Pumpkin Pie Brûlée with Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream Recipe

If you are craving an extraordinary twist on a classic favorite, then you must try this Pumpkin Pie Brûlée with Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream. This dessert takes all the beloved flavors of traditional pumpkin pie and elevates them with a crispy brûlée topping that caramelizes beautifully, paired with a luscious, boozy whipped cream. Each bite is a cozy blend of warm spices, creamy pumpkin filling, and the silky, slightly crisp texture on top that makes it completely irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or simply want to treat yourself, this Pumpkin Pie Brûlée with Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels both fancy and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pumpkin Pie Brûlée with Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and perfect texture, from the flaky pie dough to the spiced pumpkin filling, the caramelized sugar topping, and the boozy vanilla whipped cream. Here’s everything you’ll want to gather before you start creating this masterpiece.

• Pie dough (2 circles): Store-bought or homemade, this forms the buttery, flaky base for your pie.
• Sugar (1/4 cup): Blended with cinnamon to sweeten and flavor the crust accents.
• Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and spice that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
• Egg (1): Used in the egg wash to create a beautiful golden shine and help leaf decorations stick.
• Water (1 tablespoon): Combined with egg for the perfect egg wash consistency.
• Pumpkin puree (15 ounces): The star of the filling, giving rich texture and authentic fall flavor.
• Pumpkin pie spice (1 tablespoon): A blend of cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger that enhances the pumpkin’s natural taste.
• Orange zest (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a fresh citrus note that brightens the filling.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and boosts overall flavor complexity.
• Sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces): Gives the filling creamy sweetness and a smooth texture.
• Eggs (2): Help set the filling and give it that custardy richness.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): For the brûlée topping that will caramelize into a crisp, crackly shell.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup): The base for the bourbon vanilla whipped cream, rich and silky.
• Confectioners’ sugar (2 teaspoons): Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream.
• Vanilla bean paste (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the cream with fragrant vanilla flavor.
• Bourbon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a subtle boozy kick to the whipped cream.
• Fresh grated nutmeg, orange zest, and mint leaves: Perfect finishing touches for garnish, adding aroma and color.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Brûlée with Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust and Decorative Leaves

Start by mixing the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl—this will be your sweet spice blend for the crust accents. Whisk the egg with water to create an egg wash and set it aside. Press one pie dough circle into your pie plate, gently molding it into the corners, and flute the edges for that charming homemade look. Then, using decorative leaf cutters, cut out about 35 leaf shapes from the second dough circle. Brush these leaves with egg wash, sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture, then coat the backs with more egg wash to help them stick to the smashed edges of your crust. To keep the leaves looking three-dimensional when baked, carefully prop some up with small balls of aluminum foil, making sure the leaves hug the edges well to avoid drooping. Dock the crust’s bottom with a fork and freeze while preparing the filling to keep it taut and flaky during baking.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Filling

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, orange zest, and salt. Microwave this mixture for one minute—this step helps meld the flavors and soften any canned pumpkin taste. Allow it to cool before whisking in the sweetened condensed milk and two eggs until smooth and fully combined. This luscious filling will bring warm, spicy flavors and creamy texture to your pie.

Step 3: Bake the Pie

Pour the pumpkin filling into your prepared pie shell. Bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes to start setting the custard, then reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees and continue baking for an additional 35 to 40 minutes. You want the center slightly jiggly when you gently shake the pie—this means it will finish setting as it cools, giving you that silky custard texture. Keep an eye on your cinnamon-sugar leaves; if they start browning too much towards the end, shield them with foil to prevent burning.

Step 4: Chill the Pie

Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then transfer it to the fridge for a minimum of two hours to chill. This step is key because it helps the custard firm up and sets the stage for the delightful brûlée topping later.

