Introducing pumpkin pudding, a dessert you'll want to eat as Halloween approaches!

Pumpkins are often seen in supermarkets and markets in autumn. Pumpkins are also associated with Halloween, and are an essential ingredient in Japanese home cooking and baking

I think many people like the natural sweetness and soft texture

This time, we'll be introducing "Pumpkin Pudding," which uses pumpkins. This pudding is easy to make and allows you to enjoy the natural sweetness and creamy texture of pumpkins, making it the perfect autumn dessert

The origin and history of pumpkin pudding

Pumpkins are said to be native to South America and were brought to Japan by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Since then, they have been used in a variety of dishes in Japan, including sweets and stews, but the dessert known as "pumpkin pudding" is a relatively new one

Pudding itself is a dessert that originated in France, but in Japan, Japanese-Western fusion desserts using pumpkins have become popular and are enjoyed in many households. Pumpkin pudding is characterized by its natural sweetness and rich flavor, and is especially popular from autumn to winter

Nutritional Value of Pumpkin

Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A and dietary fiber, so it is said to be a food that supports eyesight and helps improve the intestinal environment.It also contains beta-carotene, which has antioxidant properties, so it is a food that can be expected to have health benefits

However, when it is processed into pudding, sugar and cream are added, so it is best to eat it while keeping in mind the nutritional balance

How to make pumpkin pudding

Ingredients (for 4 people)

• 200g pumpkin (peeled and seeded)
• 200ml milk
• 100ml fresh cream
• 50g sugar
• 2 eggs
• A little vanilla extract
• [Caramel sauce]
  • 50g sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water

How to make it

1. Peel the pumpkin
   , cut it into bite-sized pieces, and microwave until soft. After heating, strain thoroughly to make it smooth.
2. To make the pudding
   mixture, add sugar to the strained pumpkin and mix well. Then, gradually add the beaten eggs while mixing, then add the milk and cream and mix well again. Finally, add a few drops of vanilla extract.
3. To make the caramel sauce
   , add sugar and water to a pot and heat over medium heat. Once the sugar has dissolved and turned a deep brown, turn off the heat and quickly pour the sauce into the pudding mold.
4. solidified
   , pour the pudding mixture into the mold. Fill a double boiler with hot water and bake in a preheated oven at 170°C for about 30 to 40 minutes. Once cooked, let it cool and chill in the refrigerator.
5. Once
   it has cooled completely in the refrigerator, your pumpkin pudding is ready. You can add whipped cream or pumpkin seeds as a topping to make it even more delicious.

How to enjoy pumpkin pudding

Pumpkin pudding is the perfect dessert to enjoy the flavors of autumn. The slightly sweet flavor of the pumpkin and the smooth texture of the pudding create an exquisite balance, and the bitter caramel sauce adds a nice finishing touch. It's great to share with family and friends, or to enjoy alone at your leisure

This pudding takes advantage of the natural sweetness of pumpkin while delivering a creamy flavor

Be sure to try this as an autumn dessert