White Squash Pudding

6 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 45 m Total: 1 h Beginner
5.0/5 (4)
White Squash Pudding
Delicious… A very popular dish among our older Cajuns who have taught the Cajun youngin’s to enjoy squash! This traditional Cajun dessert made with white squash, butter, sugar, and vanilla is also known as poo-tin or puttin.

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 4 large or 8 small white squash (small is better)
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup flour
  • 3 tsp baking powder
  • dash of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Peel squash and cut in pieces. If using large squash, remove as many seeds as possible.
  2. Place squash in saucepan with enough water to cover. Boil until tender, about 10 minutes.
  3. Drain squash and mash with potato masher until smooth.
  4. Add sugar and butter to the warm mashed squash and mix well.
  5. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing thoroughly. Then add the evaporated milk, flour, baking powder, and salt, stirring until well combined.
  6. Pour mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  7. Bake at 325°F for 30 to 45 minutes or until golden brown on top and set in the center.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my squash pudding watery?

A: Make sure to drain the boiled squash thoroughly before mashing. Excess water will make the pudding too wet and prevent it from setting properly. Press the squash gently in a colander to remove extra moisture.

Q: Can I tell when it's done baking?

A: The pudding is done when the top is golden brown and the center is set (no longer jiggly). A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean, though it may be slightly moist since this is a pudding-style dessert.

Tips and Techniques

Use smaller white squash when possible - they tend to have fewer seeds and a better texture than larger squash. Add the sugar and butter while the squash is still warm so they melt and incorporate smoothly into the mixture.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • white squash: yellow squash or zucchini
  • evaporated milk: whole milk or half-and-half
  • vanilla extract: almond extract

Equipment Needed

  • potato masher
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • saucepan
  • mixing bowl

Historical Context

Squash pudding (poo-tin) is a classic example of Cajun ingenuity, transforming abundant garden vegetables into desserts. The term ‘poo-tin’ or ‘puttin’ comes from the French word for pudding, reflecting the Acadian roots of this sweet Southern Louisiana tradition.