Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that will truly wow your friends and family, then you’ve found it with this Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe. This pie is an absolute showstopper, combining a rich, spiced pumpkin filling with creamy white chocolate and luscious salted caramel. It’s perfect for cozy family gatherings, festive celebrations, or even just to indulge yourself after a long week. Trust me; this pie quickly becomes a favorite in any home!

What makes this recipe so special is not just its heavenly flavor but also its delightful layers of texture—from the crisp homemade crust to the silky ganache and crunchy streusel topping. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this pie is surprisingly approachable and definitely worth the effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique: The combination of pumpkin and white chocolate brings a new twist to traditional flavors.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping out with the layers of this pie—it’s fun to make together!
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it a day in advance, so all you need to do on serving day is slice and enjoy.
• Impressive Presentation: With its stunning layers and toppings, this pie looks as good as it tastes.
• Comforting Flavor: The warm spices and sweet caramel create a cozy dessert that feels like a hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe is part of the fun! Each item is simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up this delicious dessert.

For the Pie 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! Feel free to play around with the ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Try Different Spices: Experiment with adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick of warmth.
• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled into the streusel topping for added crunch.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Swap the Sweetener: Use maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a more natural sweetness.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by making your pie crust. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water mixed with apple cider vinegar until it forms a dough. This crust is flaky and provides a sturdy base for all those delicious layers.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Roll out your dough on a floured surface and transfer it into your pie dish. Prick holes in the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking. Bake until golden brown—this step ensures that your crust holds up against all that creamy filling!

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Filling

In a saucepan over low heat, melt white chocolate with heavy cream and butter until smooth. Stir in pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well-combined. This step creates that rich flavor we love in pumpkin desserts!

Step 4: Create the Salted Caramel

In another saucepan, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup over medium heat. Allow it to boil without stirring until it turns amber-colored. Remove from heat carefully and stir in heavy cream, butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Be cautious—this can bubble up! This caramel will add that sweet touch everyone loves.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

Pour half of the pumpkin filling into your baked crust followed by half of your salted caramel. Repeat this layering process until everything is used up—this layering gives every slice beautiful swirls of color!

Step 6: Prepare Toppings

While your pie cools down slightly, prepare your streusel by mixing flour, brown sugar, oats, butter, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt until crumbly. Scatter it generously over your filled pie for added texture.

Step 7: Bake Again

Return your assembled pie to the oven for additional baking time until set in the center. Let it cool completely before adding whipped cream on top—you want that beautiful peak when serving!

Step8: Serve & Enjoy!

When you’re ready to serve your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe, whip some heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread over each slice before serving! Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!

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

Creating this delightful pie is a labor of love, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your baking game!

• Use fresh pumpkin puree: While canned pumpkin is convenient, using freshly roasted pumpkin can enhance the flavor and texture of your pie, making it taste even more homemade and delicious.
• Chill your ingredients: Keeping your butter and water ice-cold when making the pie crust ensures a flaky, tender pastry. This helps to create those perfect layers that everyone loves in a good pie crust.
• Don’t rush the caramel: When making the salted caramel, patience is key. Allowing it to cook slowly over medium heat allows the sugar to melt evenly, preventing burning while achieving a rich flavor.
• Taste as you go: Adjusting the amount of salt in your caramel or spices in your pumpkin filling can be crucial. Don’t hesitate to taste each component as you make it to ensure everything is perfectly balanced.
• Let it cool completely: After baking, allow your pie to cool fully before serving. This helps all the layers set up properly, ensuring every slice holds together beautifully when you cut into it.

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

Serving this pie is just as important as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can impress your guests and elevate their dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the rich pie.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling extra salted caramel on top not only looks stunning but also adds an extra layer of sweetness.
• Toasted Pecans: Sprinkling some toasted pecans on top provides a lovely crunch and enhances the nutty flavors of fall.

Side Dishes

• Spiced Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider pairs beautifully with the flavors of the pie, adding warmth and comfort to your dessert table.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances out the richness of the pie and offers a delightful contrast in temperature.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: For a savory side that complements the sweetness of the pie, roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with olive oil and sea salt add an earthy touch.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can cleanse the palate after indulging in such a decadent dessert, providing balance in flavors.

Enjoy crafting this sweet masterpiece that’s sure to make any gathering feel special!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a slice of fall goodness any day of the week. You can make it ahead of time, so it’s ready for your gatherings or just a cozy night in.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If possible, keep the whipped cream separate until serving for the best texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
• Label the pie with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap and place the pie on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Serve with freshly whipped cream if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use a store-bought crust for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a store-bought crust works well. Just make sure it’s a deep-dish crust to hold all that delicious filling.

What makes Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe different from traditional pumpkin pie?

This recipe features a unique combination of spiced pumpkin white chocolate ganache and salted caramel, offering a rich and creamy twist on the classic pumpkin pie flavor.

How can I make Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe vegan-friendly?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream alternative. Use vegan butter for the crust and streusel topping as well.

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

The total time is approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes, including both prep and cook time. It’s well worth every minute!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating with family or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this pie is sure to impress. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!