Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that truly captures the essence of fall, then you have to try Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe. This pie is not just any dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate! With its creamy pumpkin filling, luscious caramel, and crunchy streusel topping, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your friends during the holiday season!

I love this recipe because it combines rich flavors with a delightful texture. Each bite is an explosion of sweetness and warmth, making it a favorite in our household. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or just want to treat yourself after a long week, this pie is sure to become a cherished addition to your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible flavor: This pie brings together spiced pumpkin and sweet caramel in a way that’s simply divine.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this dessert—it’s great for gatherings!
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare many components ahead of time, making entertaining stress-free.
• Fun to make: Get creative in the kitchen with each layer from the crust to the whipped cream.
• Showstopper presentation: The layers of beautiful ingredients make for an impressive centerpiece at any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own delicious Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie:

For the Pumpkin 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 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 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 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas if you want to switch things up:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
• Switch chocolates: Use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate for a richer taste.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream in both the filling and whipped topping.

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

Step 1: Make the Crust

Start by preparing your crust since it needs some time to chill. In a large bowl, mix together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Add ice water and vinegar until just combined. Chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is important because chilling helps create a flaky crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, melt white chocolate with heavy cream over low heat until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mix well until fully incorporated. The combination creates a creamy filling that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your chilled dough and fit it into your pie dish. Bake for about 20 minutes until lightly golden. A well-baked crust provides the perfect base for all those delicious layers.

Step 4: Make the Salted Caramel

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water until dissolved. Let it cook without stirring until it turns golden brown. Remove from heat and carefully add butter and cream while whisking vigorously; add salt afterward. This salty-sweet topping adds depth that complements the pumpkin beautifully!

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

Pour half of your pumpkin filling into the baked crust followed by drizzling salted caramel on top. Pour remaining filling over that layer before baking again until set. Baking allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together!

Step 6: Prepare Whipped Cream & Serve

Once cooled, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Top each slice generously! The lightness of whipped cream balances out all those rich flavors perfectly.

And there you have it—your very own Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe! Enjoy this comforting treat with family and friends; I promise they’ll be back asking for seconds!

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

You’re going to love how this pie turns out with just a few extra tips to elevate your baking game!

• Use high-quality white chocolate – The white chocolate is a key component of the filling, and using a premium brand will give you that creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes this pie so irresistible.

• Chill your ingredients – Keeping your butter and cream cold helps create a flakier pie crust. This is especially important when you’re mixing in the ice water to ensure everything comes together nicely.

• Taste as you go – When making the salted caramel, feel free to adjust the salt to your liking. A little more salt can bring out the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the pie.

• Let it cool completely – Allowing your pie to cool thoroughly before slicing helps set the filling and makes for cleaner slices. No one wants a messy piece of pie!

• Make ahead – This pie can be made a day in advance! It actually tastes better after sitting overnight in the fridge, allowing all those flavors to meld together beautifully.

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

This delightful pumpkin caramel pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday feast. Here are some fun ways to serve it up!

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream – A dollop of sweetened whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the dense filling perfectly.
• Caramel Drizzle – Drizzle extra salted caramel over each slice just before serving for added sweetness and visual appeal.
• Toasted Pecans – Sprinkle some toasted pecans on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with the pumpkin.

Side Dishes

• Cinnamon-Spiced Roasted Apples – These warm apples bring a lovely contrast in texture and flavor, enhancing the fall vibes of your meal.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds an indulgent creaminess that balances the richness of the pie.
• Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts – These savory sprouts provide a delightful contrast with their slight bitterness and savory notes, making them a great companion for sweet desserts.
• Fresh Green Salad with Apples and Goat Cheese – A refreshing salad with crisp apples, tangy goat cheese, and a light vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the pie while adding brightness to your meal.

Now you’re all set to impress your friends and family with this comforting dessert! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for entertaining or celebrating special occasions. You can prepare it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while easing your workload on the day of serving.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Always cover any exposed pie slices with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds or until warm, but this may alter the texture of the crust.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop into your mind while preparing this delightful dessert.

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

While white chocolate is traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with dark chocolate or even milk chocolate for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall taste.

How long does it take to make Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe?

The entire process takes about 60 minutes of prep time and 50 minutes of cooking time, so set aside around 2 hours to create this delicious pie from start to finish.

Can I make the streusel topping ahead of time?

Absolutely! The streusel topping can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container. Just sprinkle it over the pie before baking for a crisp finish.

What if I don’t have corn syrup?

If you don’t have corn syrup on hand, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor of your caramel.

Is there a non-dairy option for heavy cream?

Yes! For a non-dairy alternative, you can use coconut cream or any plant-based heavy cream substitute available at your local grocery store. This will still yield a creamy filling!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie as I do! This recipe brings together comforting flavors that embody warmth and celebration. Whether it’s a festive gathering or just a cozy night at home, this pie is sure to impress. Enjoy every slice and don’t forget to share the delight with loved ones. Happy baking!