Name: Indulge in Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie: Fall's Luxurious Treat
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 195 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.); 1/4 teaspoon salt (A pinch is sufficient.); 1 large egg (Use a large egg for best results.); 1 teaspoon white vinegar (Can substitute with lemon juice if desired.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Ensure butter is very cold for best texture.); 1 can pure canned pumpkin (Avoid pumpkin pie filling for better control over spices.); 1/2 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative.); 1/2 cup bourbon (Consider using bourbon extracts for non-alcoholic option.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Homemade extract can enhance flavor.); 1 teaspoon ground spices (Adjust to personal spice preferences.); 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (Honey or agave can serve as alternatives.); 1/2 cup heavy cream (For a lighter version, use half-and-half.)

As the cool autumn air sweeps in, it stirs up a craving for something truly special. Enter my Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie—a delightful amalgamation of traditional pumpkin pie with a sophisticated adult twist. This indulgent dessert boasts a creamy pumpkin filling laced with smooth bourbon, all nestled in a flaky crust that’s just begging to be devoured. What makes this pie stand out is not only the cozy fall spices but also the crispy brûléed topping that adds a fun texture contrast, making it the ideal centerpiece for holiday gatherings or an evening spent with loved ones. Plus, it’s a make-ahead dream, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests. Curious about how to create this fall favorite in your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why Choose Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie?

Gourmet Twist: This recipe elevates traditional pumpkin pie with the rich essence of bourbon, creating a truly unique flavor profile.

Textural Delight: The combination of a flaky crust, creamy filling, and crispy brûléed sugar topping offers a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress.

Perfect for Celebrations: Ideal for Thanksgiving or cozy dinner parties, this pie is a showstopper that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Easy Make-Ahead: Prep the crust and filling a day in advance, making your dessert stress-free and allowing you to savor the moment, just like with my Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie or Boston Cream Pie.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: With cozy spices and that indulgent bourbon kick, it’s a dish that caters to both classic dessert lovers and those seeking something a little more sophisticated.

Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie Ingredients

Prepare to create a stunning Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie with these essential ingredients!

For the Crust

All-purpose flour – Forms the base of the crust, providing a tender and flaky texture. Note: Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the crust and creates the brûlée topping. Substitution: Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors in the pie. A pinch is sufficient.
Egg – Binds the crust and adds richness. Use a large egg for best results.
White vinegar – Contributes tenderness to the crust. Can substitute with lemon juice if desired.
Unsalted butter – Key for a flaky crust; must be cold and cubed. Ensure butter is very cold for best texture.

For the Filling

Pure canned pumpkin – Provides the base for the filling—avoid pumpkin pie filling for better control over spices. Fresh pumpkin can be used, but it might require straining for moisture.
Sour cream – Adds creaminess and tang to the filling. Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative.
Bourbon – Infuses the filling with warmth and depth. For a non-alcoholic option, consider using bourbon extracts.
Vanilla extract – Adds aromatic sweetness; essential for depth of flavor. Homemade extract can enhance flavor more.
Ground spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, and allspice) – Create the signature pumpkin pie taste. Adjust to personal spice preferences.
Pure maple syrup – Sweetens naturally while enhancing flavor complexity. Honey or agave can serve as alternatives.
Heavy cream – Ensures a rich and smooth filling. For a lighter version, use half-and-half.

Now that you have all the ingredients lined up, you’re just a step away from making a masterpiece of a Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a food processor, pulse together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, vinegar, and a tablespoon of cold water. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture and pulse until coarse crumbs form; then gradually mix in the egg mixture until a dough begins to form. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to ensure a flaky texture.

Step 2: Bake the Crust
After chilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle, then transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate, crimping the edges for a decorative touch. To prevent the crust from shrinking, cover it with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the paper, brush the crust with egg white, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling
Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, canned pumpkin, sour cream, bourbon, vanilla extract, and spices until smooth. In a small saucepan, heat the maple syrup over low heat until slightly thickened and then blend it with the heavy cream before adding to the pumpkin mixture. This thickening ensures a rich Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie filling.

Step 4: Bake the Pie
Pour the filling mixture into the pre-baked crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes. The pie is done when the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly; it will firm up upon cooling. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 1 hour at room temperature before refrigerating, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Cool & Brûlée Topping
After the pie has completely cooled, refrigerate it overnight for the best flavor and texture. When ready to serve, sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the top. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it forms a bubbly, golden crust, or place it under the broiler for a few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Your Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie is now ready to impress!

Make Ahead Options

These Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and storing it in the refrigerator to maintain its flaky texture. The filling can also be prepped up to 3 days ahead; simply combine the ingredients, cover, and keep it chilled until you’re ready to fill the pie. When it’s time to bake, pour the prepared filling into the crust and follow the baking instructions. Finally, let the pie cool, refrigerate overnight, and crème brûlée the topping just before serving for a dessert that is just as delicious as if made fresh that day!

