Description
This Decadent Creamy Pumpkin Flan with Spiced Caramel Drizzle captures the warm and comforting flavors of fall in a smooth, velvety custard. Featuring pure pumpkin puree blended with warm autumn spices and topped with a luscious spiced caramel sauce, this elegant yet simple dessert is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. The flan offers a rich creaminess balanced with gentle sweetness and aromatic spices, creating a truly memorable seasonal treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Spiced Caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
For the Pumpkin Custard:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (pure, not pie filling)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Prepare the Spiced Caramel: In a dry saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup water. Heat without stirring until the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color. Immediately remove from heat and whisk in 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves. Carefully pour the spiced caramel into flan molds or individual ramekins, tilting to evenly coat the bottom. Set aside to cool and harden.
- Make the Pumpkin Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup pumpkin puree, 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/8 teaspoon cloves until smooth. Avoid overbeating to prevent air bubbles, ensuring a luscious texture.
- Assemble and Bake the Flan: Gently pour the custard mixture over the cooled spiced caramel in the molds. Place the molds into a deep baking pan and add hot water halfway up the sides to create a water bath. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 50-60 minutes, until custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Chill and Serve: Remove molds from the water bath and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set and develop flavors. To serve, run a knife around the edges and invert onto plates, allowing the spiced caramel to drizzle over the creamy pumpkin custard.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth, even custard blend.
- Watch sugar closely when making caramel to avoid burning; patience enhances flavor depth.
- The water bath ensures gentle, even baking to prevent curdling or cracking.
- Do not overbake; a slight jiggle in the center is ideal as the flan firms up while chilling.
- Chilling overnight provides the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 165 mg
Keywords: pumpkin flan, spiced caramel, fall dessert, creamy pumpkin custard, autumn spices, gluten free dessert, seasonal sweets