How to Make Day of the Dead Dulces De Calabasas

Dulces de Calabasas is a traditional confection made in honor of the Day of the Dead celebration in Mexico and Latin American countries. However, Dulces de Calabasas isn't only reserved for Day of the Dead. In fact, Dulces de Calabasas can often be found displayed in candy dishes at supermarkets and restaurants, usually near the checkout register.

Things You'll Need

• 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1 qt. fresh pumpkin, chopped
• Water
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp. ground cloves
• Granulated sugar

Instructions

Learn How to Make Day of the Dead Dulces de Calabasas

1. Slice the pumpkin(s) in half and scoop out the pulp and seeds. Then, cut the pumpkin shell into 1 to 2 inch pieces and carefully trim away the outer skin from each. You should have enough fresh pumpkin flesh to measure 1 full quart.

2. Place the pumpkin cubes in a heavy-duty saucepan or Dutch oven and cover them with water. Cover the pot and bring the contents to a full boil. Allow it to boil for 20 minutes. Strain the contents, reserving the liquid.

3. Measure out 1 1/2 cups of the hot cooking water and pour it into a mixing bowl. Add the brown sugar, cloves and cinnamon, stirring until well blended. Pour this liquid mixture over the cooked pumpkin.

4. Allow the pumpkin mixture to sit overnight. The pumpkin will start to become candied after 8 hours, but a full 12 hours is desired to get the best consistency. Don't try to rush the process by refrigerating the pumpkin, or the candy won't turn out right.

5. Reheat the pumpkin slices the following day and keep it at a low boil for 15 minutes. Then, using a slotted spoon, scoop out each pumpkin cube and place it on a platter or cookie sheet lined with waxed paper.

6. Let the Dulces de Calabasas cure for at least another 12 hours. Roll each piece in granulated sugar and store it in an airtight glass jar. You can enjoy fresh Dulces de Calabasas during Day of the Dead and for up to 2 weeks afterward.

Tips & Warnings

• Make this confection with pumpkin intended for cooking (such as for pies) as opposed to carving pumpkins. The higher sugar content will produce much better results when you make Dulces de Calabasas.

• Dulces de Calabasas is often laid out on altars to honor the memory of those who have passed over and to provide nourishment for the spirits while they visit during Day of the Dead. Sometimes, Dulces de Calabasas is also left at gravesites.