How to Store and Freeze Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie

Fridge: Store leftover pie in the fridge, tightly wrapped with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. Best enjoyed within 3-4 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie before adding the brûlée topping. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Brûlée Topping: For the best texture, add the brûlée topping just before serving; otherwise, it may lose its crispness during storage.

Expert Tips for Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie

Chill the Dough: Ensure your dough is well-chilled before rolling it out to prevent shrinkage and create that desirable flaky texture.
Watch the Bake Time: Overbaking can lead to a dry filling. Aim for a slight jiggle in the center when removing the pie from the oven—the residual heat will set it as it cools.
Use a Torch: For the brûléed topping, a kitchen torch gives better control than a broiler, which can burn the sugar quickly.
Let it Rest: Refrigerating the pie overnight not only enhances the flavors but also helps it set properly—don’t skip this step!
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the filling to match your flavor preferences, making your Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie truly unique.

What to Serve with Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie

Creating the perfect meal is a delightful journey, especially when sweet treats are on the menu.

Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a luscious and creamy contrast to the pie’s rich filling.
Toasted Pecans: These crunchy morsels add a nutty flavor and texture that harmonizes beautifully with the warm spices in the pie.
Cinnamon-Spiced Coffee: A steaming cup of cinnamon-spiced coffee enhances the cozy, fall-inspired theme of this dessert and makes for a delightful pairing.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold nature of vanilla ice cream balances the warmth of the bourbon and spices, creating a classic combination.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce can elevate this dessert to new heights, offering added sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
Fall Fruit Salad: A light, fresh fruit salad featuring apples, pears, and pomegranate seeds adds brightness and balances the richness of the pie.
Spiced Tea: Serve with a cup of spiced chai tea for a comforting beverage that complements the flavors and provides a cozy ambiance.
Chocolate Bark: Accompany your pie with a few pieces of dark chocolate bark, adding a touch of indulgence that pairs nicely with the bourbon.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce contrasts beautifully with the pie’s sweetness, providing a refreshing palate cleanser.

Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie Variations

Feel free to add your own spin to this scrumptious pie, and make it uniquely yours!

Spice Swap:
Adjust the spice blend to suit your taste, perhaps adding a pinch of clove for warmth.
Bourbon Alternative:
Replace bourbon with whiskey for a subtle change in flavor. Both will still provide that inviting warmth.
Individual Tarts:
Use small tart pans for individual servings. Personal pies are not only adorable, but they also make for easy portion control!
Choco-Pumpkin Twist:
Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips into the filling for a delightful chocolate-bourbon fusion!
Nutty Variation:
Add ¼ cup of toasted pecans or walnuts to the filling, giving your pie an extra layer of crunch and nuttiness.
Coconut Cream:
Substitute sour cream with coconut cream for a rich, tropical touch that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Sugar Substitution:
Use maple sugar instead of granulated sugar for a more pronounced maple flavor, enhancing the pie’s natural sweetness.
Extra Layer:
Consider adding a layer of caramel beneath the filling for an indulgent surprise that will make your guests swoon.

Each variation provides an exciting chance to explore flavors and textures that can make your Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie even more extraordinary! You might also enjoy the comforting flavors found in my Pumpkin Overnight Oats or the sweet richness of Salted Honey Pie. Happy baking!

Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin is best for the filling?
Absolutely, using pure canned pumpkin is ideal for this recipe as it is specifically prepared for pies and offers the perfect consistency. If you prefer fresh pumpkin, choose a sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin; however, ensure you strain it well to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the pie’s texture.

How should I store leftover Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie?
Store any leftover pie in the fridge, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days to maintain its delightful flavors. If you’re not going to finish it right away, I recommend freezing the pie (without the brûlée topping) for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the cooled pie securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for added protection against freezer burn. It’s best to freeze it before adding the brûlée topping; when you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then add the sugar topping before serving for that delightful crunch.

What can I do if the pie is too watery after baking?
If you notice a watery filling, it might be due to excess moisture in the pumpkin or overmixing. To avoid this in future pies, ensure you strain fresh pumpkin properly. If your filling is already baked, you can place the pie back in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) for about 15 minutes to help it firm up. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overbake!

Can this dessert be made gluten-free?
Certainly! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum, which helps mimic the texture of traditional flour. Just remember to check all other ingredients for gluten content, especially the bourbon and toppings.

Is there a way to make Bourbon Brûlée Pumpkin Pie less sweet?
Very! If you prefer a less sweet pie, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and brûlée topping by about 20-30%. You may want to adjust the spices slightly to balance the flavors, making sure your pie is still rich and satisfying without being overly sweet. Enjoy experimenting!