When the autumn leaves start to turn, there’s a wave of nostalgia that sweeps through my kitchen, drawing me back to warm family gatherings and laughter-filled evenings. That’s when I find myself craving something special—like Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie. This delightful dessert isn’t just your average pumpkin pie; it boasts a flaky crust that cradles a smooth, spiced pumpkin filling, all swirled with rich caramel that adds just the right touch of decadence. The moment you take it out of the oven, the sweet aroma fills the air, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or simply indulging in a sweet treat after a long day, this pie is the answer to your autumn dessert dreams. I cannot wait to share the steps to create this mouthwatering masterpiece that’s sure to brighten up your fall celebrations. So, let’s get baking and fill our homes with the inviting scents of the season!
Why is Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie a Must-Try?
Indulgence, this pie brings together the cherished flavors of autumn in a way that captivates the senses.
Flaky Crust that holds the creamy filling perfectly, elevating each slice to pure bliss.
Decadent Caramel swirls added to the comforting pumpkin, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.
Easy Preparation means you don’t have to be a master baker to impress your family and friends.
Cozy Aroma fills your kitchen, creating a nostalgic atmosphere perfect for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy it with whipped cream or a drizzle of extra caramel for an irresistible treat, and don’t forget to check out our tips for making the best pie!
Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
• Pie Crust – Choose store-bought for convenience or make your own for a heartfelt touch.
For the Pumpkin Filling
• Canned Pumpkin Puree – Aim for 100% pumpkin puree, as it delivers robust flavor without added sugars.
• Brown Sugar – Dark brown sugar is excellent for adding a deeper, richer flavor to the filling.
• Cinnamon – Freshly ground cinnamon boosts the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
• Nutmeg – A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg brightens up the filling, elevating the taste.
• Sea Salt – This helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
For the Caramel Sauce
• Granulated Sugar – Melt it slowly to achieve that perfect amber color and texture.
• Heavy Cream – Be sure it’s at room temperature for a smooth blend when making caramel.
• Unsalted Butter – High-quality butter adds richness, making your caramel sauce even more indulgent.
This comforting Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is a true autumn delight, perfect for your next gathering!
How to Make Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking. This ensures that when the pie goes in, it bakes evenly and beautifully.
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Prepare Crust: Roll out your pie crust gently, fitting it snugly into a 9-inch pie dish. Don’t forget to trim any excess crust hanging over the edges for a clean look.
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Blind Bake Crust: Carefully prick the bottom of the crust with a fork, line it with parchment paper, and fill with pie weights. Bake for about 15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden, then remove the weights and parchment.
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Make Pumpkin Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth, blending the flavors together.
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Prepare Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar slowly until it turns a rich amber color. Then, remove it from the heat and whisk in heavy cream and butter until fully incorporated.
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Assemble Pie: Pour the creamy pumpkin filling into the pre-baked crust. Drizzle the luscious caramel sauce over the top and use a knife to create gentle swirls for an eye-catching design.
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Final Bake: Place the assembled pie back into the oven for 30-35 minutes. It should be set, with a slight jiggle in the center—this is key for the perfect texture!
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Cool & Serve: Once baked, let the pie cool completely before slicing. Serve with cloud-like whipped cream or drizzle on extra caramel for a truly indulgent treat.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of fall flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality canned pumpkin puree and fresh spices to enhance the pie’s overall flavor; these small details make a big difference!
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Temperature Matters: Ensure the heavy cream is at room temperature before adding to the caramel. This will prevent any clumping and result in a silky-smooth sauce.
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Avoid Soggy Crust: Blind baking the pie crust is essential to prevent it from becoming soggy when filled with the pumpkin mixture. It’s a simple step that guarantees a flaky texture!
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Perfect Caramel Color: When melting the granulated sugar, watch it closely. Remove it from heat as soon as it turns amber to avoid burning and developing a bitter flavor.
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Cooling Time is Key: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes for cleaner, more appealing slices of the Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie.
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Creative Swirls: Don’t be afraid to get artistic with your caramel swirls! A simple knife swirl through the pumpkin filling gives the pie a beautiful finish, making it even more inviting.
