Dulces De Calabasas Mexican Pumpkin Candy
Experience a taste of traditional Mexican confectionery with Dulces de Calabazas, a vibrant and comforting pumpkin candy that’s a hallmark of autumn festivities. This delightful treat combines tender pumpkin wedges simmered to perfection in a rich, spiced syrup made with piloncillo, cinnamon, cloves, and optional hints of orange peel and vanilla. As the pumpkin caramelizes, it absorbs the warm, earthy flavors of the syrup, transforming into a glossy, golden-brown indulgence. Perfectly suited for Dia de los Muertos celebrations or cozy fall evenings, this Mexican pumpkin candy is an easy yet soul-warming recipe that showcases the magic of simple, natural ingredients. Serve it warm or at room temperature with a drizzle of syrup for a sweet, aromatic bite that captures the heart of Mexican culinary heritage.
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Ingredients
- 1 medium (about 4 lbs) pumpkin
- 2 cones (about 8 oz total) piloncillo (Mexican brown sugar cone)
- 2 sticks cinnamon stick
- 4 cups water
- 2 strips (optional, for extra flavor) orange peel
- 4 pieces cloves
- 1 teaspoon (optional) vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1
Wash the pumpkin thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut it into large wedges, leaving the skin on. Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp.
Step 2
In a large pot, combine the piloncillo cones, cinnamon sticks, water, orange peel (if using), and cloves. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the piloncillo is fully dissolved.
Step 3
Once the syrup is ready, carefully place the pumpkin wedges into the pot, skin-side down. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
Step 4
Simmer the pumpkin for about 1.5 to 2 hours, occasionally spooning the syrup over the pumpkin as it cooks. It’s ready when the pumpkin is tender and caramelized with a deep golden-brown color.
Step 5
If using vanilla extract, stir it into the syrup during the last 5 minutes of cooking for an added layer of flavor.
Step 6
Allow the pumpkin to cool slightly before serving. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, drizzling extra syrup on top for extra sweetness.
Step 7
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (3251.4g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2305.0 |
| Total Fat 3.0g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 0.3g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0g | |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 70.9mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 582.2g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 14.8g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 505.1g | |
| Protein 18.8g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 717.9mg | 0% |
| Iron 17.5mg | 0% |
| Potassium 6448.8mg | 0% |
Source of Calories