Easy Pumpkin Spice Crème Brûlée Recipe: Classic Fall Dessert

Introduction

Indulge in the warm, cozy flavors of Pumpkin Spice Crème Brûlée, a creamy custard infused with aromatic spices and topped with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust. This elegant dessert is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday feasts, or simply treating yourself to a luxurious sweet treat. With its rich pumpkin flavor and delicate crunch, it’s a must try for any dessert lover!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Rich & Creamy – Silky smooth custard with deep pumpkin spice flavors.
✔️ Perfectly Caramelized Crust – That classic crack when you tap your spoon!
✔️ Elegant Yet Simple – A fancy dessert with minimal effort.
✔️ Great for Make Ahead – Prepare in advance and torch before serving.
✔️ Fall Inspired Flavors – Pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg in every bite.

Pumpkin Spice Crème Brûlée

Equipment Needed

  • 4 to 6 ramekins
  • Baking dish (for water bath)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Saucepan
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Kitchen torch (for caramelizing sugar)

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • ½ cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for caramelizing)
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp pumpkin spice blend
  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ⅛ tsp salt

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fats: 22g
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g

Pumpkin Spice Crème Brûlée

Step by Step Instructions

Total Time: 1 Hour 30 Minutes (Including Chill Time)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes

1. Preheat & Prepare the Ramekins

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
  • Place the ramekins in a deep baking dish and set aside.

2. Heat the Cream Mixture

  • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, and pumpkin purée.
  • Stir in pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and salt. Heat until steaming, but do not boil.

3. Whisk the Egg Yolks

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale and slightly thickened.

4. Temper the Eggs

  • Slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
  • Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove any lumps.

5. Bake in a Water Bath

  • Divide the custard evenly among the ramekins.
  • Pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the ramekins.
  • Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.

6. Chill the Custards

  • Remove from the water bath and cool at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until fully chilled.

7. Caramelize the Sugar

  • Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over each custard.
  • Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Crème Brûlée

Use a Kitchen Torch – It gives the best caramelization without overheating the custard.
Pumpkin Purée Only – Avoid using pumpkin pie filling, which contains extra sweeteners and spices.
Chill Completely – This helps the custard set properly for a creamy texture.
Adjust Spice Levels – Add more cinnamon or nutmeg for a stronger spice flavor.

Serving Suggestions

With Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream adds extra richness.
With Chocolate Shavings – A sprinkle of dark chocolate enhances the flavors.
Pair with Espresso – The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness perfectly.

Pumpkin Spice Crème Brûlée

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! Prepare the custards up to 2 days in advance and caramelize the sugar just before serving.

Q: Can I bake this without a water bath?

A: A water bath ensures even baking and prevents cracking. Skipping it may lead to a less smooth texture.

Q: What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

A: You can caramelize the sugar under the broiler for a few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Spice Crème Brûlée is a delightful fall twist on the classic French dessert. Its creamy pumpkin infused custard and crispy caramelized sugar topping is the perfect way to celebrate the season’s flavors. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this dessert is sure to impress!

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