Step 1

Preheat oven to 325 degrees, with rack in the center. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, milk, syrup, and pumpkin. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together yolks, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 2

Whisking constantly, gradually add hot cream mixture to the yolk mixture. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a large liquid measuring cup (for easy pouring).

Step 3

Divide mixture evenly among six 6-ounce ramekins or custard cups. Line the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch baking pan with a kitchen towel; place ramekins on top.

Step 4

Place in oven, and pour enough boiling water in pan to come halfway up sides of cups. Cover pan tightly with foil. Bake until custard is set and a knife inserted in center comes out clean, 40 to 45 minutes. Let cool completely, then refrigerate, covered first with paper towel and then with plastic wrap, for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.