Name: Pumpkin Creme Brulee Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 4 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups heavy cream; 3 tablespoons light brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Pinch ground cloves; Pinch ground ginger; 6 large egg yolks; 4 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch kosher salt; 6 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree; 6 tablespoons granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 85 reviews

If you’re craving a cozy dessert that combines the creamy luxury of classic custard with the warm, comforting flavors of fall, this Pumpkin Creme Brulee Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s that perfect sweet treat that brings together smooth pumpkin puree and aromatic spices under a perfectly crisp caramelized sugar topping. Whether you’re making it for a holiday dinner or just treating yourself, this dessert feels like a warm hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of several ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are two whole brown eggs placed next to a white ceramic pitcher filled with milk. A medium white bowl holds a bright orange puree, likely pumpkin. Nearby, a smaller white bowl contains light brown brown sugar, and another small bowl holds white granulated sugar. A round wooden container with a lid features coarse salt inside. A speckled white bowl contains an assortment of ground spices in different warm shades—brown, reddish-brown, and light yellow. There is a small white bowl with dark amber vanilla extract as well. The setup is clean and organized with a neutral color palette. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting to know the ingredients really highlights how wonderfully simple yet deeply flavorful this Pumpkin Creme Brulee Recipe is. Each component works together to create a harmonious balance of richness, spice, and sweetness that defines this dessert.

2 1/4 cups heavy cream: This is the silky, rich base that gives the custard its luscious texture.
3 tablespoons light brown sugar: Adds a delicate molasses note that enhances the fall spices.
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings that signature warm and sweet spice aroma.
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a subtle earthiness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Pinch ground cloves: Introduces a gentle depth and complexity to the spice mix.
Pinch ground ginger: Adds a slight zing that lifts the whole flavor profile.
6 large egg yolks: Essential for thickening the custard while adding richness.
4 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard without overpowering the spices.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with a smooth, fragrant touch.
Pinch kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the spices.
6 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, providing creamy texture and classic pumpkin flavor.
6 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping): Used to create the signature brittle caramel layer on top.

How to Make Pumpkin Creme Brulee Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Equipment

Start by preheating your oven to 300 degrees F. While it warms up, bring a large kettle of water to a boil—this water bath will cook your custards gently for the perfect creamy consistency. Place six 6-ounce ramekins into a roasting pan, ready to be filled.

Step 2: Infuse the Cream with Spice

In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Heat over medium heat for about 6 to 7 minutes, until the cream just starts to bubble around the edges—make sure it never comes to a rolling boil, as that can affect the texture.

Step 3: Whisk Your Custard Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and pale. Now, slowly add three ladlefuls of the hot spiced cream into the egg mixture while whisking vigorously—this tempers the eggs so they don’t scramble. Gradually incorporate the rest of the cream.

Step 4: Blend in the Pumpkin and Strain

Next, whisk the canned pumpkin puree into your custard mixture until fully smooth. For the silkiest texture, pass the entire mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a liquid measuring cup; this removes any bits and ensures a velvety final product.

Step 5: Bake in a Water Bath

Divide the custard evenly into the ramekins. Pour enough boiling water into the roasting pan to reach halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Carefully place the pan into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll want to see the edges set with a slight jiggle in the center—this mean the custard is perfectly cooked.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

Use tongs or a spatula to transfer the ramekins to a cooling rack, and let them stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Once cooled, cover them with plastic wrap and chill for at least 4 hours or up to 2 days. This step lets the flavors meld and the custard fully sets.

Step 7: Caramelize the Sugar

Right before serving, sprinkle one tablespoon of granulated sugar over the top of each custard. Use a kitchen blowtorch to melt and caramelize the sugar until it bubbles and turns a beautiful golden brown crust. If you don’t have a torch, you can use the broiler, but watch it closely to prevent burning.

How to Serve Pumpkin Creme Brulee Recipe

Four small white round ramekins hold a creamy orange pumpkin crème brûlée topped with a shiny, caramelized brown sugar crust that looks crispy and slightly cracked. Two ramekins have a silver spoon resting inside, showing the smooth custard beneath the caramel top. The ramekins are placed on a light beige cloth with a delicate texture that has small white pumpkins and cinnamon sticks scattered around for decoration. The surface beneath everything is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Though the caramelized sugar topping shines on its own, adding a delicate dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds can elevate the presentation and add a nice textural contrast. A light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg over the top also makes it feel extra festive and inviting.

Side Dishes

This Pumpkin Creme Brulee Recipe pairs beautifully with a simple cup of black coffee or a warm spiced chai. For a holiday gathering, serve alongside a fresh arugula salad with cranberries and pecans to offer a nice balance of savory and sweet. Light fruit compotes, like cranberry or spiced pear, can provide a tart counterpoint that complements the creamy custard.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming touch, serve the custards in mini pumpkin-shaped ramekins or small clear glasses, letting the layers be visible. You can also top with a single candied pecan or a tiny sprig of fresh rosemary to add an unexpected but delightful twist to this traditional dessert’s look and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pumpkin creme brulee keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two days when covered tightly with plastic wrap. Keep the caramelized tops separate if possible and apply the sugar topping and torch just before serving, so the crisp crust stays fresh and crunchy.

Freezing

It’s best not to freeze creme brulee because the texture suffers when thawed. The custard can become grainy or watery, and you’ll lose that creamy elegance that makes this Pumpkin Creme Brulee Recipe so special.

Reheating

If needed, gently warm the custards in a warm water bath for a few minutes to take the chill off before caramelizing the sugar topping. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the eggs to scramble and ruin the texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for this Pumpkin Creme Brulee Recipe?

Fresh pumpkin can work but needs to be cooked and pureed very smoothly before adding. Canned pumpkin puree is recommended because it’s consistent in texture and moisture, ensuring your custard sets properly.

What if I don’t have a kitchen blowtorch? Can I still make this recipe?

Absolutely! You can place the ramekins under your oven’s broiler for a few minutes to caramelize the sugar. Keep a close eye though, as it can go from perfectly browned to burnt quickly.

Why is the water bath necessary when baking the custards?

The water bath gently and evenly cooks the custards, preventing the eggs from curdling or baking too quickly. It’s key for achieving that smooth, creamy texture without cracks.

How long can I prepare this Pumpkin Creme Brulee Recipe ahead of time?

This dessert can be made up to two days in advance. Chilling it allows the flavors to meld and the custard to fully set, making it a great make-ahead option for entertaining.

Can I adjust the pumpkin spice to suit my taste?

Definitely! The spice blend in this recipe is a classic balance, but feel free to add more cinnamon or ginger if you prefer a bolder flavor, or reduce the cloves and nutmeg if you want something subtler.

Final Thoughts

Making this Pumpkin Creme Brulee Recipe is such a joy, especially when you see how effortlessly it turns simple ingredients into a stunning dessert. Each spoonful offers cozy autumnal flavors wrapped in a silky custard with a crisp caramel shell. You owe it to yourself to try this recipe and experience a truly memorable twist on a beloved classic.