Name: Delicious Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe Awaits
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Pumpkin Puree (Use pure pumpkin for best results.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Opt for fresh cream.); 0.5 cups Corn Syrup (Crucial for smooth texture.); 0.25 cups Unsalted Butter (Adds creaminess.); 6 oz White Chocolate (Use high-quality chocolate.); 1 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice (Or substitute with cinnamon and nutmeg.); 1 pinch Salt (Enhances sweetness.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla yields better results.); 1 cup White Sugar (For the right caramel color.); 0.25 cups Water (Adjusts caramel consistency.); 1.5 cups Flour (Essential for flaky crust.); 0.5 cups Fine Ground Cornmeal (Enhances crust flavor.); 0.25 cups Powdered Sugar (Balances richness.); 1 cups Rolled Oats (Adds crunch to streusel.); 1 cup Whipped Cream (For topping the pie.); 1 batch Streusel Topping (Baked until golden.)

“Thanksgiving is not just a holiday; it’s a heartfelt gathering where food is the centerpiece of cherished memories, and this Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe takes that sentiment to a new level. Imagine layers of creamy pumpkin ganache drizzled with luscious salted caramel, all tucked within a crunchy streusel-topped crust. This pie is not only visually stunning but also a showstopper when it comes to flavor—perfect for leaving your guests in awe. What’s better? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare and can even be made ahead, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities. Are you ready to wow everyone with a dessert that truly embodies the spirit of the season?”

Why is This Pie a Must-Try?

Indulgent Layers: Each slice presents a divine blend of creamy pumpkin ganache and rich salted caramel, making it an irresistible treat for your Thanksgiving table.

Visually Stunning: Topped with a crunchy streusel, it isn’t just delicious; it’s a centerpiece that will capture everyone’s attention!

Easy Preparation: With precise but simple steps, even novice bakers can create this masterpiece, allowing more time to share special moments with loved ones.

Make Ahead Options: Prepare it in advance, so you can enjoy the festivities instead of spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for All: Whether you’re a home cook or a seasoned chef, this pie is sure to impress guests, much like our Crack Burgers. Don’t miss out on a dessert that combines flavor and ease in every bite!

Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Ingredients

Get ready to create a Thanksgiving masterpiece with these essential ingredients!

For the Pumpkin Layer
• Pumpkin Puree – Use pure pumpkin for a rich flavor; avoid canned pie filling for the best results.
• Heavy Cream – Opt for fresh cream; it enriches both the ganache and whipped cream layers.
• Corn Syrup – This is crucial for a smooth caramel texture; maple syrup can be used for a unique twist.
• Unsalted Butter – Essential for creaminess in the filling and streusel.

For the Ganache
• White Chocolate – Contributes a creamy texture; choose high-quality chocolate instead of “morsels.”
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warmth and spice; feel free to substitute with cinnamon and nutmeg as desired.
• Salt – A pinch enhances the sweetness; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a wonderful depth of flavor; pure vanilla yields the best results.

For the Caramel
• White Sugar – Key for achieving the right caramel color and sweetness.
• Water – Necessary for adjusting the caramel’s consistency.

For the Pie Crust
• Flour – Forms the structure; essential for a flaky crust.
• Fine Ground Cornmeal – Enhances the crust’s flavor and contributes to its texture.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream and balances the pie’s richness.
• Rolled Oats – Adds a delightful crunch to the streusel topping.

For the Topping
• Whipped Cream – Lightens the dessert and adds a creamy finish; don’t skimp on the fluff!
• Streusel Topping – Baked until golden for that crunch factor that perfectly contrasts the silky layers underneath.

Gather these ingredients for a truly indulgent Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie that will steal the spotlight this Thanksgiving!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Pumpkin Purée
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Place pumpkin puree on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 20–30 minutes, allowing it to darken and reduce to about 2 cups. The puree should be thick and concentrated in flavor. Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool completely before using.

Step 2: Make Ganache
In a heat-safe bowl, combine the cooled roasted pumpkin with melted white chocolate, heavy cream, corn syrup, unsalted butter, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Use a whisk or an immersion blender to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Once combined, cover it and refrigerate for at least 1–2 days to deepen the flavor. When ready to use, gently reheat until pourable.

Step 3: Prepare Salted Caramel
In a medium saucepan, combine water, white sugar, and corn syrup over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and allow it to boil undisturbed until it turns a deep golden color, about 8–10 minutes. Remove from heat, carefully whisk in butter and cream, followed by vanilla extract and salt. Let the caramel cool to room temperature before using.

Step 4: Make Pie Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, fine ground cornmeal, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add vinegar and cold water until the dough just comes together. Shape it into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Roll out the dough in a floured surface and fit it into a pie pan, then blind bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Prepare Streusel
In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, butter, and powdered sugar until crumbly. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Once baked, allow it to cool completely before adding it as a topping for the pie.

