As I whisked away the dust from summer recipes, a cozy aroma nudged me toward my happy place: the kitchen. There’s something about the arrival of fall that whispers, “It’s pumpkin time!” That’s where this Pumpkin Pie Brûlée comes in—a delightful twist on the classic dessert. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, boasting a velvety pumpkin filling kissed with a hint of orange zest, and topped with a delightful caramel brûlée layer that adds a spectacular crunch. Not only is it a fun and festive addition to your Thanksgiving table, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make, ensuring you can spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. Curious about how to elevate your holiday dessert game? Let’s dive in! Why is Pumpkin Pie Brûlée a Must-Try? Unique Twist: This isn’t your average pumpkin pie! The brûlée topping adds an extraordinary crunch, making each slice a delightful surprise. Festive Flair: Perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering, this pie brings seasonal cheer to your table. Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you can achieve a stunning dessert without fussing over complicated techniques. Flavor Harmony: The spiced pumpkin filling, enhanced with orange zest, beautifully contrasts with the sweet crunch, making every bite irresistible. Make-Ahead Friendly: Don’t stress on the big day! Prepare your pie a day in advance and add the brûlée layer right before serving for the best results. Try pairing it with a dollop of Pumpkin Cream Cheese for an added depth of flavor, or enjoy it with a warm drink for a cozy evening at home! Pumpkin Pie Brûlée Ingredients For the Pie: Pie Dough – A pre-made package provides a convenient structure; homemade dough can elevate freshness. Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup) – Sweetens the filling; consider brown sugar for a richer taste. Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon) – Adds warm spice to enhance the pumpkin flavor; swap for pumpkin pie spice for complexity. Egg (1) – Binds the filling; use any large egg for the best results. Water (1 tablespoon) – Helps create an egg wash; milk can lend a richer flavor. Pumpkin Puree (15 oz. can) – The star of the filling; freshly cooked pumpkin offers a unique flavor twist. Pumpkin Pie Spice (1 tablespoon) – Amplifies seasonal flavors; use store-bought or your blend. Orange Zest (1/2 teaspoon) – Brightens the filling and complements the pumpkin; lemon zest works similarly. Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness; sea salt can add a gourmet touch. Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 oz. can) – Provides creaminess and sweetness; evaporated milk is a lighter option. Eggs (2) – Adds extra binding; replace with flax eggs for a vegan alternative. For the Brûlée Topping: Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup) – Forms the crunchy caramel layer; avoid brown sugar for even caramelization. For the Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream: Heavy Cream (1/2 cup) – The base for whipped cream, adding richness; coconut cream is a great dairy-free substitute. Confectioners’ Sugar (2 teaspoons) – Sweetens the whipped cream; maple syrup can offer a unique sweetness. Vanilla Bean Paste (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances flavor with delightful vanilla specks; pure vanilla extract works too. Bourbon (1/2 teaspoon) – Adds depth to the whipped cream; omit for a non-alcoholic version. Nutmeg, Orange Zest, and Mint Leaves – For garnish, enhancing both presentation and flavor. This Pumpkin Pie Brûlée is not only a holiday favorite but also a conversation starter at gatherings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Pie Brûlée Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough Begin by rolling out one circle of pre-made pie dough into a 9-inch pie plate. Ensure the dough fits snugly, allowing the edges to hang over a bit. Flute the edges for a decorative touch and place the crust in the freezer for about 15 minutes while you prepare the filling, giving it a chance to set. Step 2: Prep the Decor With the second dough circle, cut out decorative leaves or other shapes using cookie cutters. Brush these with an egg wash made of 1 tablespoon water mixed with the egg to encourage browning, then sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon sugar. Arrange these cutouts around the fluted edge of the pie crust to add a festive flair. Step 3: Make Filling In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together 15 oz. of pumpkin puree, 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice, 1/2 teaspoon of orange zest, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until smooth. Microwave the mixture for 1 minute to warm through and enhance the flavors, then let it cool slightly before whisking in 14 oz. of sweetened condensed milk and 2 eggs until well combined. Step 4: Bake the Pie Pour the prepared filling into the chilled pie shell, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for another 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is just set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Once baked, chill the pie in the fridge for at least 2 hours to fully set. Step 5: Prepare Brûlée Top For the luscious brûlée topping, spread 1/2 cup of granulated sugar in a thin, even layer on a baking sheet. Bake in the oven at 400°F for about 6-8 minutes until lightly golden brown. Once cooled, process the baked sugar into fine shards to create a delicate topping that will add wonderful texture to your Pumpkin Pie Brûlée. Step 6: Whip Cream In a mixing bowl, pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and begin whipping with an electric mixer on medium speed. Once it thickens slightly, gently fold in 2 teaspoons of confectioners’ sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste, and 1/2 teaspoon of bourbon until soft peaks form. This creates a rich, velvety whipped cream to complement your pumpkin pie. Step 7: Caramelize Sugar Before serving the pie, sprinkle the fine caramel shards evenly over the top. