Spiced Pumpkin Creme Brulee With Ginger-Dusted Churros

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. In a saucepan, combine cream, milk, vanilla bean and spices and bring to a simmer.

2. Step 2

   In a separate bowl, whisk sugar into egg yolks until fully incorporated. Slowly whisk egg mixture into hot liquid until fully incorporated. Whisk in pumpkin puree.

3. Step 3

   Pour the mixture into ramekins or a brulee mold. Place the ramekins in a cake or baking pan, and add enough hot water to the pan to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake in water bath until custard is set, about 45 minutes.

4. Step 4

   Meanwhile, prepare the churros. Preheat oil in a fryer to 375 degrees. In a saucepan, combine water, milk, salt and sugar and bring to a boil. Whisk flour into the mixture in small batches until fully incorporated. Remove from heat and add the egg whites, mixing until the texture is completely smooth.

5. Step 5

   Using a pastry bag fitted with a churro tip, pipe the batter into the hot oil in 2-inch strips and fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towel, and roll hot churros in chopped candied ginger and granulated ginger.

6. Step 6

   To serve the brulee: Sprinkle top with granulated sugar and caramelize with a torch. Serve with churros.