Pumpkin Payasam, also known as Kaddu ki Kheer or Gummadikaya Payasam, is a rich and creamy dessert made with pumpkin, almonds, and saffron.

This delightful recipe is perfect for the festive season, offering a comforting sweetness and an elegant texture. As pumpkins are abundantly available, this dish serves as a fantastic way to celebrate festive moments.

With the richness of almonds and the aroma of saffron, this kheer is sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe Details

Recipe Cuisine: Indian

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes

Cooking Time: 25 Minutes

Serves: 4

Author: Jeyashri

Recipe Category: Dessert

Description: Kaddu ki Kheer | Pumpkin Payasam | Gummadikaya Payasam, a creamy dessert made with pumpkin, almonds, and saffron.

Ingredients

Pumpkin: 1 and 1/4 cups (cubed)

Almonds: 10 (boiled and peeled)

Ghee: 1 teaspoon

Milk: 3 and 1/2 cups + 2 tablespoons

Saffron: A pinch (soaked in warm milk)

Cardamom Powder: A pinch

Sugar: 1/4 cup

पम्पकिन खीर | Pumpkin Kheer Recipe | Lal Kaddu ki Kheer | Kheer Recipes | Sanjeev Kapoor Khazana

Video by Sanjeev Kapoor Khazana

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin and Almonds

Peel the pumpkin and cut it into small cubes. Boil the almonds in water for 5 minutes, then let them cool for 10 minutes. Peel the almonds and set them aside. Soak saffron in 2 tablespoons of warm milk for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Pumpkin

Heat ghee in a pressure cooker and sauté the pumpkin cubes for 2 minutes. Add 1 and 1/4 cups of milk to the pumpkin and pressure cook for 2 whistles. Allow the pressure to release naturally.

Step 3: Blend the Ingredients

Cool the cooked pumpkin completely, then blend it along with the peeled almonds into a smooth paste.

Step 4: Prepare the Kheer

Transfer the blended paste to a heavy-bottomed pan or back into the pressure cooker. Add 2 and 1/4 cups of milk and mix well. Cook the mixture over medium flame for 5-7 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent burning.

Step 5: Add Saffron and Cardamom

Dear Lykkers! After 5 minutes, add the saffron-infused milk and stir well. Sprinkle the cardamom powder and mix thoroughly. Switch off the flame.

Step 6: Sweeten the Kheer

Add sugar and mix well. It is recommended to add sugar after turning off the flame to prevent curdling of the milk.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Optional: Garnish with chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Serve the kheer chilled for a refreshing treat or enjoy it warm for a comforting dessert.

Notes

Substitute for Almonds: Cashew nuts can be used instead of almonds.

Cooking Method: The pumpkin can also be sautéed in a pan before pressure cooking it inside a separate vessel.

Sugar Alternative: Condensed milk can replace sugar to enhance the richness of the kheer.

Enjoy this creamy and flavorful Kaddu ki Kheer during festivals or as a special dessert for any occasion. It perfectly captures the joy of celebrations with its delightful taste and texture!