Pumpkin Crème Brûlée

Name: Pumpkin Crème Brûlée
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 185 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup pumpkin puree; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 5 egg yolks; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 6 tbsp brown sugar

185 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

Indulge in a creamy pumpkin custard with a crisp brown sugar crust, perfect for a fall dessert.

Prep

20 min

Cook

45 min

Total

185 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Pumpkin Crème Brûlée is a delightful twist on the classic French dessert, blending the rich, creamy texture of custard with the warm, comforting flavours of pumpkin and fall spices. The contrast between the smooth custard and the crisp, caramelized sugar topping makes this dessert both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying. This version of Crème Brûlée is perfect for those who love traditional flavours but want to add a seasonal touch to their dessert repertoire. By infusing the custard with pumpkin puree and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, you create a festive treat that is ideal for autumn gatherings or a special dinner party.

Instructions

Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).

Pro tip: Ensuring the oven is at the correct temperature is crucial for even baking.

Prepare the custard mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream and pumpkin puree. Heat over medium heat until just simmering, then remove from heat.

Pro tip: Do not let the mixture boil to prevent curdling.

Mix egg yolks and sugar

In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and granulated sugar until pale and thick. Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Pro tip: Whisk gently to avoid creating bubbles.

Combine mixtures

Slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly until well combined.

Pro tip: Temper the eggs by adding the warm liquid slowly to prevent curdling.

Strain and pour

Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a pouring jug. Divide evenly among six ramekins.

Pro tip: Straining ensures a smooth custard.

Bake the custards

Place ramekins in a baking dish and fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the centre.

Pro tip: A bain-marie helps cook the custard evenly.

Cool and chill

Remove ramekins from the water bath and let cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely chilled.

Pro tip: Chilling helps the custard set completely.

Caramelize the sugar

Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of brown sugar evenly over each custard. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden brown.

Pro tip: Move the torch in a circular motion for an even crust.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure the custard is smooth by whisking gently to avoid creating bubbles.
Use a kitchen torch for the best caramelized sugar crust.
Let the custards cool completely before adding sugar to ensure an even crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pumpkin crème brûlée?

Pumpkin crème brûlée is a creamy custard dessert infused with pumpkin and spices, topped with a caramelized sugar crust.

How do you make crème brûlée without a torch?

Preheat your oven's broiler and place the custards under it for a few minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning the sugar.

Can I make pumpkin crème brûlée in advance?

Yes, you can make the custard a day ahead and refrigerate it. Caramelize the sugar crust just before serving.

How many calories are in pumpkin crème brûlée?

Each serving contains approximately 290 calories.

Can I substitute heavy cream in crème brûlée?

Heavy cream provides the best texture and richness, but you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, though it may alter the texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pumpkin Crème Brûlée as a sophisticated dessert at your next gathering, pairing it with a light, crisp white wine or a hot cup of coffee to balance its sweetness. Make this dessert ahead of time by preparing the custard a day in advance and refrigerating it. Just caramelize the sugar topping right before serving for the best texture. Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in the fridge for up to two days, though the sugar crust may soften over time.