Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall, look no further than Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe. This pie is a delightful blend of spiced pumpkin and rich caramel, all nestled in a homemade crust. It’s not just a treat for the eyes; it’s a flavor explosion that brings joy to family gatherings and cozy dinners alike. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or simply indulging on a chilly evening, this pie is sure to impress everyone at your table.

What makes this recipe special is its approachable nature. You don’t need to be a master baker to pull it off! With its layers of creamy pumpkin ganache and decadent salted caramel, each bite is a hug in dessert form. Plus, it’s perfect for making ahead of time, leaving you with more moments to spend with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible flavors: The combination of spiced pumpkin and sweet caramel creates an unforgettable taste.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore every slice.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep it the day before your gathering for stress-free entertaining.
• Homemade goodness: Using simple ingredients means you know exactly what’s going into your dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this pie is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items you likely have or can easily find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you need to whip up this delicious treat:

For the Pumpkin Filling

• 2 (15-ounce) cans Pumpkin Puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 1/4 cups Heavy Cream
• 1/3 cup Corn Syrup (scant)
• 5 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 12 to 16 ounces White Chocolate (high-quality)
• 3 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt

For the Salted Caramel

• 1 cup White Sugar
• 1/3 cup Heavy Cream
• 6 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 1/4 cup Water
• 2 Tablespoons Corn Syrup
• 1 teaspoon Salt (up to 2 teaspoons to taste)
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract

For the Pie Crust

• 1 1/2 cups Flour
• 12 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 1/2 cup Fine Ground Cornmeal
• 1 Tablespoon White Sugar (heaping)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup Ice Cold Water
• 1 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar

For the Streusel Topping

• 1/2 cup Flour
• 1/3 cup Light Brown Sugar
• 1/3 cup Rolled Oats
• 6 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon Cardamom
• pinch of salt

For the Whipped Cream

• 2 cups Heavy Cream
• 3 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to play around with these variations based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch.
• Use dark chocolate: Swap white chocolate for dark chocolate if you’re craving something richer.
• Try different spices: Experiment with ginger or nutmeg in addition to pumpkin spice for added warmth.

How to Make Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by making your pie crust because it needs some time to chill. Combine flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Then cut in chilled butter until crumbly. Add ice water and vinegar until it forms a dough. Chill for at least 30 minutes — this step ensures your crust will be flaky and delicious!

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Roll out your chilled dough into a circle and fit it into your pie pan. Bake until golden brown — about 20 minutes at 350°F should do it. A well-baked crust provides a sturdy base for all those luscious fillings!

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Filling

In a saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream, corn syrup, butter, and white chocolate until melted and smooth. Stir in pumpkin puree, spices, and salt until fully blended. Pour this heavenly mixture into your baked crust.

Step 4: Prepare the Salted Caramel

For that decadent layer of salted caramel, melt sugar over medium heat without stirring until it turns amber-colored. Carefully whisk in heavy cream, butter, water, corn syrup, salt, and vanilla extract. Drizzle this warm caramel over the pumpkin filling.

Step 5: Create the Streusel Topping

Mix flour, brown sugar, oats, butter, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt until crumbly. Sprinkle generously over your pie before baking again until golden — about another 20 minutes.

Step 6: Whip Up Some Cream

Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This fluffy topping adds an extra layer of delight when served alongside each slice.

And there you have it! Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe is ready to steal the show at any gathering! Enjoy each bite while basking in compliments from friends and family alike!

Pro Tips for Making Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe

Baking this delightful pie is a rewarding experience, and with a few simple tips, you can ensure that it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Quality Ingredients: Investing in high-quality white chocolate and fresh pumpkin puree will significantly elevate the flavors of your pie. The better the ingredients, the richer and more decadent your dessert will taste.
• Chill Your Dough: After mixing your pie crust dough, be sure to chill it for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent shrinkage during baking and results in a flaky texture that complements the filling beautifully.
• Watch Your Caramel: When making the salted caramel, keep a close eye on it as it cooks. Caramel can go from perfect to burnt in just a minute, so stir frequently and remove it from heat as soon as it reaches a golden amber color.
• Layer with Care: When assembling your pie, layer the spiced pumpkin ganache and salted caramel carefully to create beautiful swirls. This not only looks gorgeous but also ensures that each slice has an equal mix of flavors.
• Serve Fresh Whipped Cream: Instead of store-bought whipped cream, take the extra step to make your own. Homemade whipped cream is lighter and fresher, enhancing every bite of your pie.

How to Serve Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe

Presenting this show-stopping pie can be just as fun as baking it! With its layers of flavor and texture, it’s perfect for any gathering or special occasion.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top adds both sweetness and visual appeal.
• Toasted Pecans: Chopped toasted pecans provide an irresistible crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

• Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage complements the fall flavors of the pie perfectly, providing a cozy drinking option alongside dessert.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter notes balance out the sweetness of the pie while adding a deliciously nutty flavor.
• Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet yet earthy, these carrots bring another layer of autumnal flavor that enhances your meal experience.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pie, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress friends and family with your very own Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious pie.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
• Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have leftover whipped cream, store it separately in an airtight container.

Freezing

• To freeze the pie, ensure it is fully cooled.
• Wrap the pie in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze without the whipped cream topping; add fresh whipped cream after thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe that might help you out!

Can I use a different type of chocolate in Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe?

While white chocolate gives this pie its signature flavor, you could experiment with other chocolates. However, keep in mind that it will change the overall taste and texture of the ganache.

How do I store leftovers from Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up!

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day or two in advance or even freeze it for later enjoyment!

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

You can use coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative. It will give a slightly different flavor but still maintains a rich texture.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, ensuring it’s suitable for baking. This will keep your crust deliciously intact while accommodating gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this pie is bound to impress. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with laughter and love!