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar by holding the flame above until it melts and turns golden brown, or place it under the broiler for a minute while closely watching to prevent burning. Shield the crust with foil if needed. Step 8: Serve Finally, slice the gleaming Pumpkin Pie Brûlée and dollop generous amounts of the bourbon vanilla whipped cream on top. For added flair, grate fresh nutmeg and sprinkle with a little orange zest. This delightful dessert is now ready to impress your guests and brighten your Thanksgiving table! What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Brûlée As the sweet, spiced aroma of pumpkin wafts through your kitchen, envision how you can create a heartwarming meal to complement your delightful dessert. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture balances the crunch of the brûlée topping, making for a delightful contrast on your plate. Apple Cider Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized veggies add a touch of sweetness and acidity, enhancing the sweetness of the pie. Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: With its fresh greens and nutty flavors, this salad brings bright, earthy notes that pair beautifully with pumpkin. Generous Helpings of Spiced Cider: The warm flavors of cinnamon and cloves in this beverage echo the spices in your pie, elevating the overall feast experience. Ginger Snap Cookies: A classic seasonal treat, their spiciness harmonizes with the pumpkin pie, providing delightful texture and flavor contrast. Nutty Pecan Pie Slices: For those who can’t resist a second dessert, the rich, crunchy elements of a pecan pie make a perfect balance with the creamy pumpkin filling. Vanilla Ice Cream: Drizzled over warm slices, this icy treat adds creaminess that perfectly complements the heat and crunch of the brûlée. A Scoop of Whipped Cream: The lightness of a dollop topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon stirs up a comforting nostalgia and enhances your pumpkin pie’s flavors. Freshly Brewed Coffee: Rich and aromatic, it offers a cozy finish to your meal, and pairs wonderfully with the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie. Make Ahead Options These delightful Pumpkin Pie Brûlée options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday preparations! You can prepare the pie filling and crust up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the prepared pie in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap. The baked pie can also be made ahead and kept chilled for 3 days. For the best texture, refrigerate the pie without the brûlée topping, adding that lovely layer of caramelized sugar shortly before serving. Just remember to allow the pie to chill properly, ensuring it’s as delicious as when freshly baked. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll free up time for celebrating with your loved ones! Storage Tips for Pumpkin Pie Brûlée Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool completely before storing. It can sit out for up to 2 hours but should be refrigerated afterwards. Fridge: Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This will maintain the flavor and prevent drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie without the brûlée topping for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes before adding the fresh brûlée layer. Enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors in your Pumpkin Pie Brûlée! Pumpkin Pie Brûlée Variations & Substitutions Feel free to customize this delightful Pumpkin Pie Brûlée and make it your own! Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream in the whipped topping for a delicious dairy-free alternative. The tropical notes will add a lovely twist! Nutty Touch: Fold in crushed pecans or walnuts into the pumpkin filling for added crunch. Alternatively, sprinkle toasted nuts on top for a delightful texture contrast. Sweetener Swap: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup in the filling for a natural sweetness. This swap will lend an earthy depth to the dessert that pairs beautifully with pumpkin. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of ginger to the filling for a warm heat that complements the spiced flavors. It’s a fantastic way to awaken your taste buds! Citrus Zing: Swap the orange zest for lemon or grapefruit zest for a refreshing twist. The brighter citrus notes will provide a delightful contrast to the rich pumpkin. Alcohol-Free: Omit bourbon from the whipped cream and substitute with an extra splash of vanilla extract if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. It still retains that comforting flavor! Choose Your Cream: For a different flavor profile, replace sweetened condensed milk with evaporated milk, which lightens the pie while maintaining a rich taste. Experimenting with Toppings: Try different toppings like chopped chocolate or caramel sauce drizzled over each slice. This little twist can turn your Pumpkin Pie Brûlée into a whole new dessert experience! For a truly seasonal treat, serve alongside some warm Campfire Apple Pie packets for a fabulous fall dessert spread. The combination of pumpkin and apple flavors will surely capture the spirit of the season! Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Brûlée Precision Matters: Ensure your pie filling is just set before removing from the oven to achieve the perfect texture; underbaking can lead to a soggy filling. Chill Before Topping: Allow the pie to fully chill before adding the brûlée topping; the contrast between warm caramel and cold pie creates an incredible experience. Sugar Consistency: For a successful brûlée topping, process the granulated sugar into fine shards; this consistency ensures even caramelization and a delicate crunch without burning. Watch the Broiler: When using the broiler for caramelizing, keep a close eye to avoid burning; it happens quickly! A kitchen torch is a great alternative for more control. Garnish Elegantly: Adding fresh grated nutmeg and orange zest right before serving can elevate your Pumpkin Pie Brûlée’s flavor and presentation beautifully. Pumpkin Pie Brûlée Recipe FAQs What is the best pumpkin puree to use for the pie? Absolutely! While canned pumpkin puree is convenient and consistent, freshly cooked pumpkin puree can offer a deeper flavor profile. If using fresh pumpkin, select sugar pumpkins for the best results. Roast the pumpkin at 400°F until tender, then scoop out the flesh and blend until smooth for a delightful twist on your Pumpkin Pie Brûlée. How should I store leftover Pumpkin Pie Brûlée? Very important! Once the pie cools completely, cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, you preserve the flavor and texture. If you have leftover whipped cream, store it separately in an airtight container—this will keep it fluffy and fresh! Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Brûlée? Certainly! To freeze, wrap the pie (without the brûlée topping) tightly in cling film then in aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes before applying the fresh brûlée layer. What if my brûlée topping doesn’t caramelize properly? Don’t worry! If your sugar doesn’t caramelize, ensure it’s in a fine, even layer before torching or broiling. If it melts into a liquid, let it cool slightly and reprocess it into finer shards. Always keep a close eye on it when using the broiler, as it can burn quickly—opt for a kitchen torch for more control! Are there any dietary considerations for making this recipe? Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based condensed milk. If you need a vegan option, flax eggs work well as replacements for regular eggs. Make sure to check all labels for potential allergens and adapt according to your needs. The more the merrier when it comes to celebrating flavor with everyone! Irresistible Pumpkin Pie Brûlée: A Festive Fall Delight This Pumpkin Pie Brûlée is a festive fall dessert that combines a spiced pumpkin filling with a caramelized crunchy topping, perfect for Thanksgiving. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrChill Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pie1 package Pie Dough Pre-made or homemade0.25 cup Granulated Sugar Consider brown sugar for richer taste0.5 teaspoon Cinnamon Or use pumpkin pie spice1 large Egg For binding the filling1 tablespoon Water For egg wash15 oz Pumpkin Puree Canned or freshly cooked1 tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice Store-bought or homemade blend0.5 teaspoon Orange Zest Enhances flavors0.5 teaspoon Salt Sea salt recommended14 oz Sweetened Condensed Milk For creaminess2 large Eggs Additional bindingFor the Brûlée Topping0.5 cup Granulated Sugar Avoid brown sugar for better caramelizationFor the Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream0.5 cup Heavy Cream Coconut cream as a dairy-free option2 teaspoons Confectioners' Sugar Can substitute with maple syrup0.5 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste Or pure vanilla extract0.5 teaspoon Bourbon Omit for non-alcoholicNutmeg For garnishOrange Zest For garnishMint Leaves For garnish Equipment 9-inch pie plateMixing bowlelectric mixercookie cutterskitchen torch Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPrepare the Pie Dough: Roll out a circle of pie dough into a 9-inch pie plate, allowing edges to hang over. Freeze for 15 minutes.Prep the Decor: Cut shapes from the second dough circle, brush with an egg wash, and arrange around the pie crust.Make Filling: Whisk pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, orange zest, and salt until smooth. Microwave for 1 minute, then mix in sweetened condensed milk and eggs.Bake the Pie: Pour filling into crust, bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, reduce to 350°F and bake for another 35-40 minutes. Chill for at least 2 hours.Prepare Brûlée Top: Spread granulated sugar in a layer and bake at 400°F for 6-8 minutes until golden. Process into fine shards.Whip Cream: Whip heavy cream, then fold in confectioners' sugar, vanilla bean paste, and bourbon until soft peaks form.Caramelize Sugar: Before serving, sprinkle caramel shards over the top and caramelize using a torch or broiler.Serve: Slice the pie and top with bourbon vanilla whipped cream, grated nutmeg, and orange zest before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 3500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesAllow the pie to fully chill before adding the brûlée topping for the best texture contrast. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
