Creamy Pumpkin Custard

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Creamy Pumpkin Custard is like the coziest hug in dessert form. Silky, lightly spiced, and gently sweetened, this treat turns a simple can of pumpkin into an elegant finale to your fall meals. Unlike traditional pumpkin pie, this custard skips the crust and lets the smooth, spiced filling shine all on its own.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just want a comforting dessert without the fuss, this recipe delivers. It bakes up perfectly in individual ramekins and is topped off beautifully with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon. The aroma alone will make your kitchen smell like autumn.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pumpkin Custard

This dessert is light, yet decadent enough to satisfy any sweet tooth. It’s an excellent make-ahead option, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to adjust for dairy-free diets, making it a crowd-pleaser across the board.

The texture is rich but not heavy, thanks to the balance between pumpkin puree and creamy dairy. It also holds its shape well while still melting in your mouth with every spoonful.

What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Use?

For best results, stick with pure pumpkin puree—not pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that can throw off the flavor balance. Canned pumpkin works wonderfully and is super convenient, but if you have homemade puree on hand, feel free to use that for a slightly fresher taste.

Ingredients for the Creamy Pumpkin Custard

To create a custard that is both luxuriously smooth and warmly spiced, you’ll need a mix of simple pantry staples and fall-inspired ingredients.

• Pumpkin puree
• Heavy cream
• Whole milk
• Eggs
• Brown sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Ginger
• Salt

Each of these ingredients plays a key role in building that luscious texture and deep flavor. The pumpkin puree gives it its signature richness. Heavy cream and milk create a smooth base. Eggs are essential for setting the custard. Brown sugar brings a deep molasses-like sweetness, while vanilla and spices give it that warm, cozy flavor.

How To Make the Creamy Pumpkin Custard

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F and bring a kettle of water to a boil. You’ll be using a water bath to help the custards bake gently and evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the spices and salt. Then, gradually whisk in the cream and milk until fully combined and silky.

Step 3: Fill the Ramekins

Place 6 ramekins in a deep baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly into each ramekin. Carefully pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the centers are just set with a slight jiggle. Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Pumpkin Custard

This creamy pumpkin custard is best served chilled and can be dressed up with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg. It makes a beautiful autumn dessert for any dinner party or cozy night in.

The recipe makes about 6 individual servings. Once cooled, you can store the ramekins covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They hold up beautifully and make an easy grab-and-go treat throughout the week.

What to Serve With Creamy Pumpkin Custard?

Whipped Cream

A soft, billowy cloud of whipped cream adds contrast to the dense custard.

Gingersnap Cookies

Crunchy, spiced cookies are the perfect dunking companion.

Candied Pecans

For a nutty crunch that balances the custard’s creaminess.

Caramel Sauce

Drizzle a little caramel on top for a richer, more indulgent twist.

Vanilla Ice Cream

The cold, sweet ice cream is perfect with the warm spices in the custard.

Coffee or Chai Tea

A cozy drink really completes the dessert moment.

Berries

Fresh raspberries or blackberries cut through the richness beautifully.

Want More Fall Dessert Ideas?

If you’re loving the warm, cozy flavors in this pumpkin custard, here are a few more sweet options to try:

• Southern Banana Cobbler is sweet, soft, and nostalgic.
• Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls add fruity tang to your dessert lineup.
• Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches are crispy, creamy fun.
• No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake for a chilled treat that doesn’t need the oven.
• Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies are quick, crunchy, and satisfyingly sweet.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you top it with whipped cream or go for something extra like candied pecans? Did you try a dairy-free version?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Creamy Pumpkin Custard captures everything we love about fall in each spoonful: warmth, spice, and rich comfort. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving or simply craving a cozy dessert, it’s an effortless way to make an impression. Try it once, and it might just become your new seasonal staple.

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