As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there's nothing better than cozying up with comforting, seasonal dishes. One of the fall season’s most beloved ingredients is pumpkin, and today, I’m excited to share a delicious and easy recipe for roasted pumpkin with honey, cinnamon, and walnuts. This dish combines the natural sweetness of pumpkins with the rich flavor of honey, making it the perfect dessert or side dish for any autumn gathering.
Why Roasted Pumpkin with Honey?
Pumpkin is not only versatile but also packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. When roasted, it develops a sweet, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with honey’s natural sweetness. The addition of cinnamon and walnuts adds warmth and a delightful crunch, making this dish an irresistible treat.
The Recipe: Roasted Pumpkin with Honey
Ingredients:
- 2 small or medium pumpkins (I used 1 Hokkaido and 1 Butternut)
- 2 cups of hot water
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (reduce if you prefer less sweetness)
- Honey (for drizzling)
- Cinnamon powder (to taste)
- Chopped walnuts (optional)
- Vanilla whipped cream or ice cream (for serving)
Instructions:
Prepare the Pumpkin: Start by cutting the pumpkins into your preferred size and shape. There’s no right or wrong here – you can go for wedges or smaller chunks, depending on how you like it. Place the pumpkin pieces skin side up on a cooking tray.
Sweet Water Bath: In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups of hot water with 4 tablespoons of sugar. If you prefer your pumpkin to be less sweet, feel free to reduce the sugar. Pour this sweetened water into the tray, around the pumpkin pieces.
Roasting the Pumpkin: Preheat your oven to 374°F (190°C). Place the tray with the pumpkin into the oven and roast for 45 to 60 minutes. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your pumpkin slices. You’ll know it’s done when the pumpkin becomes soft – just poke it with a fork to check.
Add the Honey, Cinnamon, and Walnuts: Once the pumpkin is tender, carefully remove the tray from the oven. Empty out any remaining water from the tray. Gently turn each piece of pumpkin over, so the skin is now facing down. Sprinkle the roasted pumpkin with honey, a generous dusting of cinnamon powder, and some chopped walnuts for extra texture.
Final Roast: Increase the oven temperature slightly to 392°F (200°C) and roast the pumpkin again for 15 to 20 minutes. This step allows the honey to caramelize and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve: Once done, serve the roasted pumpkin warm. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, adding an indulgent finish to this seasonal treat.
Why This Recipe Works
- Hokkaido and Butternut pumpkins are ideal for roasting due to their naturally sweet and tender flesh. Hokkaido has a nutty flavor, while Butternut is smooth and creamy.
- Honey adds a natural sweetness without overpowering the pumpkin’s flavor. As it caramelizes during roasting, it enhances the dish’s rich, deep flavors.
- Cinnamon and walnuts offer a warm, aromatic depth and crunch, turning a simple dish into a comforting, flavorful delight.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted pumpkin with honey can be served as a dessert or a side dish. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or for impressing guests at a fall dinner party. Pair it with vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent touch or serve it alongside roasted meats or salads for a sweet contrast.
Health Benefits of Pumpkin
Besides being delicious, pumpkin is also highly nutritious. It’s rich in vitamins A and C, which support healthy vision and immune function. Pumpkin is also a good source of fiber, promoting digestive health and helping to keep you full and satisfied.
Conclusion
This roasted pumpkin with honey recipe is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy the flavors of fall. Whether you’re looking for a dessert or a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home. The combination of soft, sweet pumpkin with the richness of honey, the warmth of cinnamon, and the crunch of walnuts creates a comforting dish that celebrates everything we love about autumn.
So next time you're at the market, grab a couple of pumpkins and give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Enjoy the flavors of fall! 🍂