Carnivore Pumpkin Spice Custard: The Instant Pot Treat That’ll Make You Forget Pumpkin Spice Lattes Exist

Picture this… you’re deep into your carnivore diet journey, missing those cozy autumn flavors, and then BOOM—someone hands you a spoon and says “try this custard.” 🎃 That’s exactly how I stumbled onto this Carnivore Pumpkin Spice Custard recipe, and honestly? It’s become one of my go-to treats when the leaves start turning and I’m craving something warm and spiced without derailing my zero carb lifestyle.

This isn’t your grandmother’s pumpkin pie (no offense to grandmothers everywhere). We’re talking six eggs, a splash of pumpkin puree, and just enough pumpkin pie spice to make your kitchen smell like autumn decided to move in permanently. IMO, this recipe proves that the carnivore diet doesn’t mean sacrificing seasonal flavors—you just get creative with your Instant Pot instead of your flour bin.

Whether you’re following a strict animal diet, dabbling in 80/20 carnivore, or just exploring the primal diet for the first time, this custard fits right in. It works beautifully as a breakfast, snack, or dessert—flexible little thing, isn’t it?

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Quick Stats: What You’re Signing Up For

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-30 minutes (varies by bowl size—more on that shortly)
• Servings: 4-6
• Calories: ~900 total (before pumpkin), roughly 150-225 per serving
• Macros: High fat, ~36g protein per batch
• Difficulty: Easy (seriously, if I can nail this, anyone can)

Equipment Needed: Nothing Fancy, I Promise

You don’t need a Michelin-star kitchen setup for this one. Here’s what actually matters:

• Instant Pot with a trivet (that metal rack thingy)—no Instant Pot? A regular pressure cooker works too
• Heat-safe bowl that fits comfortably inside your pot
• Aluminum foil to cover said bowl (trust me, don’t skip this step—I learned the hard way 🙄)
• Whisk for mixing everything together
• Measuring cup to figure out your egg-to-liquid ratio

Got all that? Great, let’s make some magic happen.

Ingredients: The Simple Stuff That Makes This Work

Eggs & Dairy

• 6 large eggs 🥚
• Equal amount of liquid (roughly 1 to 1¼ cups total), split:
• Half heavy cream
• Half water OR half bone broth (for extra protein and richness)

Pumpkin & Spice

• 2-3 tbsp pumpkin puree 🎃
• ½-1 tsp pumpkin pie spice blend (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, clove)
• Pinch of salt

Optional Add-Ins

• Splash of vanilla extract
• Whipped cream for topping (because why not?)

That’s it. No flour, no sugar, no complicated pantry raid required.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Make This Happen

Step 1: Measure Your Eggs

Crack all six eggs into a measuring cup first. This tells you exactly how much liquid you’ll need—usually somewhere between 1 and 1¼ cups.

Ever notice how recipes assume everyone’s eggs are identical? They’re not, so this step keeps things accurate.

Step 2: Match Your Liquid

Whatever volume your eggs filled, match it with equal parts liquid. Go half cream, half water for a lighter version, or half cream, half bone broth if you want extra protein and richness.

Step 3: Whisk Everything Together

Combine your eggs, liquid, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla (if using) in a bowl. Whisk until completely smooth—no eggy streaks allowed.

This mixture should look like a pale orange dream. If it does, you’re on track.

Step 4: Prep Your Instant Pot

Pour a small amount of water into the bottom of your Instant Pot. Place your trivet inside—this keeps your custard bowl elevated and away from direct water contact.

Step 5: Pour and Cover

Pour your egg mixture into your heat-safe bowl. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil—and I mean tightly, because steam has a sneaky way of finding gaps.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Place your covered bowl on the trivet inside the Instant Pot. Set it to pressure cook on low for 12 minutes.

Step 7: Quick Release

Once the timer’s up, do a quick manual release. Carefully remove the bowl (use a towel or hot pad—burnt fingers aren’t cute).

Step 8: Check for Doneness

Here’s where things get personal. If your custard still looks too jiggly for your taste, cover it again and cook for a few more minutes.

A Quick Note on Timing:

Cook time depends heavily on your bowl’s size and depth. There’s no universal “correct” time here—it’s more art than science.

• A 5.5-inch bowl typically needs about 26 minutes total to set firmly
• An 8-inch bowl often only needs around 20 minutes

Once you find what works for your specific bowl, stick with it religiously. Consistency is your friend here.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Top with whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy, or eat it straight from the bowl (no judgment here). 🥄

Batch Cooking Tip:

Want to meal prep this? Double or triple the recipe, but cook in smaller individual bowls or ramekins for faster, more even cooking. This also solves the whole “figuring out timing for one giant bowl” headache.

