Active Time

　　25 min

　　Total Time

　　45 min

　　Though these delicately spiced soufflés reach toward the skies, they capture the fragrant earthiness of pumpkin. Best of all, this airy alternative to pumpkin pie leaves you satisfied, not stuffed.

　　

Ingredients

Makes 8 servings

　　1/2 cup whole milk

　　1 tablespoon cornstarch

　　1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg

　　1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

　　1/8 teaspoon ground allspice

　　Pinch of ground cloves

　　3/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, divided, plus additional for coating ramekins

　　3/4 cup canned pure pumpkin (from a 15-oz can, not pie filling)

　　10 large egg whites

　　1/4 teaspoon salt

　　Equipment: 8 (6-ounce) ramekins

　　Garnish: confectioners sugar

　　Accompaniments: bourbon molasses sauce ; unsweetened whipped cream

　　1 unsweetened whipped cream

　　

Step 1

Whisk together milk, cornstarch, spices, and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar in a small heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, whisking, then simmer, whisking, 2 minutes.

　　

Step 2

Remove from heat and whisk in pumpkin. Transfer to a large bowl and cool to room temperature.

　　

Step 3

Preheat oven to 400°F with rack in lower third. Butter ramekins and coat with granulated sugar, knocking out excess, then put in a large shallow baking pan.

　　

Step 4

Beat egg whites with salt in another large bowl using an electric mixer until they hold soft peaks. Add remaining 3/4 cup granulated sugar a little at a time, beating, then beat until whites hold stiff, glossy peaks, 1 to 2 minutes more.

　　

Step 5

Fold one third of whites into cooled pumpkin mixture to lighten, then fold in remaining whites gently but thoroughly. Divide mixture among ramekins, mounding it.

　　

Step 6

Bake soufflés until puffed and golden, 18 to 20 minutes. Dust with confectioners sugar and serve immediately.

　　Cooks’ notes:

　　•Pumpkin mixture (without egg whites) can be made 1 day ahead and chilled.

　　•Soufflés can be assembled 1 hour before baking and kept in freezer.

　　•Baked soufflés can be repuffed if necessary in a 400°F oven 10 to 12 minutes (serve quickly, as they will deflate a little faster the second time around).