Making the Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe is a delightful experience that brings together the flavors of fall and the joy of dessert. This unique pie combines a rich spiced pumpkin white chocolate ganache with salted caramel, all nestled in a homemade crust. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or just indulging on a cozy evening, this pie is sure to impress. Its standout qualities include a luscious filling, crispy streusel topping, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, white chocolate, and caramel creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love.
- Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a special treat at home.
- Unique Textures: Enjoy the contrast between the creamy filling and the crunchy streusel topping.
- Impressive Presentation: This pie looks stunning on any dessert table, making it a showstopper.
- Fun to Make: The process of creating this pie is enjoyable and satisfying, perfect for bakers of all levels.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious pie successfully, having the right tools is key. Below are essential items you will need for this recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Pie Dish
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Rubber Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients without spills.
- Pie Dish: Provides the perfect shape and depth for your pie.
- Whisk: Ensures even mixing of your batter for a smooth filling.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Filling
- 2 cans (15-ounce) 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 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 Sweetened Whipped Cream
- 2 cups Heavy Cream
- 3 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar
How to Make Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in butter until crumbly.
- Add ice water and vinegar slowly until dough forms.
- Shape into a disk and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 3: Roll Out Dough
- On a floured surface, roll out your chilled dough into a circle.
- Transfer it to your pie dish and trim excess dough from edges.
Step 4: Prepare Pumpkin Filling
- In another bowl, heat heavy cream until warm. Stir in white chocolate until melted.
- Mix in pumpkin puree, corn syrup, spices, and salt until smooth.
Step 5: Bake Pie Crust
- Blind bake the crust for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Step 6: Add Filling
- Pour pumpkin filling into the baked crust evenly.
Step 7: Make Salted Caramel
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Cook until it turns amber.
- Remove from heat; carefully stir in cream and butter. Add salt to taste.
Step 8: Assemble
- Drizzle salted caramel over the pumpkin filling.
Step 9: Prepare Streusel Topping
- Combine flour, brown sugar, oats, butter, spices in a bowl.
- Sprinkle over caramel layer before baking further.
Step 10: Bake Pie
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 more minutes until set.
Step 11: Cool & Serve
- Allow pie to cool completely before serving with whipped cream on top.
Enjoy your homemade Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
Serving Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is a delightful experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Whether you enjoy it after a holiday feast or as a sweet treat on a cozy evening, this pie pairs beautifully with various accompaniments.
Pair with Fresh Whipped Cream
- Homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that enhances the pie’s richness.
Add a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
- The creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts perfectly with the spiced pumpkin filling, creating a delicious combination.
Serve with Hot Coffee or Tea
- A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the flavors of the pie, making for a comforting dessert experience.
Top with Crushed Nuts
- Chopped pecans or walnuts provide a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the pie.
Drizzle Extra Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of homemade salted caramel can elevate each slice, adding an extra layer of sweetness.
How to Perfect Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
To achieve the best version of Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie, follow these helpful tips.
Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality white chocolate and fresh pumpkin puree will enhance the flavor significantly.
Chill Your Dough: Letting your pie crust dough chill properly prevents shrinkage during baking.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pie while it bakes to avoid overcooking; it should be set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Taste Your Caramel: Adjust salt levels in your caramel sauce to find your perfect balance between sweet and salty.
Allow to Set: After baking, let the pie cool completely before serving so that it firms up nicely for slicing.
Best Side Dishes for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
Pairing side dishes with Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
Savory Stuffing: A classic stuffing made with herbs and vegetables provides a savory offset to the sweet pie.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a crispy texture and slightly bitter flavor that balances the pie’s sweetness.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes complement pumpkin flavors wonderfully and add richness.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce contrasts beautifully with the rich caramel and pumpkin filling.
Apple Crisp: This warm dessert offers a different texture while maintaining fall-inspired flavors.
Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses can create an interesting flavor profile when paired with slices of pumpkin caramel pie.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe, keep an eye out for common errors that can impact your results.
- Using the wrong pumpkin puree: Always use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling or mix. This ensures your filling has the right consistency and flavor.
- Overcooking the ganache: Be careful not to overheat the white chocolate when making the ganache. Use gentle heat and stir constantly to achieve a smooth texture.
- Skipping the chilling time: Don’t rush through chilling the pie before serving. Letting it cool properly allows flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.
- Neglecting the streusel topping: The streusel adds texture and flavor. Ensure you prepare it correctly and don’t skip this essential step.
- Ignoring salt balance: Adjusting salt in your caramel is crucial for flavor depth. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Cover with plastic wrap if storing on a plate to prevent drying out.
Freezing Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
- Wrap individual slices or whole pie tightly with plastic wrap, then foil for extra protection.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Warm slices gently in a non-stick pan over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe.
What is unique about Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe?
This pie combines rich pumpkin flavors with white chocolate ganache and salted caramel, creating a delightful dessert experience that stands out from traditional pumpkin pies.
Can I use different spices in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger alongside pumpkin pie spice for added warmth and complexity.
How do I make the streusel topping?
The streusel is made from flour, brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and butter. Mix them until crumbly and sprinkle over the pie before baking for a delicious crunch.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free butter alternatives while maintaining similar textures.
Final Thoughts
Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Its combination of creamy pumpkin filling, rich caramel, and crunchy streusel makes it irresistible. Plus, you can customize it by adding your favorite spices or toppings. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress friends and family alike!
Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
Experience the warmth and comfort of autumn with Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe. This delectable dessert features a rich spiced pumpkin and white chocolate ganache layered with homemade salted caramel, all encased in a buttery crust and topped with a crunchy streusel. Perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations or cozy evenings at home, this pie is not just delicious; it’s visually stunning too. Each bite offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors complemented by unique textures that will impress family and friends alike. Treat yourself to this irresistible gourmet dessert that captures the essence of fall in every slice!
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15-ounce) 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 2 cups Heavy Cream
- 3 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the pie crust by mixing flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly, then add ice water and vinegar until dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out dough into a circle and place it in a pie dish. Blind bake for 15 minutes until golden.
- Warm heavy cream, then melt white chocolate in it. Mix with pumpkin puree, corn syrup, spices, and salt.
- Pour filling into baked crust.
- Make salted caramel by cooking sugar and water until amber; stir in cream and butter off heat.
- Drizzle caramel over filling.
- Combine streusel ingredients and sprinkle over the pie.
- Bake for another 30 minutes until set.
- Cool completely before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
