When the weather begins to cool and vibrant orange pumpkins make their grand appearance in the market, it becomes the perfect time to indulge in warm, comforting seasonal desserts. Among the many Indian sweet delicacies that celebrate the flavors of harvest season, Pumpkin Halwa—also known as Kaddu ka Halwa—stands out as a delightful treat. Rich, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying, this halwa blends the natural sweetness of pumpkin with ghee, spices, and nuts to create a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Whether you’re looking for a festive sweet, a quick dessert for guests, or simply a cozy dish to brighten your evenings, pumpkin halwa is an excellent choice. Here’s everything you need to know about this tasty seasonal dessert—from ingredients and preparation to tips for perfecting the recipe every time.
Why Pumpkin Halwa?
Pumpkin has long been celebrated in Indian kitchens for its versatility and health benefits. It’s naturally sweet, packed with vitamins, and extremely easy to cook. In halwa form, the pumpkin transforms into a silky, luscious dessert that pairs beautifully with cardamom, saffron, almonds, and cashews.
Apart from being delicious, pumpkin halwa is also:
- Nutrient-rich: High in vitamin A, antioxidants, and fiber.
- Light on the stomach: Unlike some heavier Indian sweets, this halwa is easy to digest.
- Customizable: You can make it richer with khoya, lighter with jaggery, or vegan by substituting ghee with oil.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare a bowl of aromatic pumpkin halwa, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 cups grated pumpkin (red or yellow pumpkin works well)
- 4 tablespoons ghee
- 1 cup milk (or ½ cup milk + ½ cup water)
- ½ cup sugar (adjust as per sweetness of pumpkin)
- ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
- 7–8 cashews, chopped
- 7–8 almonds, chopped
- A few strands of saffron (optional)
- 1 tablespoon raisins
- 2 tablespoons khoya/mawa (optional for richness)
How to Make Easy and Delicious Pumpkin Halwa
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin
Start by peeling the outer skin of the pumpkin. Cut it into chunks and grate it using a normal grater. Freshly grated pumpkin cooks faster and gives better texture than chopped pieces.
Step 2: Sauté in Ghee
Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a pan. Add the cashews, almonds, and raisins. Fry them until golden and aromatic. Remove and keep aside.
In the same pan, add the remaining ghee and the grated pumpkin. Sauté it for 7–8 minutes on medium flame until it softens and reduces slightly.
Step 3: Add Milk and Cook
Pour in the milk. Mix well and let the pumpkin cook fully. This step helps the pumpkin absorb the creamy flavor and gives body to the halwa. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the milk evaporates.
Step 4: Sweeten and Flavor
Add sugar and mix. The halwa will loosen a bit as the sugar melts—keep cooking until it thickens again.
Next, add cardamom powder, saffron (soaked in a little warm milk), and khoya (if using). Continue stirring for 3–4 minutes until everything blends well and the halwa turns glossy.
Step 5: Add Nuts and Finish
Add the fried nuts and raisins back into the halwa. Mix them evenly. Cook for a final minute and turn off the flame.
Your rich and aromatic pumpkin halwa is ready to be served hot!
Serving Suggestions
Pumpkin halwa tastes amazing in multiple ways:
- Serve warm with a spoonful of ghee drizzled on top.
- Pair it with puris for a festive breakfast.
- Enjoy it chilled for a pudding-like texture.
- Garnish with pistachios for a touch of color and crunch.
If you’re preparing it for guests or festivals like Diwali or Navratri, try serving it in small earthen cups—this adds a traditional charm and keeps the halwa warm for longer.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Halwa
- Choose ripe pumpkin: A deep orange-yellow pumpkin gives the best sweetness and flavor.
- Don’t skip sautéing: Frying the pumpkin in ghee before adding milk helps enhance aroma.
- Adjust sweetness wisely: Taste your pumpkin—if it’s naturally sweet, use less sugar.
- For healthier versions: Replace sugar with jaggery powder; just add it after turning off the flame.
- Add khoya sparingly: It adds richness but should not overpower the pumpkin’s natural taste.
Why This Dessert Is Perfect for the Season
Pumpkin comes into abundance during the cooler months, making pumpkin halwa a perfect seasonal delight. The warmth of ghee, cardamom, and saffron complements crisp evenings beautifully. It’s also quick to prepare and brings festive vibes to your table without much effort.
Whether you’re celebrating a festival, hosting family, or simply indulging in some homemade sweetness, pumpkin halwa is a dessert that satisfies every craving.
