Pumpkin Crème Brûlée: The Ultimate Fall Dessert

Pumpkin season is here, and what better way to celebrate than by giving a classic French dessert an autumn-inspired twist? Say hello to pumpkin crème brûlée—a luxurious blend of silky custard, warm spices, and that irresistible caramelized sugar top. Whether you’re prepping for a festive dinner or simply craving something cozy and elegant, this dessert is guaranteed to impress.

Not only is pumpkin crème brûlée surprisingly simple to make, but it also combines the richness of crème brûlée with the earthy sweetness of pumpkin purée, making it an ideal dessert for Thanksgiving, fall dinner parties, or a personal treat.

If you’re using canned pumpkin, make sure to use only high-quality pure purée like Libby’s® 100% Pure Pumpkin—avoid pie fillings that already contain sweeteners and spices. And when it comes to getting that perfect burnt-sugar crust, we highly recommend using a proper kitchen torch like the Jo Chef Kitchen Torch to achieve that beautiful amber-colored topping.

What is Pumpkin Crème Brûlée?

At its core, crème brûlée is a simple baked custard made from cream, eggs, and sugar, topped with a thin layer of caramelized sugar. The pumpkin version replaces part of the cream with pumpkin purée and infuses the custard with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice.

• Creamy and rich texture
• Balanced sweetness from pumpkin
• Crackly sugar crust for contrast
• Elegant individual servings in ramekins

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this dessert only requires a few pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need for a classic batch:

• 1 ¾ cups heavy cream
• 3 large whole eggs
• ½ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
• 1 cup pumpkin purée
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice

Optional Enhancements:

• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of ground ginger or cloves for more spice depth
• A splash of bourbon or rum for complexity

Equipment Checklist

To achieve a professional result at home, make sure you have the following tools:

• Ramekins (4 oz size)
• Kitchen torch or broiler
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Large baking dish for the water bath
• Mixing bowls and whisk

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

This process is straightforward but benefits from attention to detail. Follow these steps for a foolproof experience:

1. Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• If using homemade pumpkin purée, blend it until very smooth.

2. Make the Custard

• Whisk together eggs and sugar until light and frothy.
• Heat cream in a saucepan until it’s just about to simmer—do not boil.
• Slowly temper the eggs by adding hot cream gradually while whisking continuously.
• Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve for that silky smooth texture.
• Stir in pumpkin purée and cinnamon or spice blend.

3. Bake in a Water Bath

• Divide custard mixture evenly among ramekins.
• Place ramekins in a baking dish and pour in hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides.
• Bake for 35–40 minutes until centers are barely jiggly.

4. Chill and Torch

• Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• Just before serving, sprinkle each with 1–2 teaspoons sugar and torch until it forms a golden crust.

Tips for Success

• Don’t rush the tempering step—it prevents scrambled eggs.
• Use a fine sieve to catch any lumps from the eggs or pumpkin.
• Only caramelize the sugar right before serving; refrigeration causes the crust to melt.
• Test for doneness by tapping the ramekins—they should jiggle slightly in the center.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Pumpkin crème brûlée is a perfect make-ahead dessert:

• Prep up to 3 days in advance.
• Store tightly covered in the fridge (uncaramelized).
• Caramelize sugar only when ready to serve.
• Do not freeze—this affects texture.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your presentation and pairings with these ideas:

• Top with whipped cream or candied pecans
• Serve alongside a glass of chai, espresso, or spiced cider
• Use festive ramekins like pumpkin-shaped ones for fall flair
• Dust with cinnamon or nutmeg for aroma

Flavor Variations

Add your own creative spin to the classic recipe:

• Pumpkin Chai Crème Brûlée: Add steeped chai concentrate or spices
• Bourbon Pumpkin Brûlée: A splash of bourbon before baking
• Maple Pumpkin Crème Brûlée: Replace sugar with maple syrup
• Spiced Chocolate Pumpkin Brûlée: Add melted white or dark chocolate
• Ginger Pumpkin Crème Brûlée: Add crystallized ginger or fresh zest

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls for a flawless result:

• Overcooking leads to rubbery texture
• Skipping the sieve makes for grainy custard
• Caramelizing too early ruins the sugar top
• Using pumpkin pie mix instead of pure purée

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon?
Yes, it adds more complexity and warmth to the flavor profile.

Can I make it without a torch?
Yes, use the broiler—watch carefully to avoid burning.

Why is my crème brûlée grainy?
Usually caused by overheating or skipping the straining step.

Can I use canned pumpkin?
Absolutely, but use pure purée without added ingredients.

Can I make this in a larger dish instead of ramekins?
Yes, but increase bake time and test doneness carefully.

Is this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How far in advance can I make this?
Up to 3 days before serving, as long as you caramelize sugar fresh.

Can I substitute coconut milk for cream?
Yes, but the texture and flavor will vary—it may not set as firmly.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~300
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 4g

Note: Values may vary based on ingredients and portion size.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin crème brûlée is the kind of dessert that turns ordinary gatherings into memorable experiences. With its creamy pumpkin base, crackling sugar top, and warming spices, it brings together the best of fall in one elegant ramekin.

Whether you’re new to making custards or a seasoned baker, this treat offers the perfect balance of ease and indulgence. Go ahead—break the sugar crust, savor the creamy center, and let fall officially begin.

If you enjoyed this, you might also love experimenting with other fall favorites like Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls or adding a brûlée twist to other traditional desserts.

Print