Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve come to the right place with Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe. This pie is more than just a treat; it’s a delightful blend of creamy pumpkin, luscious caramel, and a touch of spice that brings cozy vibes to any gathering. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family celebration, this pie never fails to impress!

What makes this recipe truly special is how it combines rich flavors with accessible ingredients. The layers of white chocolate ganache and fresh whipped cream make every bite feel indulgent yet comforting. It’s not just another pumpkin pie; it’s a showstopper that will leave your guests raving!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly delicious: The combination of pumpkin and caramel creates an unforgettable flavor profile that everyone will adore.
• Easily customizable: This recipe allows for personal touches, so you can make it your own!
• Perfect for all occasions: From holiday dinners to casual get-togethers, this pie fits right in.
• Make ahead of time: Prepare it in advance so you can spend more time enjoying your company.
• Family-friendly fun: Get the kids involved in making the streusel topping or whipping the cream!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is easy with these simple, wholesome ingredients. You might already have some of them in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling

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

For the 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 of salt to taste)
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract

For the Crust

• 1 1/2 cups Flour
• 12 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
• 1/2 cup Fine Ground Cornmeal
• 1 heaping Tablespoon White Sugar
• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to adapt based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add some crunch: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Spice it up: Experiment with spices by adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free butter alternatives.
• Chocolate lovers unite: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top before serving for a rich twist.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by combining flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water and vinegar until the dough comes together. Chill this mixture; resting helps develop flavor and makes rolling easier.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Roll out your chilled dough and fit it into a pie pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake until golden brown. This step is crucial because a well-baked crust provides structure for all those delicious layers we’re about to add.

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Filling

In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, corn syrup, butter, and white chocolate over low heat until melted and smooth. Stir in pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Allow this mix to cool slightly; we want it thick but not too hot when we pour it into our crust.

Step 4: Create the Caramel Sauce

In another saucepan, cook sugar over medium heat until it melts into a beautiful amber color. Carefully stir in heavy cream and butter—watch out for splatters! Add water, corn syrup, salt, and vanilla extract. Allow this caramel sauce to cool slightly before drizzling over your pumpkin filling.

Step 5: Prepare Streusel Topping

Mix flour, brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, cardamom, butter, and salt into crumbly bits. Spread this streusel over your pie generously—it adds an irresistible crunch!

Step 6: Bake Your Masterpiece

Bake your assembled pie until everything is set and bubbly. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be pure bliss! Let it cool before serving.

Step 7: Serve with Whipped Cream

Whip together heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Top each slice of pie with this sweet cloud of goodness—because who doesn’t love whipped cream?

And there you have it—Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe! Enjoy every delightful bite with friends and family!

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

Making this delightful pie can be a rewarding experience, and with a few handy tips, you’ll elevate your baking game!

• Use high-quality white chocolate: Selecting premium chocolate ensures a smooth, rich filling that enhances the overall flavor of your pie.

• Chill the crust: After preparing your pie crust, letting it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps prevent shrinking during baking and results in a perfectly flaky texture.

• Taste your caramel: When making the salted caramel, taste as you go! Adjust the salt to your preference to achieve the perfect balance of sweet and salty.

• Whip cream just right: For the freshest whipped cream topping, whip it until soft peaks form. This will keep your cream light and fluffy without becoming too dense or runny.

• Let it cool completely: Allowing the pie to cool thoroughly before serving lets the layers set properly, ensuring each slice holds its shape beautifully.

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

This pie is not only delicious but also visually stunning! When presenting your masterpiece, consider how various elements can enhance both appearance and taste.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the spiced pumpkin filling.
• Toasted Pecans: Sprinkle some toasted pecans on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor that complements the caramel beautifully.
• Cinnamon Dusting: Lightly dusting with cinnamon adds a warm spice aroma that invites guests to dig in.

Side Dishes

• Apple Crisp: This warm dessert offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that pairs well with the creamy pumpkin pie.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts over the warm pie, creating a heavenly dessert experience that’s hard to resist.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the pie, providing a refreshing contrast on your plate.
• Spiced Gingerbread Cookies: These cookies add a festive touch and their spiciness harmonizes wonderfully with pumpkin flavors.

Now you’re all set to impress friends and family with this show-stopping dessert. Enjoy every bite of Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delightful flavors at your convenience. You can prepare various components in advance, making it easier to pull together a fabulous dessert for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Storing Leftovers

• Store pie leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Enjoy the pie within 3 days for best flavor and freshness.
• If the whipped cream has been added, consume it within 1-2 days.

Freezing

• Slice the pie into individual portions before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The pie can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw slices overnight in the fridge before serving.
• For a warm treat, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
• If reheating from frozen, allow extra time and check until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions people have about this delicious recipe!

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

While white chocolate gives that signature creamy sweetness, you could experiment with dairy-free alternatives. Just ensure they melt well and blend smoothly into the ganache.

How should I serve Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe?

This pie is best served chilled with a dollop of fresh sweetened whipped cream on top. A sprinkle of cinnamon or additional caramel drizzle can elevate its appearance and flavor!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the crust and filling a day ahead. Just assemble before serving to keep everything fresh and delightful.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream alternative, which will maintain that rich texture without using dairy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating this Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you’re celebrating with friends or treating yourself after a long day, this pie is sure to impress. Happy baking!