Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Autumn’s arrival brings a wave of cozy comfort, and what better way to embrace the season than with a slice of Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie? This isn’t your grandma’s pumpkin pie; it’s a sophisticated, decadent masterpiece that elevates the classic dessert to a whole new level. Imagine a perfectly baked, flaky pie crust cradling a layer of rich, homemade caramel, topped with a smooth, spiced pumpkin custard. The combination of sweet caramel, creamy pumpkin, and warming spices creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. This recipe, inspired by the renowned Milk Bar bakery, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for Thanksgiving, autumn gatherings, or simply a cozy night in. Prepare to be amazed by the depth of flavor and the undeniable deliciousness of this truly exceptional pie. Let’s dive into the details and embark on this delightful baking journey together!

Why You’ll Love This Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe

This Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie recipe isn’t just another pumpkin pie; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dessert that elicits “oohs” and “aahs” with each bite. What makes it so special? Let’s break it down:

• Unforgettable Caramel: The homemade caramel is the star of the show. Unlike store-bought caramel, which can be overly sweet and artificial, this caramel boasts a complex flavor profile – rich, buttery, slightly salty, and with just the right amount of sweetness. The process of making it, though slightly involved, is entirely worth the effort. The deep amber color and glossy sheen are visual indicators of its exceptional quality.
• Perfectly Spiced Pumpkin Custard: The pumpkin custard is not just a simple pumpkin filling; it’s a harmonious blend of pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, and warm spices. The combination of cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg provides a complex aromatic experience that perfectly complements the caramel’s sweetness. The texture is smooth and creamy, providing a lovely contrast to the crisp pie crust and the slightly chewy caramel.
• Flaky, Buttery Crust: While you can use a store-bought crust for convenience, making your own adds a delightful homemade touch. The result? A flaky, buttery crust that’s the perfect foundation for this decadent pie. A homemade crust enhances the overall luxurious experience of the pie, ensuring that every component shines.
• Impressive Presentation: This pie isn’t just delicious; it’s visually stunning. The golden-brown crust, the rich amber caramel, and the vibrant orange pumpkin custard create a beautiful presentation that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a showstopper dessert that impresses both visually and in taste.
• Perfect for Sharing (or Not!): This pie is large enough to share with friends and family, making it ideal for holidays or gatherings. However, its irresistible flavor might make you want to keep it all to yourself!

Why You Should Try This Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe

In a world of readily available desserts, making this Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie offers a unique and rewarding experience. Here’s why you should give it a try:

• Elevated Baking Skills: Making this pie takes your baking game to the next level. You’ll master the art of making caramel from scratch, a skill that will impress your friends and family and enhance your confidence in the kitchen. It’s a challenging yet fulfilling baking project.
• Superior Taste: Homemade caramel and pumpkin custard simply taste better than anything you can buy pre-made. The flavor is more complex, richer, and more satisfying. The quality of ingredients and the care put into the process makes all the difference.
• Impress Your Loved Ones: This pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of dessert that evokes compliments and requests for the recipe. Sharing a homemade pie is a wonderful way to show your love and appreciation.
• Unique Flavor Combination: The combination of pumpkin and caramel is a match made in autumn heaven. The warm spices in the pumpkin custard perfectly balance the sweetness of the caramel, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated.
• A Memorable Dessert Experience: This is not just a pie; it’s a memory-making dessert. From the time you spend making it to the joy of sharing it with others, this recipe is an experience you won’t soon forget. It’s a dessert that elevates special occasions.

Ingredients and Utensils for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Gathering the right ingredients and tools is crucial for baking success. Let’s ensure you have everything you need for a smooth and delightful baking experience.

Ingredients:

• For the Caramel:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into cubes (Keyword: unsalted butter)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (Keyword: granulated sugar)
• ½ cup light corn syrup (Keyword: light corn syrup)
• ½ cup heavy cream (Keyword: heavy cream)
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt (Keyword: sea salt)
• For the Pumpkin Custard:
• 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree (Keyword: pumpkin puree)
• 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk (Keyword: evaporated milk)
• 2 large eggs (Keyword: large eggs)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Keyword: ground cinnamon)
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger (Keyword: ground ginger)
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (Keyword: ground cloves)
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (Keyword: ground nutmeg)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (Keyword: granulated sugar)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Keyword: vanilla extract)
• For the Crust:
• 1 (9-inch) pie crust, baked (use your favorite recipe or store-bought) (Keyword: pie crust)

Utensils:

• Medium saucepan (heavy-bottomed is preferable for even heating) (Keyword: saucepan)
• Whisk (Keyword: whisk)
• Large bowl (Keyword: large bowl)
• 9-inch pie plate (Keyword: pie plate)
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon (Keyword: spatula)
• Measuring cups and spoons (Keyword: measuring cups)
• Oven (Keyword: oven)
• Wire rack (Keyword: wire rack)

Detailed Recipe Steps for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to achieving the best results.

