Pumpkin Pie Brûlée with Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream

Elevate your holiday dessert table with this stunning Pumpkin Pie Brûlée, topped with shards of caramelized sugar and accompanied by a rich bourbon vanilla whipped cream. This decadent twist on a classic pumpkin pie will impress your guests with its perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and a delightful crunch. The added touch of bourbon and vanilla in the whipped cream adds depth and elegance, making this a standout dish for any celebration.

Ingredients:

Classic Pumpkin Pie:

• 1 package (2 circles) pie dough
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 eggs

Brûlée Topping:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons confectioners sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• 1/2 teaspoon bourbon

Garnish:

• Freshly grated nutmeg
• Orange zest
• Small mint leaves

Directions:

Prepare the Dough:

1. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon together and set aside.
2. In another bowl, whisk the egg and water to create an egg wash.
3. Roll out one circle of pie dough and press it gently into a pie plate. Flute the edges for a decorative look.
4. From the second circle of dough, cut out 35 leaf shapes using decorative cutters. Brush the leaves with the egg wash and sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar.
5. Attach the leaves to the edge of the pie crust, using egg wash on the backs of the leaves to help them adhere. To maintain their shape, use small balls of aluminum foil to support them during baking.
6. Dock the pie shell with a fork and freeze while preparing the filling.

Prepare the Filling:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, orange zest, and salt. Microwave the mixture for 1 minute to blend the flavors and reduce the canned taste.
3. Let the mixture cool slightly, then whisk in the sweetened condensed milk and eggs until the filling is smooth.
4. Pour the filling into the chilled pie shell and bake at 425°F for 15 minutes. Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35-40 minutes until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
5. Cool the pie for 20 minutes before refrigerating it for at least 2 hours.

Prepare the Brûlée Topping:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper.
2. Spread the sugar in a thin, even layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, watching closely after 12 minutes to avoid burning.
3. Remove the sugar when it reaches a shade lighter than desired. Allow it to cool completely before breaking it into shards and processing it in a food processor until fine.

Make the Whipped Cream:

1. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until it thickens slightly. Gradually add the confectioners sugar and continue whipping until soft peaks form.
2. Fold in the vanilla bean paste and bourbon gently until just combined.

Assemble the Pie:

1. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of the prepared caramelized sugar over the top of the chilled pumpkin pie.
2. Use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar until it becomes golden and crisp. If using a broiler, protect the edges of the pie crust with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
3. Top each slice with a dollop of bourbon vanilla whipped cream, a light sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg, orange zest, and a few small mint leaves.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling)
• Calories: 450 kcal per slice
• Servings: 8 servings

This Pumpkin Pie Brûlée with Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Cream will add an extra touch of sophistication to any holiday gathering. The balance of smooth pumpkin filling, crunchy caramelized sugar, and aromatic whipped cream makes this dessert truly unforgettable. Serve it with coffee or your favorite after-dinner drink for a perfect festive finish.

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