Serving & Presentation: Making It Instagram-Worthy

This custard looks gorgeous served in individual ramekins with a dollop of whipped cream and a light dusting of extra pumpkin pie spice on top. Simple, elegant, and it photographs beautifully for your Pinterest board.

Want to level up presentation? Layer it in a clear glass to show off that creamy texture, or serve alongside Carnivore Pumpkin Spice Cookies for a full autumn spread.

Occasion Recommendations:

This works perfectly for:

• Thanksgiving dessert tables
• Cozy fall breakfasts
• Anytime you need a warming treat that won’t spike blood sugar

Flavor Enhancers:

A sprinkle of cinnamon, a touch of sea salt, or even a small drizzle of Carnivore Caramel Sauce can take this from “nice” to “wow, can I have the recipe?”

How to Store This Delicious Creation

Refrigeration:

Store leftover custard in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Glass containers work best since they don’t retain odors or absorb flavors.

Reheating:

Honestly? This custard tastes great cold straight from the fridge. If you prefer it warm, gently reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds—any longer and you risk overcooking the eggs.

On-the-Go Option:

Portion into small mason jars for grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks throughout the week. Perfect for meal prep Sunday, if that’s your thing.

Why This Recipe Actually Works

This custard nails that sweet spot between nutrient-dense and genuinely satisfying. Let’s break down why it deserves a spot in your recipe rotation.

Protein Power:

With 36 grams of protein per batch, this treat supports muscle maintenance and keeps you feeling fuller longer than your average dessert. Ever notice how sugar-laden treats leave you hungry an hour later? This doesn’t do that.

High-Fat Satisfaction:

The cream provides healthy fats that fuel your body efficiently, especially if you’re following a high-fat carnivore approach or the classic 80/20 rule. Fat keeps you satiated—simple as that.

Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor:

Six ingredients (plus optional extras) create something that tastes indulgent without the carb crash. This aligns perfectly with the caveman diet philosophy—eat what our ancestors could recognize.

Customizable Macros:

Want lower fat? Swap more cream for water or bone broth. Want higher protein? Lean into that bone broth option—it’s a genuinely smart move for anyone tracking macros closely.

Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free, Grain-Free:

No flour, no sugar, no grains—just clean, whole food ingredients that support an ancestral diet approach. If you’re tired of hidden carbs sneaking into “healthy” desserts, this recipe eliminates that guesswork entirely.

This little custard proves that a meat diet or all-meal diet doesn’t mean boring or restrictive—it means getting creative with what actually nourishes your body.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (Learn From My Fails)

Mistake #1: Skipping the Foil Cover

I learned this one live and in real time. Skip the foil, and you’ll end up with unevenly cooked custard—cooked on top, raw on the bottom. 🙈 Cover it every single time.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Your Bowl Size

Using someone else’s exact timing without considering your bowl’s dimensions leads to disappointment. A shallow, wide bowl cooks faster than a deep, narrow one—physics, not magic.

Mistake #3: Overcooking for “Safety”

Some folks cook this way past the recommended time because they’re nervous about undercooked eggs. This isn’t raw cookie dough—pressure cooking thoroughly cooks the eggs, so trust the process and your preferred texture level.

Mistake #4: Forgetting to Whisk Thoroughly

Lumpy, uneven custard usually means someone rushed the whisking stage. Take an extra 30 seconds to ensure everything’s fully incorporated—it matters more than you’d think.

Mistake #5: Not Adjusting for Strict Carnivore

If you’re following zero carb carnivore strictly, remember that pumpkin puree adds small amounts of carbs. Adjust the quantity based on your personal tolerance and goals.

Alternatives & Substitutions: Making It Your Own

Budget-Friendly Swap:

Skip the heavy cream entirely and use all water or broth if you’re watching your grocery budget. You’ll lose some richness, but you’ll still get that satisfying custard texture.

Higher Protein Version:

Use bone broth instead of water for your liquid portion. This bumps up your protein content significantly while adding subtle savory depth that pairs surprisingly well with the spices.

Dairy-Free Adjustment:

Replace the cream entirely with additional bone broth or even coconut cream if you’re not strictly carnivore but still avoiding dairy. This changes the flavor profile slightly but keeps the custard concept intact.

Sweetness Boost:

If you want a touch more sweetness without adding sugar, a few drops of monk fruit extract can work—though this technically steps outside strict carnivore territory into keto-carnivore hybrid approaches.

