it cooks too quickly, the outside can become mushy while the inside stays firm.
Be sure to use a deep, wide pot for cooking.
When the squash is nearly done, open the lid and raise the heat slightly — this will reduce the syrup to a thick, molasses-like consistency and give your squash pieces that signature glass-like shine.
If you prefer a more caramelized, intense flavor, you can transfer the cooked squash from the pot onto a baking tray and bake for about 10 minutes.
How about trying a different recipe with butternut squash? Don't miss the Pumpkin Balls Recipe!
About This Recipe
This delicious dessert is not only a pleasure to eat — its health benefits are also countless. Butternut squash contains vitamins A, B, and C. Beneficial for the digestive system, it also helps prevent constipation. It is known to aid in the healing of inflammation anywhere in the body. It supports eye health, and its seeds are a powerhouse of wellness in their own right.
As a final note, make sure to include butternut squash in your diet this winter. With its rich vitamins and minerals, you can strengthen your immune system, boost your metabolism, and achieve a radiant, healthy complexion.
