Name: Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch size); 15 oz pumpkin puree (1 can); 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tablespoons bourbon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup extra granulated sugar (for topping)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 72 reviews

If you’re looking to elevate your pumpkin pie game to something truly spectacular, I have just the thing for you: the Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie Recipe. This dessert is a dazzling twist on the classic, combining the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices with the rich depth of bourbon and the irresistible crispy brûlée topping. It’s perfect for cozy evenings, holiday gatherings, or any time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of something unforgettable. Trust me, once you try this pie, it quickly becomes a cherished favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass mixing bowl with black stripes is on a white marbled surface, holding three layers of ingredients: two bright yellow eggs on one side, deep orange pumpkin puree in the middle, and dark brown spice powder on top, with a woman's hand whisking them together. Near the bowl, there are two empty eggshell halves, and a can of pumpkin puree lies on its side in the upper left corner of the image. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie Recipe plays a crucial role in building its luscious flavor and perfect texture. From the smooth pumpkin puree to the boozy bourbon splash and the crunchy caramelized sugar topping, each element is both simple and essential.

Pre-made pie crust (9-inch size): A convenient base that crisps beautifully and holds the filling perfectly.
15 oz pumpkin puree: The heart of the pie, bringing that classic pumpkin flavor and creamy texture.
3/4 cup packed brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and balances the pumpkin’s earthiness.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Evens out the sweetness and helps create a smooth custard.
3 large eggs: Provide structure and richness without overwhelming the delicate pumpkin taste.
1 cup heavy cream: Ensures a silky, luxurious mouthfeel that’s absolutely dreamy.
1/2 cup milk: Lightens the cream slightly so the filling isn’t too dense.
2 tablespoons bourbon: Infuses the pie with a subtle warmth and complexity you’ll adore.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors while adding a hint of sweetness.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic pumpkin spice, a must for that inviting aroma.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a nutty, cozy spice note.
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Gives a gentle zing that brightens the filling.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1/4 cup extra granulated sugar (for topping): The star ingredient for that signature caramelized brûlée finish.

How to Make Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. Fit your pre-made pie crust into the pie pan, following the package directions. Don’t forget to prick the bottom and sides with a fork to prevent those pesky air bubbles from forming during baking. The crust will bake evenly, giving you a sturdy base for all that delicious filling.

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs until the mixture is perfectly smooth. This step is key for achieving a creamy, custard-like texture. Once smooth, add the heavy cream, milk, bourbon, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Blend thoroughly with a whisk or electric mixer until everything is fully combined and silky. At this point, your kitchen will start smelling absolutely incredible!

Step 3: Bake the Pie

Pour the luscious pumpkin mixture into your pie crust, smoothing out the top with a rubber spatula. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set, but still with a slight wobble in the center, and a knife inserted comes out clean. This step ensures the pie is perfectly cooked without being dry or overdone.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

Remove your pie from the oven and let it cool on the counter for about 20 minutes to come down to room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for at least two hours so the filling can firm up completely. This chill time not only helps with slicing later on, but also lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Create the Brûlée Topping

Just before serving, sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the top of your chilled pie. Using a kitchen torch, carefully melt the sugar until it develops that gorgeous, golden caramel crust we all love. The brûlée layer adds a fantastic textural contrast and a touch of elegance that really makes this Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie Recipe shine.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the brûlée sugar to cool briefly before slicing so it hardens into a satisfying crunch. Now you’re ready to indulge in the luxurious combination of creamy filling, spicy warmth, boozy depth, and crisp caramelized topping that makes this pie truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie Recipe

This image shows a close-up of a pie with one visible layer. The pie crust is golden brown with a rough, crimped edge that stands up around the pie. Inside, the filling is a shiny, dark amber color with a textured surface made of small, uneven bits giving it a slightly bumpy look. The pie is in a white dish, and the background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A dollop of freshly whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few toasted pecans on top creates a beautiful finishing touch that complements the flavors perfectly. You can even add a light drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness and aroma.

Side Dishes

Pair this pie with classic fall beverages like hot apple cider, a bold cup of coffee, or even a spiced bourbon cocktail for an elevated tasting experience. It also goes wonderfully alongside roasted nuts or a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual mini Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pies in ramekins for a stunning presentation at dinner parties. Or, arrange slices artistically on a rustic wooden platter with a scatter of autumn leaves and cinnamon sticks for a festive vibe that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover pie well-covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it rests, but be sure to add the brûlée topping fresh before serving again, so you enjoy that signature caramel crisp every time.

Freezing

You can freeze the pie unbaked in its crust for up to 1 month wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Bake it straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. For baked pie freezing, the brûlée topping won’t fare well, so freeze without the caramelized sugar and add it after thawing.

Reheating

Warm individual slices gently in a low oven or microwave just until the filling softens slightly. Avoid reheating too long, which can dull the custard’s texture. Remember that the brûlée topping should always be freshly torch-caramelized for best results.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pie crust instead of pre-made?

Absolutely! Homemade crust works wonderfully and adds your personal touch. Just make sure it’s rolled out to fit a 9-inch pan and prick the bottom before baking to avoid bubbles.

Is it necessary to use a kitchen torch for the brûlée topping?

While a kitchen torch is the best tool for a perfectly even caramelized crust, you can also use your oven’s broiler for a few minutes—just watch closely to prevent burning.

Can I substitute bourbon with another liquor?

Yes, you can! Dark rum or brandy are excellent alternatives that complement the pumpkin and spices nicely, but bourbon’s vanilla and caramel notes really make this pie shine.

How do I know when the pie filling is fully baked?

The filling should be mostly set with a slight jiggle in the center when gently shaken. A knife inserted should come out clean with no wet batter clinging to it.

Can I prepare this pie a day ahead?

Definitely. In fact, chilling the pie overnight helps the flavors merge beautifully. Just wait to brûlée the topping until right before serving for that fresh, crisp finish.

Final Thoughts

The Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie Recipe is truly a showstopper that brings something special to any dessert table. Its rich, creamy filling, sparkling caramelized sugar topping, and that subtle hint of bourbon create a perfect harmony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own favorite fall treat—it’s comfort and elegance all in one slice.