Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will impress friends and family, then you’ve come to the right place! The Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe is one of those delightful treats that feels both special and comforting at the same time. This pie has quickly become a favorite among many, and once you try it, you’ll understand why!

Imagine a homemade pie crust cradling a creamy pumpkin white chocolate ganache, layered with rich salted caramel, and topped with fluffy whipped cream and a crunchy streusel. It’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or even just a weekend treat when you’re craving something sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique Flavor: This pie combines the warm spices of pumpkin with rich white chocolate and salted caramel for an unforgettable taste experience.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this creamy dessert—it’s hard to resist!
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance for parties or special occasions so you can enjoy your time with loved ones.
• Stunning Presentation: With its layers and toppings, this pie not only tastes amazing but also looks impressive on any dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this pie is easier than you might think! With simple and wholesome ingredients, you’ll be able to create something truly scrumptious. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! While I adore it just as it is, here are some fun ideas to customize your pie:

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be added for some extra crunch in both the filling and streusel topping.
• Spice it up: Feel free to play around with additional spices like nutmeg or ginger for a more robust flavor.
• Change the chocolate: If you’re not a fan of white chocolate, try using dark chocolate for a richer taste.

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

Step 1: Make the Pie Crust

Start by mixing your flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until you achieve a crumbly texture. Gradually stir in ice water mixed with vinegar until the dough comes together. Chill this dough while you prepare the filling—this helps keep the crust flaky!

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In a saucepan over low heat, melt your white chocolate with heavy cream. Stir until smooth. In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Fold in the melted chocolate mixture until well combined. This step is crucial as it blends those warm flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel

In a heavy-bottom pan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Cook without stirring until it turns golden brown. Carefully add heavy cream and butter while whisking continuously. Add vanilla extract and salt to finish. The salted caramel adds depth that perfectly complements the pumpkin filling.

Step 4: Assemble Your Pie

Roll out your chilled dough into a pie dish. Pour in half of your pumpkin filling followed by drizzling half of your salted caramel over it. Then layer on remaining filling before adding more caramel on top. This layering creates delicious pockets of flavor!

Step 5: Bake Your Pie

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50 minutes or until set. The edges should be lightly browned while still wobbly in the center—this will firm up as it cools.

Step 6: Prepare Toppings

While your pie cools, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form—this adds lightness to each slice!

Step 7: Finish with Streusel

Combine flour, brown sugar, oats, butter, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt for your streusel topping. Sprinkle generously over each slice before serving this decadent dessert.

And there you have it—the Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe! Enjoy every bite!

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

Creating the perfect pumpkin caramel pie is a delightful journey, and these tips will help ensure yours turns out beautifully every time!

• Use high-quality white chocolate – This is crucial for achieving a smooth and rich ganache. The better the chocolate, the more luxurious your pie will taste.
• Chill your equipment – Before making the whipped cream and pie crust, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This keeps everything cold and helps achieve a fluffy texture.
• Don’t rush the caramel – When making your salted caramel, take your time to let it reach the right color before adding salt. A well-cooked caramel enhances the flavor profile of your pie immensely.
• Taste as you go – Pumpkin puree can vary in flavor, so don’t hesitate to adjust spices or sweetness in your filling. Make it your own by tailoring it to your palate!
• Let it cool completely – After baking, allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before serving. This helps the filling set properly and makes slicing much easier.

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

Serving this incredible pie is just as important as making it! With a few simple touches, you can make it even more special for family and friends.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream – A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a lightness that balances the rich flavors of pumpkin and caramel.
• Cinnamon Dusting – A sprinkle of cinnamon on top not only looks beautiful but enhances the warm spices in the pie.
• Toasted Pecans – Chopped toasted pecans add a lovely crunch and complement the nutty notes in the streusel topping.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream serves as a delightful contrast to the warm pie while also enhancing its flavors.
• Spiced Apple Cider – A warm cup of spiced apple cider brings an autumnal touch that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
• Roasted Vegetables – A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables provides a savory counterpoint that balances the sweetness of dessert.
• Simple Green Salad – A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cleanses the palate between bites of rich pie, ensuring every mouthful remains enjoyable.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dessert that promises to be a showstopper at any gathering! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a delicious dessert throughout the week, here’s how to keep your pie fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pie slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The pie is best enjoyed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• For added protection, cover the pie with plastic wrap before placing it in the container.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• The pie can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, place them on a microwave-safe plate and warm them for about 15-20 seconds.
• For a crispier crust, you can reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
• Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!

FAQs

Glad you asked! Here are some common questions that might arise when making this delightful pie:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree in the Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but make sure it’s well-cooked and pureed until smooth. Canned pumpkin puree saves time and offers consistent results.

How long does the Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie last?

Your delicious pie will last about 3-4 days in the fridge if stored properly. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it!

Can I substitute white chocolate with another type of chocolate?

While white chocolate gives this pie its unique flavor profile, you could experiment with dairy-free chocolate options if needed. Just be aware that this may change the taste.

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

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the crust and streusel topping.

What can I serve with my Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie?

Serve it with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of your favorite non-dairy ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen! This decadent dessert is not just a treat; it’s an experience that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. Enjoy making it for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. I can’t wait for you to try it—happy baking!