Making the Caramel:

1. Prepare your ingredients: Ensure your butter is cut into cubes. This helps it melt evenly. Have your sugar, corn syrup, cream, and salt measured and ready to go.
2. Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, carefully combine the butter, sugar, and corn syrup. Do not stir.
3. Cook the caramel: Swirl the pan occasionally to distribute the heat evenly. Do not stir with a spoon or whisk. The sugar needs to melt and caramelize without interruption. This will take approximately 10-15 minutes. The caramel will gradually turn from a light amber to a deep, rich amber color. Be patient and watchful! Caramel burns quickly, so keep a close eye on it.
4. Add the cream (carefully!): Once the caramel reaches a deep amber color, carefully whisk in the heavy cream. It will bubble up vigorously! This is normal, but be prepared for the steam and potential splattering. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and combined.
5. Season and pour: Stir in the sea salt. Pour the caramel immediately into your baked pie crust. Spread it evenly to create a thin, even layer.
6. Cool completely: Let the caramel cool completely at room temperature before proceeding to the next step. This is crucial to prevent the caramel from melting the pumpkin custard.

Making the Pumpkin Custard:

1. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, sugar, and vanilla extract until completely smooth and well incorporated. Make sure there are no lumps. A smooth batter ensures a smooth, creamy pie.
2. Pour over caramel: Gently pour the pumpkin custard over the cooled caramel in the pie crust. Try to avoid spilling to maintain a clean and aesthetically pleasing pie.

Baking the Pie:

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Bake the pie for 50-60 minutes, or until the custard is set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center. Avoid overbaking. Overbaking will result in a dry pie.
3. Cool and chill: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial for the pie to set properly. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the pie to fully set.

Tips and Variations for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Here are a few tips and variations to help you customize and perfect your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie:

• Crust Alternatives: Use a gluten-free pie crust for a gluten-free version. You can also experiment with different types of crusts, such as a graham cracker crust or a gingersnap crust.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of allspice or cardamom to the pumpkin custard for a more complex spice profile. Experiment with different spice combinations to find your personal favorite.
• Salted Caramel Variation: Sprinkle a few flaky sea salt crystals over the top of the cooled pie for an extra touch of salty-sweet deliciousness. This adds a delightful textural element as well.
• Vegan Adaptation: Replace the eggs with a flax egg substitute (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and the butter with vegan butter. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly for a vegan version.
• Make Ahead: The pie can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for busy schedules or when you need a delicious dessert ready for an upcoming gathering.
• Avoid Burning the Caramel: Keep a close watch on the caramel as it cooks. It can burn quickly, so be attentive and reduce the heat if necessary. A candy thermometer can be helpful to monitor the temperature.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

While this pie is undeniably indulgent, it does offer some nutritional benefits thanks to its ingredients. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Nutritional information per slice (assuming 8 slices):

• Calories: Approximately 500-600 calories
• Protein: Approximately 5-7 grams
• Fat: Approximately 30-35 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 60-70 grams

Benefits of Ingredients:

• Pumpkin Puree: Rich in Vitamin A, beta-carotene, and fiber. These nutrients contribute to healthy vision, immune function, and digestive health.
• Cinnamon: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, potentially aiding digestion.

It’s important to enjoy this pie in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

FAQs about Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Conclusion: Indulge in the Magic of Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

This Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create a truly unforgettable dessert experience. From the rich, homemade caramel to the perfectly spiced pumpkin custard, every element contributes to its irresistible appeal. The detailed steps and tips provided will guide you through the process, ensuring your success in crafting this autumnal masterpiece. Don’t forget to share your baking journey and the final delicious result with us in the comments below! And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out our other fall-inspired treats like Pumpkin Pie Cookies or Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies. Happy baking!

For even more delicious inspiration, check out some of our other amazing recipes on Pinterest! Check them out here!

Milk Bar's Hilly's Pumpkin Caramel Pie

A decadent pumpkin pie with a rich caramel bottom. This recipe delivers a delightful blend of sweet and spiced flavors, perfect for autumn gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Course Dessert, Pie

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• 9-inch pie plate
• Whisk
• Large bowl
• Wire Rack

Ingredients

  

Caramel Ingredients

• 2 sticks Unsalted Butter cut into cubes
• 1.5 cups Granulated Sugar
• 0.5 cup Light Corn Syrup
• 0.5 cup Heavy Cream
• 0.25 teaspoon Sea Salt

Pumpkin Custard Ingredients

• 1 15 ounce can Pumpkin Puree
• 1 12 ounce can Evaporated Milk
• 2 Large Eggs
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground Ginger
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground Cloves
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Crust Ingredients

• 1 9-inch Pie Crust baked (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

 

Make the Caramel

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, sugar, and corn syrup. Do not stir.
• Cook, swirling occasionally, until the sugar is melted and deep amber (10-15 minutes). Be careful not to burn.
• Carefully whisk in heavy cream (it will bubble). Whisk until smooth.
• Stir in salt. Pour caramel into the baked pie crust and spread evenly. Let cool completely.

Make the Pumpkin Custard

• In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
• Pour pumpkin custard over the cooled caramel in the pie crust.

Bake and Cool

• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the custard is set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center.
• Let cool completely on a wire rack. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving.

Notes

For a richer caramel flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts to the top of the pie before baking for added texture and flavor.

Keyword caramel, dessert recipe, easy pie, fall recipe, holiday pie, pumpkin pie