Turkish Pumpkin Dessert (Kabak Tatlısı)

Turkish Pumpkin Dessert (Kabak Tatlısı) - A Sweet Taste of Autumn - When the air turns crisp and pumpkins begin their seasonal debut, few desserts capture the essence of autumn quite like Turkish Pumpkin Dessert (Kabak Tatlısı). This classic and traditional Turkish recipe transforms simple pumpkin slices into tender, caramelised morsels of syrupy sweetness. This is a dessert that's comforting, homely, and utterly elegant.

Kabak Tatlısı reminds us that true culinary beauty lies in simplicity and that even the humblest of ingredients can become something truly special. I first made this dessert in 2023 according to the image date and I have been enjoying it ever since!

What Is Turkish Pumpkin Dessert (Kabak Tatlısı)?

Kabak Tatlısı literally means pumpkin dessert in Turkish. It's made by slowly cooking pumpkin with sugar until soft, glossy, and candied in its own syrup. Typically topped with crushed walnuts, tahini drizzle, or a dollop of Turkish clotted cream (kaymak), it's the perfect balance of natural sweetness and nutty richness. If you can't get Kaymak, clotted cream works perfectly well.

Turkish Pumpkin Dessert celebrates the pure, earthy flavour of pumpkin and keeps things simple, just tender sweet pumpkin topped with crushed walnuts and kaymak/tahini.

You can add a couple of Cloves and a Cinnamon stick to the Pumpkin whilst cooking to get a spiced aromatic syrup instead.
Turkish Pumpkin Dessert (Kabak Tatlısı) is a celebration of autumn, warmth, and tradition. This dish brings the flavours of Türkiye to your table.

The History & Cultural Significance

Pumpkin (balkabağı in Turkish) has deep roots in Turkish cuisine, particularly in Anatolia, where Kabak Tatlısı is prepared as a seasonal delicacy during the cooler months. Families traditionally enjoy it after hearty meals or during special gatherings.

It's a dessert that reflects the Turkish culinary philosophy beautifully - making magic from simple, humble ingredients.

Jump to:

• What Is Turkish Pumpkin Dessert (Kabak Tatlısı)?
• The History & Cultural Significance
• Why you'll love this Turkish Pumpkin Dessert
• Ingredients Snapshot
• How to make it - Stove top and Oven Baked
• Serving Suggestions
• Storage Tips
• Notes & Tips
• FAQs About Turkish Pumpkin Dessert
• Turkish Pumpkin Dessert (Kabak Tatlısı)

Why you'll love this Turkish Pumpkin Dessert

• Naturally sweet - No artificial flavours or additives.
• Vegan friendly - Simply omit dairy toppings for a completely plant based treat.
• Elegant yet easy - Perfect for dinner parties or festive tables.
• Nutrient rich - Packed with vitamin A, C, and fibre. This is definitely not a healthy dessert but we might as well get some vitamins in whilst indulging!

Ingredients Snapshot

Pumpkin - Kabocha, Sugar, Jack o Lantern and even Butternut Squash works. Most Pumpkin or Squash works here because once cooked with sugar, the Pumpkin and Squash caramelises beautifully. In Turkey, the best option is Balkabağı.
Sugar - Caster or Granulated Sugar work well as well as Light Brown Sugar.
Walnuts - chopped or crushed for the topping
Kaymak - Turkish Clotted cream. This can be replaced with any clotted cream.
Tahini - This complements the sweetness of the Pumpkin perfectly.
Optional extras - Cinnamon Stick and Cloves can be added to the syrup for a hint of Spice.

How to make it - Stove top and Oven Baked

For the full recipe with ingredient measurements, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the page:

Method 1: Traditional Stovetop Kabak Tatlısı

Prepare the Pumpkin

Peel and cut the pumpkin into wedges or cubes. Place in a large pot.

Add Sugar

Sprinkle sugar evenly over the pumpkin pieces. Cover and let rest for 5-6 hours (or overnight). The pumpkin will release its natural juices.

Cook

Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then simmer until fork tender (about 30-40 minutes). The liquid will turn syrupy and glossy and the pumpkin will be caramelised. 

Cool and Serve

Let cool in the syrup. Serve chilled or at room temperature with crushed walnuts, tahini, or kaymak.

Method 2: Oven-Baked Kabak Tatlısı

Layer and Rest

Arrange pumpkin slices in a baking dish, sprinkling sugar between layers. Cover and rest 5-6 hours or overnight (the pumpkin will release syrupy juices).

Bake

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Remove the cover, add optional cinnamon or cloves, then bake uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes, turning midway. Every 20 minutes, spoon the syrup over the pumpkin for a glossy finish.

Serve

Cool completely before serving. Top with crushed walnuts, a drizzle of tahini, or a spoonful of kaymak.

Serving Suggestions

Traditionally served cold, Kabak Tatlısı is wonderful on its own or with a variety of toppings:

• Crushed walnuts or toasted sesame seeds
• A drizzle of tahini for a nutty contrast
• A dollop of kaymak or clotted cream for richness
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a modern twist
• Light dusting of cinnamon for warmth
• Serve at room temperature or chilled alongside Turkish coffee or black tea for an authentic Turkish experience or as part of a Turkish mezzo.

Storage Tips

Fridge - Once cool, store in an airtight container for up to 5-6 days.
Freeze - This dessert can be frozen, BUT the texture will soften slightly. Thaw slowly in the fridge.
Serve - Best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

Notes & Tips

Pumpkin Variety - Turkish balkabağı is ideal for its sweet, dense texture. Sugar pumpkins or butternut squash work well too.


Make Ahead - This dessert can be prepared in advance and it tastes even better after resting overnight.


Customise - Try experimenting with garnishes like pistachios, date syrup, carob or even orange zest for a citrusy lift.
 

Add Spice - Add 1 Cinnamon Stick and 2 Cloves to the syrup when boiling or baking for a hint of Spice.

FAQs About Turkish Pumpkin Dessert

1. Can I use any type of pumpkin?

Yes! Choose sweet, dense varieties like kabocha or sugar pumpkin for the best texture.

2. Is Kabak Tatlısı vegan?

Absolutely, just skip the kaymak or clotted cream.

3. How can I make it less sweet?

Reduce the sugar to your taste; it will still caramelise beautifully.

4. How long does it take to make?

Hands on time is short, but allow time for resting. The dessert does require slow cooking to achieve its signature glossy, tender texture. 

Try these other popular Turkish Recipes:

Ezogelin Soup - Traditional Turkish Bride Soup

Turkish Chocolate Pistachio Baklava

Adana Kebab - Turkish Lamb Kebabs

Trilece - Albanian Milk Cake (Tres Leches)

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