Irresistible Pumpkin Spice Crème Caramel Recipe for Fall

The rich, creamy texture of crème caramel paired with the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin spice is the perfect way to celebrate autumn. Imagine the smooth custard melting in your mouth, followed by the earthy spice blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This pumpkin spice crème caramel is a dessert that feels like a hug in every bite. I first whipped up this recipe on a crisp fall day when I was craving something indulgent but elegant, and let me tell you, it’s been a hit ever since. Whether you’re planning a festive dinner party or simply looking for a treat to enjoy with your pumpkin spice latte, this recipe is bound to impress.

What makes this recipe so special is the balance of flavors: sweet caramel, silky pumpkin-spice-infused custard, and a hint of vanilla that ties everything together beautifully. Not only is it a feast for your taste buds, but it’s also a showstopper dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, even if you’ve never tried your hand at custards or caramel before. So, grab your apron, and let’s get started on this seasonal delight that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Fall: The warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice make this crème caramel the ultimate autumn dessert.
• Simple Yet Elegant: Despite its fancy appearance, this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
• Impressive Presentation: The glossy caramel topping and creamy pumpkin custard make it a centerpiece-worthy dish.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s guaranteed to wow your family and guests, whether it’s a Thanksgiving dinner or a casual fall gathering.
• Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of silky custard and warm spices creates a dessert that’s indulgent yet not overly sweet.

What sets this recipe apart is the addition of pumpkin puree, which adds a subtle earthiness and rich texture to the custard. And, of course, the pumpkin spice blend takes it to the next level, creating a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. This isn’t just another crème caramel—this is fall on a plate.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This irresistible pumpkin spice crème caramel uses simple ingredients that come together to create magic. Most of these are pantry staples, while others add a seasonal twist.

• Granulated Sugar: For the caramel and the custard base (you’ll need about 1 cup total).
• Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient that gives this dessert its autumnal character. Make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling!
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the custard.
• Whole Milk: Helps to balance the richness of the heavy cream.
• Eggs: You’ll need 5 large eggs for the custard to set perfectly.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and complements the pumpkin spice beautifully.
• Pumpkin Spice Blend: The warm mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves is essential for that cozy fall flavor.

If you don’t have pumpkin spice blend handy, you can easily make your own by mixing 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, and a pinch of ground cloves. For substitutions, you can use half-and-half in place of heavy cream and milk, or try a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a non-dairy version.

Equipment Needed

• Ramekins: You’ll need 6-8 individual ramekins for portioning the crème caramel.
• Saucepan: For making the caramel.
• Mixing Bowls: A couple of bowls to whisk together the custard ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps blend the custard smoothly.
• Baking Dish: A large dish to create a water bath for the ramekins.
• Kitchen Thermometer (optional): Useful for checking the caramel temperature.

If you don’t have ramekins, you can use a large ceramic or glass baking dish for a single crème caramel that you can slice to serve. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Also, when it comes to making caramel, a sturdy saucepan is your best friend—avoid thin-bottomed pans to prevent burning.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Bring a kettle of water to a boil for the water bath.
2. Make the caramel: In a medium saucepan, add 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of water. Heat over medium heat, swirling gently (don’t stir!) until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep amber color. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be cautious—it’s incredibly hot!
3. Immediately pour the caramel into the bottoms of your ramekins, tilting them slightly to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to cool and harden.
4. Prepare the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, 1/2 cup (120g) pumpkin puree, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together 5 large eggs, 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons pumpkin spice blend. Combine this mixture with the pumpkin cream mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
6. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps (this step is optional but ensures a silky smooth texture).
7. Carefully pour the custard mixture into the prepared ramekins over the hardened caramel.
8. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish. Add the hot water to the dish until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath ensures even cooking.
9. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
10. Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
11. To serve, run a knife around the edges of the ramekin, invert onto a plate, and gently lift. The caramel will cascade over the custard, creating a stunning presentation!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Making crème caramel can feel intimidating, but with a few tips, you’ll nail it every time:

• Don’t Stir the Caramel: Swirl the pan gently instead—stirring can cause sugar crystals to form and ruin the caramel.
• Keep an Eye on the Caramel’s Color: It should be a rich amber shade, but don’t let it burn! Remove it from heat as soon as it reaches the right hue.
• Strain the Custard: This step is optional but ensures you get that perfectly smooth texture.
• Don’t Overbake: The custard should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven. It will continue to set as it cools.
• Use Room Temperature Eggs: Cold eggs can make it harder to blend the custard evenly.

If you’re short on time, you can skip the caramel-making step and use store-bought caramel sauce. While homemade caramel is worth the effort, this shortcut can be a lifesaver!

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check your pumpkin spice blend for additives.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace the heavy cream and milk with full-fat coconut milk for a tropical twist.
• Maple Pumpkin Spice Crème Caramel: Swap granulated sugar for pure maple syrup in the custard for a deeper, more complex flavor.

For a fun twist, you can also add a bit of orange zest to the custard for a bright citrus note that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin spice. I’ve tried this variation, and it adds a delightful freshness to the dessert!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your pumpkin spice crème caramel chilled for the best texture. It’s perfect on its own, but you can garnish it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair. Pair it with a cup of hot apple cider or a pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate fall experience.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. To reheat, you can microwave for 10-15 seconds, but it’s best enjoyed cold. The flavors intensify after a day or two, making it a great make-ahead dessert.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This pumpkin spice crème caramel is surprisingly light for such a decadent dessert. Each serving contains approximately:

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 35g

The pumpkin puree is rich in vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and immunity, and the spices like cinnamon and ginger are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. While this dessert is a treat, it’s a delightful way to incorporate some seasonal produce into your meal.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall, this pumpkin spice crème caramel is the one. It’s easy to make, absolutely delicious, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will make you feel like a pro.

Give it a try and make it your own! Add your favorite twist, experiment with toppings, or share it with someone special. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—leave a comment below and let me know! Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, you can! Simply roast and puree fresh pumpkin until smooth. Make sure to strain it to remove excess moisture for the best results.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! In fact, crème caramel tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

What can I use instead of ramekins?

If you don’t have ramekins, you can use a large baking dish to make a single crème caramel. Adjust the baking time to ensure it cooks evenly.

Is there a way to make this dessert less sweet?

You can reduce the sugar slightly in the custard mixture, but be careful—too little sugar can affect the texture. Start by reducing it by 1-2 tablespoons and see how you like it!

How do I prevent the caramel from burning?

Keep the heat on medium and watch it closely as it cooks. Swirl the pan gently, and remove it from the heat as soon as it turns a deep amber color.

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