Description
This luscious Pumpkin Custard recipe features a smooth, spiced pumpkin-flavored custard set over a delicate caramel base. Baked in a gentle water bath for a creamy texture, this dessert combines seasonal pumpkin puree with warm spices and rich cream, making it a perfect treat for autumn gatherings or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Custard
- 3 large eggs
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of granulated sugar without stirring until it melts completely and turns a deep amber color. Immediately pour the hot caramel into six 6-ounce ramekins, swirling each to coat the bottom evenly. Allow the caramel to cool and harden.
- Make the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 2 egg yolks, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, and 1 cup pumpkin puree until smooth. Gradually whisk in 1 1/4 cups heavy cream and 1/2 cup whole milk. Then add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, and 1/4 teaspoon salt, whisking until combined.
- Preheat oven and prepare water bath: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Pour the custard mixture evenly into the caramel-coated ramekins. Arrange the ramekins in a deep baking dish. Carefully pour hot water into the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins, creating a water bath.
- Bake the custards: Transfer the baking dish to the oven and bake the custards for 40 to 45 minutes. The centers should be just set but still slightly wobbly when gently shaken.
- Cool and chill: Remove the ramekins from the water bath and allow them to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and develop flavors.
- Serve: When ready to serve, run a knife around the edges of each custard and invert onto dessert plates to reveal the shiny caramel top.
Notes
- Do not stir the sugar while melting to avoid crystallization; just let it melt evenly.
- Use a water bath to ensure gentle, even cooking and prevent cracking.
- Chilling the custard overnight improves texture and flavor.
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for best taste; canned pumpkin puree can be a convenient alternative.
- Adjust pumpkin pie spice to your preferred level of warmth and spice.