Step 6: Assemble Pie
Pour the cooled salted caramel into the baked pie crust, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate the crust for at least 2 hours until the caramel is set. After the caramel has set, carefully pour the chilled ganache over the caramel layer and smooth the top with a spatula. Cover the pie and refrigerate overnight for the flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Serve
Before serving the Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie, whip fresh cream until soft peaks form and spread it over the top. Sprinkle the cooled streusel generously and slice the pie. Serve cold, allowing guests to fully enjoy the layers of flavor and textures!

Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Variations

Feel free to explore delightful twists and substitutions for your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie to make it your own!

Dark Chocolate: Swap white chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer, deeper flavor profile that wonderfully complements the pumpkin.
Maple Swap: Replace corn syrup with pure maple syrup to infuse a lovely caramel flavor while also using a natural sweetener.
Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel for an added layer of crunch and flavor contrast.
Spiced Rum: Enhance the ganache’s richness by stirring in a splash of spiced rum or bourbon for a warm, comforting twist.
Coconut Milk: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version that boasts tropical notes, perfect for the holiday.
Skip the Streusel: For a simpler preparation, omit the streusel topping entirely, and dust the pie with powdered sugar or cocoa for a lovely finish.
Heat It Up: Add a touch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the caramel to introduce an unexpected heat element that contrasts beautifully with sweetness.
Pumpkin Variants: Use butternut squash puree instead of pumpkin for a slightly different flavor that still keeps the fall spirit alive.

If you’re up for more deliciousness, try adding a side of Millionaire Peach Salad to your Thanksgiving spread for a refreshing complement to your pie! Enjoy your culinary creativity as you celebrate the season!

Make Ahead Options

The Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the flavors of Thanksgiving without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the pumpkin puree, salted caramel, and ganache up to 3 days in advance. Simply roast the pumpkin and cool it, then blend it with the other ganache ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. The salted caramel can also sit in the fridge, ensuring it’s ready to drizzle. When you’re ready to assemble, blind bake the crust, pour in the caramel, and top it with ganache before chilling overnight. This way, you’ll have a stunning pie that’s just as delightful and fresh, saving you precious time to enjoy with loved ones!

What to Serve with Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Indulge your guests with delightful sides that perfectly complement this exquisite pie and elevate your Thanksgiving feast!

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes bring a velvety texture, providing a wonderful contrast to the pie’s crunch and richness.
Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts, drizzled with maple syrup, adds a sweet-savory touch that balances the pie’s sweetness.
Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Crisp: The warm, spiced apples harmonize beautifully with the pumpkin, creating a comforting fall-themed dessert duo.
Buttery Dinner Rolls: Soft, pillowy rolls are perfect for soaking up any spilled caramel or cream, adding a satisfying texture to your meal.
Fall Salad with Pecans: A fresh salad featuring mixed greens, toasted pecans, and cranberries introduces a refreshing crunch that enhances the richness of the pie.
Hot Apple Cider: Flavorful hot apple cider with hints of cinnamon and cloves adds warmth to your gathering, complementing the rich flavors of the pie.
Espresso or Coffee: A rich, aromatic cup of coffee perfectly balances the dessert, highlighting its sweetness while aiding digestion after a indulgent meal.

How to Store and Freeze Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Fridge: Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the flavors fresh and the texture intact.

Freezer: For longer storage, slice the pie and wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Thawing: To enjoy, remove the desired slice from the freezer and thaw in the fridge overnight. This allows the flavors to re-emerge beautifully.

Reheating: If you prefer warm pie, gently reheat in a microwave for 15–20 seconds. Top it with freshly whipped cream for a delightful finish.

Expert Tips for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Quality Ingredients: Use the best white chocolate for the ganache; avoid “morsels” to achieve a creamier texture in your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie.
Prevent Crystallization: When making salted caramel, wet the sides of the saucepan with a pastry brush to prevent sugar crystals from forming.
Roast Pumpkin Properly: Ensure pumpkin puree is roasted until thick and concentrated, as excess moisture can lead to a runny filling in your pie.
Chill Your Dough: Chilling the pie crust dough for 30 minutes helps achieve a flaky texture, so don’t skip this step!
Timing is Key: Prepare components like the ganache and caramel ahead of time; this not only enhances flavor but also makes assembly a breeze.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream for a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie.

Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin should I use for this pie?
Absolutely, it’s vital to use pure pumpkin puree, not canned pie filling, for the best flavor. The puree should be thick and rich, which is essential to achieve the pie’s creamy texture.

How long can I store Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie in the fridge?
The pie can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to preserve its delicious flavors and textures.

Can I freeze this pie?
Yes! For longer storage, slice the pie and wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

How do I properly thaw the frozen pie?
To thaw, simply remove a slice from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps the pie retain its texture and flavor beautifully.

What should I do if my caramel is crystallizing?
If your caramel is crystallizing, don’t worry! Just wet the sides of the saucepan with a moist pastry brush while cooking; this prevents sugar crystals from forming, ensuring a smooth caramel consistency.

Is this pie suitable for people with allergies?
The Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie contains common allergens like dairy and gluten. If someone has a dairy allergy, consider using dairy-free alternatives, which can work well but may alter the flavor slightly. Always read labels to be safe if serving guests with dietary restrictions!