Pumpkin Halwa (Instant Pot)

5 from 85 votes

Pumpkin halwa (or kaddu ka halwa) is a delicious and versatile Indian dessert made with pumpkin, milk, sugar, and ghee. It is a popular dish during the fall and winter months when pumpkins are in season. This easy version is made in the Instant Pot and requires minimal monitoring, unlike the traditional stovetop version. This rich and creamy dessert is perfect for both special occasions and everyday cravings.

Prep Time5

Cook Time20

Total Time25

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Indian

Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Servings:

Calories: 239kcal

Author: Shilpa Kerur

Equipment

Ingredients

4 cups pumpkin peeled and cubed
¼ cup + 2 tablespoons ghee (use store-bought or homemade ghee)
½ cup whole milk
¼ - ½ cup sugar (adjust as per taste and sweetness of the pumpkin)
½ cup milk powder
½ teaspoon cardamom powder
2 tablespoon almonds chopped
2 tablespoon pistachio chopped

Instructions

Set Instant Pot in saute mode and add 2 tablespoons of ghee.
Once it heat, add the pumpkin cubes and saute on high for 2-3 minutes.
Add the milk and mix well.
Cover the Instant Pot lid and set it to Pressure Cooker mode. Pressure cook on high for 4 minutes, then do a quick release of pressure.
Mash the pumpkin with a potato masher or fork.
Put the Instant Pot back on saute mode.
Add sugar and milk powder. Saute for 2-3 minutes (until the sugar melts).
Add ¼ cup of ghee. Saute until the halwa begins to thicken and come together
Add cardamom powder and chopped nuts. Mix well.
Serve halwa warm or cold.

Video

Notes

Use a sweet and flavorful variety of pumpkins for the best taste. I have seen that sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins are ideal choices as they have a natural sweetness that enhances the halwa's flavor.

Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preferences and the natural sweetness of the pumpkin. Start with ¼ cup of sugar and gradually add more and taste as you go.

I have used green cardamom to flavor this halwa. Other ingredients that can be used are saffron strands, a pinch of nutmeg, or cinnamon.

Nutrition