Name: Pumpkin Custard Tart with Red-Wine Caramel Sauce
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 3 1/4 hr
Yield: Makes 8 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup whole almonds with skin (2 1/2 oz), toasted; 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; Pinch each of ground ginger, cardamom, cloves, white pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg; 3/4 stick (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 large egg; 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon mild molasses; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon each of ground cinnamon, mace, cloves, and freshly grated nutmeg; 1 3/4 cups canned solid-pack pumpkin (15 oz) or fresh pumpkin purée; 2/3 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons pine nuts; Accompaniment: red-wine caramel sauce; a 10- by 1-inch fluted round tart pan with removable bottom; pie weights or raw rice

We asked pastry chef Michael Laiskonis if we could compare two versions of the custard in his tart: one made with fresh pumpkin, the other made with canned, which he likes for its reliable consistency. When we tested the two tarts, we were surprised to find that we also preferred the custard made with canned pumpkin — but the choice is yours.

Cooks' note:

Dough and filling can be made 2 days ahead and chilled separately, covered.

Recipe notes

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

London Fog Brownies

Yes, brownies can—and should—be made with white chocolate.

Mascarpone Cheesecake

An extra-silky filling (no water bath needed!) and a smooth sour cream topping make this the ultimate cheesecake.

Crème Anglaise

The silky French vanilla sauce that goes with everything.

Classic French Bouillabaisse With Rouille

This flexible recipe is all you need to bring this iconic Provençal seafood stew to your table.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.