Texture Preferences:

Want it firmer, more like a flan? Cook longer until fully set throughout. Prefer it jiggly and creamy? Pull it slightly earlier for that soft-set custard texture.

Similar creamy treats worth exploring include Carnivore Panna Cotta and Carnivore Crème Brûlée if you’re looking to expand your custard repertoire.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this without an Instant Pot?

A: Yes! You can bake this in a water bath in your oven at 325°F for approximately 45-60 minutes, checking periodically for your preferred doneness.

Q: Why did my custard come out watery on top?

A: This usually means you didn’t cover the bowl with foil, or your pressure release happened too quickly, causing condensation issues.

Q: Is pumpkin puree technically carnivore?

A: Strictly speaking, no—pumpkin is a plant food. Many following carnivore diet principles include small amounts of low-carb vegetables or fruits as part of a flexible 80/20 approach.

Q: Can I double this recipe?

A: Absolutely, but cook in multiple smaller bowls rather than one giant bowl to maintain even cooking throughout.

Q: How do I know when it’s actually done?

A: The custard should have a slight jiggle in the center but not appear liquid. If you prefer firmer texture, cook a few extra minutes until that jiggle disappears almost entirely.

Q: Can I use canned pumpkin or does it need to be fresh?

A: Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is honestly more convenient than roasting fresh pumpkin yourself.

Final Thoughts: Autumn Comfort, Carnivore Style

This Carnivore Pumpkin Spice Custard proves that you don’t need grains, sugar, or complicated techniques to capture those cozy fall flavors everyone gets excited about. Just eggs, cream, pumpkin, and spice—simple ingredients creating something genuinely satisfying.

Whether you’re deep into strict zero carb living or exploring a more flexible primal diet approach, this custard fits seamlessly into your routine. It’s proof positive that the proper human diet doesn’t mean boring or restrictive—it means getting resourceful with real food.

Give this a try, adjust it to your bowl size and texture preferences, and don’t be afraid to experiment a little (that’s half the fun, isn’t it?) 🎃🥄 For more inspiration, check out our complete guide to Carnivore Diet Recipes for everything from breakfast to dessert.

Next Recipes To Try

Loved this custard? Keep the momentum going with these complementary picks:

• Carnivore Pumpkin Pie Custard
• Carnivore Baked Custard
• Carnivore Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake
• Carnivore Mini Custard Cakes

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carnivore pumpkin spice custard

Yield: 4-6 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Additional Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

A creamy, spiced Instant Pot custard made with eggs, cream, and pumpkin puree—perfect for carnivore diet followers craving autumn flavors without the carbs. High in protein and healthy fats, this simple recipe delivers cozy fall comfort in every spoonful.

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Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• 1 to 1¼ cups liquid, split half heavy cream and half water (or half bone broth)
• 2-3 tbsp pumpkin puree
• ½-1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• Pinch of salt
• Splash of vanilla extract (optional)
• Whipped cream for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Measure Your Eggs: Crack 6 eggs into a measuring cup to determine total volume (typically 1 to 1¼ cups).
2. Match Your Liquid: Measure an equal amount of liquid, using half heavy cream and half water (or half bone broth for extra protein).
3. Whisk Together: Combine eggs, liquid, 2-3 tbsp pumpkin puree, ½-1 tsp pumpkin pie spice, a pinch of salt, and optional vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Prep Instant Pot: Pour a small amount of water into the bottom of your Instant Pot and place the trivet inside.
5. Pour and Cover: Pour the egg mixture into a heat-safe bowl and cover tightly with aluminum foil.
6. Pressure Cook: Place the covered bowl on the trivet and pressure cook on low for 12 minutes.
7. Quick Release: Perform a quick manual release once cooking completes.
8. Check Doneness: If custard isn't fully set to your preference, re-cover and cook a few additional minutes.
9. Serve: Top with whipped cream if desired and enjoy warm or chilled.

Notes

Cook time varies significantly based on bowl size and depth—there's no universal correct time. A 5.5-inch bowl typically takes about 26 minutes total; an 8-inch bowl often needs closer to 20 minutes. Once you find timing that works for your specific bowl, stick with that same bowl for consistent results. For a lower-fat version, increase water or broth and reduce cream. Pumpkin puree adds minor carbs, so adjust quantity if strict zero-carb carnivore is your goal.

Nutrition Information

Yield 6 Serving Size 1/6 of batch
Amount Per Serving Calories 150Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 6gCholesterol 165mgSodium 95mgCarbohydrates 2gNet Carbohydrates 2gFiber 0gSugar 1gProtein 6g