Make Ahead Options
These Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie components are perfect for make-ahead planning, helping busy home cooks enjoy more time with family! You can completely prepare the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance; simply blind bake it, let it cool, and store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. The pumpkin filling can also be made ahead—just refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To minimize browning, ensure that the filling is tightly sealed. When you’re ready to serve, pour the chilled filling into the crust, drizzle with caramel, and bake to perfection—bringing forth that warm, inviting aroma without all the last-minute fuss! Enjoy a delicious slice that tastes just as fresh as if you made it all in one go.
What to Serve with Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie?
Warm up your kitchen and your heart by creating a complete meal experience that pairs beautifully with this sweet autumn indulgence.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream adds a light and fluffy contrast to the rich pie, enhancing every bite.
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Warm Spiced Cider: The familiar flavors of cinnamon and clove in spiced cider echo the pie’s spiciness, making it the perfect warm drink pairing.
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Candied Pecans: Crunchy, caramel-coated pecans offer a textural delight that complements the pie’s creamy filling while adding a festive flair.
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Apple Crisp: Serve alongside warm apple crisp for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, enhancing the autumnal theme.
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Dark Chocolate Espresso: A small cup of dark chocolate espresso rounds out the sweetness of the pie with a rich, caffeine-infused finish.
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Maple Pecan Ice Cream: A scoop of this decadent treat mirrors the pie’s flavors while adding a cool, creamy element that will delight your guests.
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Gingerbread Cookies: The warm spices in gingerbread cookies provide a comforting bite that pairs seamlessly with the pumpkin flavors, making for a cozy dessert platter.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: For caffeine lovers, this seasonal drink not only shares flavors with the pie but also elevates the sweet experience you’re creating.
Indulge in these pairings, and let the flavors of fall shine through your dining experience!
Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delicious twists and substitutions!
- Graham Cracker Crust: Swap your regular pie crust for a crushed graham cracker crust for added sweetness and a delightful crunch.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream and follow with vegan butter to make a lactose-friendly caramel.
- Spicy Kick: Replace nutmeg with ground ginger for a warming, spicy touch, enhancing the autumn flavors.
- Extra Texture: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a wonderful crunch that complements the creamy pie.
- Maple Caramel: Use maple syrup in place of granulated sugar to create a rich, maple-flavored caramel sauce that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top before serving for a stunning contrast to the pumpkin and caramel.
- Apple-Pumpkin Fusion: Mix pumpkin puree with freshly grated apple for a fruity twist that brings brightness to the filling.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Enhance the flavor by mixing cinnamon into the caramel for a delightful surprise in each bite.
Let your imagination run wild, and enjoy creating your own unique version of this beloved pie!
How to Store and Freeze Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie
Fridge: Store any leftover pie in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you need to preserve it longer, freeze the pie after it’s completely cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, ensuring no air is trapped. It can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy slices later, reheating is easy! Simply microwave for about 20 seconds for each slice or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10 minutes, keeping the textures delightful.
Feel free to whip up some extra caramel if you want that luxurious touch when serving, enhancing the experience of your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie!
Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
I recommend using 100% canned pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling. This choice gives you better control over sweetness and ensures your pie maintains that rich pumpkin flavor.
How should I store leftover Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie?
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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Can I freeze Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie?
Absolutely! After the pie has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Why is my crust soggy?
A soggy crust usually results from not blind baking properly. To prevent this, prick the bottom of the crust, line it with parchment paper, and fill with weights while baking. This step ensures a flaky, perfectly baked crust that withstands the moisture of the pumpkin filling.
Can I use alternatives for specific ingredients?
Yes! If you want a lighter version, consider using coconut cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream for the caramel. You can also substitute ground ginger for nutmeg if you’re seeking a spicier flavor in your filling.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
While the traditional recipe uses regular pie crust, you can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free pie crust. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients, like the granulated sugar and spices, are gluten-free as well.
Indulge in Milk Bar Hilly's Pumpkin Caramel Pie Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for even baking.
- Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming any excess.
- Blind bake the crust for about 15 minutes until lightly golden, then remove weights and parchment.
- In a mixing bowl, combine canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt. Whisk until smooth.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar until it turns a rich amber color, then whisk in heavy cream and butter.
- Pour the pumpkin filling into the pre-baked crust and drizzle caramel sauce. Use a knife to create swirls.
- Bake the assembled pie for 30-35 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool completely before slicing. Serve with whipped cream or extra caramel.