Step 5: Prepare the Brûlée Topping

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Spread the granulated sugar evenly in a thin layer and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until it turns a light golden brown—just a shade or two lighter than your target color. Watch it closely after 12 minutes to avoid burning. Once cooled, break the caramel into shards and pulse in a food processor until finely ground. This homemade caramel sugar will create that perfect crisp brûlée layer on the pie.

Step 6: Make the Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream

Whip the heavy cream by hand or with a mixer until it just starts to thicken. Add confectioners’ sugar and continue whipping until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the vanilla bean paste and bourbon until fully incorporated, adding a dreamy depth of flavor and subtle boozy warmth. This whipped cream is the perfect partner to the rich pumpkin and caramelized sugar.

Step 7: Assemble and Finish

Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of the caramel sugar onto the chilled pie’s surface. Use a kitchen torch or place under a broiler to melt and caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp golden shell. If you choose the broiler, cover the crust edges with foil to prevent scorching. Keep the brûlée layer thin so your pie slices easily without cracking. Top each slice generously with a dollop of bourbon vanilla whipped cream, then sprinkle with fresh grated nutmeg, zest of orange, and a few mint leaves for brightness and charm.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Brûlée with Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream

Garnishes

Garnishing your Pumpkin Pie Brûlée with Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream is the final step where you can really make your dessert shine. Freshly grated nutmeg adds aromatic warmth that perfectly complements the pumpkin spices. Orange zest provides a bright, citrusy contrast that livens up each forkful. A small sprig of mint adds a lovely splash of green and a hint of freshness, balancing the richness of the pie and whipped cream beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dessert is a showstopper on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple, subtle sides. A small dish of spiced apple compote or pear slices complements the cinnamon and pumpkin notes without overwhelming. For drinks, a glass of warm spiced cider or a light cup of coffee enhances the cozy autumn vibe this pie creates. Keep sides light so the Pumpkin Pie Brûlée with Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream remains the centerpiece.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to unleash your inner food stylist, consider serving individual mini pumpkin pies with brûlée toppings and mini dollops of bourbon vanilla whipped cream. You could also plate the pie alongside a quenelle of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant presentation. Adding a few edible gold leaf flakes to the whipped cream brings a luxurious touch that’s sure to impress guests and make any celebration feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled, store any leftover Pumpkin Pie Brûlée with Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream covered in the refrigerator. Keep the brûlée topping intact as best as you can, but if it softens, you can easily re-torch or broil it briefly before serving again. The pie will keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining its texture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the pie, it’s best to do so before adding the brûlée topping or whipped cream. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and prepare the brûlée topping and whipped cream fresh for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, bring slices to room temperature and carefully warm slightly in a low-temperature oven if desired. Avoid heating too long or at too high of a temperature to protect the custard’s creamy texture. Reapply a thin layer of caramelized sugar topping with a kitchen torch for that signature crisp brûlée finish before serving again.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pie dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade pie dough works beautifully and adds an extra layer of buttery flavor. Just make sure it’s chilled well before shaping and baking.

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch for the brûlée topping?

No worries — you can use your oven’s broiler to caramelize the sugar. Just watch very closely to prevent burning and use foil to shield the crust edges.

Can I substitute bourbon in the whipped cream?

You can swap bourbon for brandy, rum, or vanilla extract if you prefer. Each adds its own lovely twist but bourbon gives that classic warmth and depth.

Is it okay to skip the brûlée topping?

Sure! The pie is still delicious without it, but the brûlée adds a wonderful crunchy contrast that makes this dessert so special.

How far in advance can I prepare this dessert?

You can prepare the pie and filling a day ahead and refrigerate. Add the brûlée topping and whipped cream right before serving for the freshest texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Pie Brûlée with Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream is truly a showstopper dessert that brings together cozy fall flavors and a delightful textural surprise with the brûlée topping. It’s warm, rich, and just the right amount of indulgent to make your celebrations or everyday treats feel extra special. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch your friends and family fall in love bite after bite. Happy baking and savor every moment!

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