Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of five-spice?

Yes, but the flavor will be more traditional and less exotic. Five-spice gives a unique depth with star anise and cloves.

Do I need to roast the pumpkin puree?

It’s optional, but roasting enhances the caramelized pumpkin flavor and makes the ice cream richer.

25 September 2025

Jeni’s Pumpkin 5-Spice Ice Cream 🎃✨ (Warm & Spiced Fall Scoop)

Name: Jeni’s Pumpkin 5-Spice Ice Cream 🎃✨ (Warm & Spiced Fall Scoop)
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 480 ml Whole milk; 15 g Cornstarch (plus 1 tsp); 43 g Cream cheese, softened; 0.5 g Fine sea salt; 300 ml Heavy cream; 130 g Granulated sugar; 30 ml Light corn syrup; 200 g Pumpkin puree; 2 g Chinese five-spice powder; 5 ml Vanilla extract

JojoM adapted from Jeni Britton Bauer

A Cozy Fall-Inspired Treat 🎃✨

When autumn rolls around, nothing says comfort quite like pumpkin desserts. This Pumpkin 5-Spice Ice Cream takes the classic seasonal flavor to a whole new level by blending creamy pumpkin puree with the aromatic warmth of Chinese five-spice. Inspired by Jeni Britton Bauer’s famous eggless base, this scoop is silky, rich, and filled with cozy fall flavors.

Why Pumpkin + Five-Spice Works 🍂

While most fall recipes lean on pumpkin pie spice, using Chinese five-spice introduces a more exotic twist. With notes of star anise, cloves, cinnamon, fennel, and Sichuan peppercorns, the spice blend adds depth and intrigue that pairs beautifully with sweet pumpkin and creamy dairy. The result? A dessert that feels both familiar and surprising.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Ice Cream 🥄

Roast your pumpkin puree for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
Balance the spice—five-spice is potent, so adjust to taste.
Pair it smartly—gingersnaps, caramel sauce, or candied pecans make this ice cream even more indulgent.

How It’s Made 🧑‍🍳

Like Jeni’s other creations, this recipe skips eggs for a cream cheese–based custard that ensures body and richness without the fuss of tempering yolks. The mixture is boiled, thickened with cornstarch, then blended until smooth before churning into a dreamy frozen scoop.

Perfect for Fall Gatherings 🍁

Serve this ice cream at a Thanksgiving feast, alongside a slice of pecan pie, or as a stand-alone treat when the weather turns crisp. Its cozy flavors make it a standout fall dessert that will impress friends and family.

Final Scoop ✨

If you’re craving a seasonal twist on ice cream, this Pumpkin 5-Spice flavor brings comfort and warmth in every bite. Creamy, spiced, and utterly addictive, it’s a reminder that ice cream isn’t just for summer—it’s for all year round. 🍨

Prep Time

25 mins

Cook Time

20 mins

Total Time

45 mins

Servings

Tools Used

Medium Saucepan Whisk Mixing Bowls Ice Cream Maker

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Comments & Reviews

Sofia
9/8/2025
Loved this with gingersnaps on the side—it felt like fall in every bite.
Arjun
7/19/2025
Perfectly creamy with just the right warmth from the spices. A new fall favorite.
Emily
6/10/2025
The five-spice gives it such a unique twist—so much more interesting than regular pumpkin spice!

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Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1/2 cup (about 100 g)

Calories 240

% Daily Value*

Total Fat 13g17%

Saturated Fat 5g25%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 40mg13%

Sodium 75mg3%

Total Carbohydrates 29g11%

Dietary Fiber 1g4%

Sugars 25g

Protein 4g

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.