Sweet Pumpkin & Sweet Potato Candy: A Delicious Piloncillo Treat

Updated at: 20/05/2025

Fall's vibrant hues inspire this unique candy recipe, blending the sweetness of pumpkin and sweet potato with the rich, earthy notes of piloncillo. This isn't your grandma's candy; it's a sophisticated treat that showcases the best of autumn's bounty. Imagine the creamy texture of perfectly cooked sweet potatoes intertwined with the subtle spice of pumpkin, all bound together by the deep caramel-like sweetness of piloncillo. The result is a delicious and unexpected confection perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!).

This recipe expertly balances sweetness and subtle earthy notes, creating a candy that's both comforting and refined. Forget complicated candy-making techniques; this recipe is surprisingly simple and accessible, even for novice cooks. Ready to create this autumnal delight? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to make your own batch of Pumpkin & Sweet Potato Candy.

Tools Needed

  • Peeler
  • Saucepan (wide or deep)

Ingredients

  • Sweet potato: 1 kg
  • Pumpkin: 2 kg
  • Piloncillo (Panela): 4 cones (250g each)
  • Cinnamon stick: 1
  • Water: 2 cups

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare Ingredients

  • Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Many prefer to peel the sweet potatoes to achieve a better flavor and faster cooking time.
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Many prefer to peel the sweet potatoes to achieve a better flavor and faster cooking time.
Prepare Ingredients

Step 2. Simmer the Mixture

  • In a wide or deep saucepan, combine the peeled sweet potatoes, pumpkin, piloncillo cones, and cinnamon stick.
  • Add two cups of water. (The pumpkin will release its own water during cooking).
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the saucepan.
  • Once boiling, stir frequently to ensure even cooking and to help the piloncillo dissolve and coat the sweet potatoes and pumpkin.
In a wide or deep saucepan, combine the peeled sweet potatoes, pumpkin, piloncillo cones, and cinnamon stick.Add two cups of water. (The pumpkin will release its own water during cooking).Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the saucepan.Once boiling, stir frequently to ensure even cooking and to help the piloncillo dissolve and coat the sweet potatoes and pumpkin.
Simmer the Mixture

Step 3. Cook Until Tender

  • Continue to stir and gently turn the pieces of pumpkin and sweet potato every so often to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption. The candy will shrink as it cooks.
  • Cook for approximately one hour, or until the pumpkin and sweet potatoes are tender and have a rich color. Cooking time may vary depending on the quantity.
Continue to stir and gently turn the pieces of pumpkin and sweet potato every so often to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption. The candy will shrink as it cooks.Cook for approximately one hour, or until the pumpkin and sweet potatoes are tender and have a rich color. Cooking time may vary depending on the quantity.
Cook Until Tender

Read more: No-Bake Carlota de Limon: Easy Mexican Lime Icebox Cake Recipe

Tips

  • If you prefer, you can omit peeling the sweet potatoes.
  • Keep a close eye on the candy as it cooks, stirring and turning frequently to prevent burning and to ensure even cooking.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the piloncillo?

Yes, you can substitute dark brown sugar or panela for a similar rich, caramel-like flavor. The amount might need slight adjustment depending on the sweetness of your substitute.

2. How long will the candy keep?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the candy should last for about a week. For longer storage, refrigerate it.


This Sweet Pumpkin & Sweet Potato Candy recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional autumnal treats. The unique combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress, making it a perfect addition to your fall baking repertoire. Enjoy the sweet reward of your culinary creation!