Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie: A Fall Dessert Sensation

Autumn’s arrival brings with it a symphony of comforting scents and flavors. And what better way to celebrate the season than with a slice of Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie? This isn’t your grandmother’s pumpkin pie; it’s a decadent, elevated experience that blends the classic warmth of pumpkin spice with the irresistible allure of a rich, homemade caramel. Imagine the velvety smooth pumpkin custard, perfectly spiced and infused with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin, cradled within a buttery, flaky crust. Now, picture that masterpiece topped with a layer of luscious caramel, its glossy surface hinting at the caramel’s rich, buttery depths. This isn’t just a pie; it’s a culinary masterpiece, a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients are combined with skill and passion. This recipe, inspired by the renowned Milk Bar, brings that same magical pie experience to your kitchen. Get ready to embark on a baking adventure that will impress your friends, family, and most importantly, yourself.

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 delicious; it’s an experience. The combination of a perfectly spiced pumpkin filling and a rich, homemade caramel sauce is a match made in autumnal heaven. The secret lies in the details: the homemade caramel, made from scratch with butter, sugar, cream, and corn syrup, offers a depth of flavor unmatched by store-bought versions. Its buttery, slightly salty sweetness complements the warm spices in the pumpkin custard beautifully. The buttery, flaky crust provides the perfect foundation, offering a delightful textural contrast to the smooth, creamy filling and caramel topping. It’s the kind of pie that elevates a simple dessert into a luxurious treat, worthy of any special occasion. It’s incredibly rewarding to make from scratch, offering a sense of accomplishment that far surpasses store-bought versions. Plus, the aroma that wafts through your kitchen as it bakes is pure autumn magic, making the baking process an enjoyable experience in itself. This isn’t just a pie; it’s a statement, a declaration of your dedication to deliciousness, a perfect centerpiece for any autumnal gathering.

This recipe also prioritizes quality ingredients and precise instructions. Following these steps will ensure a consistently delicious and visually stunning pie, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning pie-lovers. The detailed breakdown of each step removes the guesswork, making even complex baking steps manageable and easy to follow. You’ll discover the joy of creating a from-scratch dessert that tastes infinitely better than anything you can buy, confirming that homemade is always best. The pride you’ll feel presenting this masterpiece is as rewarding as the taste itself. If you’re looking for a pie that’s both impressive and delicious, this is it.

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

In a world of readily available store-bought desserts, making a Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie from scratch offers a uniquely rewarding experience. The process itself is a journey into the heart of baking, allowing you to connect with the ingredients and the craft of creating something truly special. It’s a chance to slow down, to appreciate the details, and to savor the process as much as the final product. This recipe isn’t just about creating a pie; it’s about creating a memory, a shared experience that you can enjoy with loved ones. The aroma alone, as the pie bakes, fills your kitchen with the warmth and spice of autumn. It’s a sensory delight that foreshadows the incredible flavor experience that awaits. Imagine the conversations it will spark, the smiles it will bring, and the memories that will be made around a slice of this exceptional pie.

Beyond the personal satisfaction, this recipe provides an opportunity to impress your friends and family. Serving a homemade pie, especially one as visually stunning and flavourful as this, demonstrates care and dedication. This Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a gesture of love, a thoughtful offering that shows you put time, effort, and a passion for excellence into your culinary creations. It’s a recipe that elevates baking from a chore to an act of artistry. It’s a chance to create something extraordinary, something that showcases your skills and your commitment to quality, resulting in a pie that leaves a lasting impression.

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

Gathering the right ingredients and utensils is crucial for baking success. Using high-quality ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie. This section details everything you’ll need to create this autumnal masterpiece.

Ingredients:

• For the Caramel:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor. Land O’Lakes or Kerrygold are excellent choices.
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Use a fine granulated sugar for even caramelisation.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Full-fat heavy cream is essential for a rich and creamy caramel.
• ½ cup light corn syrup: This helps prevent crystallization in the caramel.
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt: Sea salt enhances the caramel’s flavor and balances the sweetness.
• For the Pumpkin Custard:
• 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree: Use 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
• 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk: Evaporated milk adds richness and creaminess to the custard.
• 2 large eggs: Large eggs are recommended for optimal binding and texture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is a key component of classic pumpkin pie spice.
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger: Ginger adds warmth and complexity to the spice blend.
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves: Cloves contribute a slightly pungent note to the spice blend.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a subtle warmth and complexity.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Granulated sugar provides sweetness and helps thicken the custard.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• For the Crust:
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: Use all-purpose flour for a tender and flaky crust.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the crust.
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed: Cold butter is crucial for a flaky crust.
• ¼ cup vegetable shortening, chilled and cubed: Shortening contributes to a tender crust.
• ¼ cup ice water: Ice water helps keep the butter cold and prevents the dough from becoming tough.

Necessary Utensils:

• 9-inch pie plate
• Medium saucepan (for caramel)
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Large bowl (for custard)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry blender or fork (for crust)
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Mixer (optional, but helpful for the custard)
• Baking sheet

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

This section provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to making Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie. Take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and enjoy the process!

Making the Caramel:

1. Combine butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns a light amber color.
2. **Caution:** Be careful not to burn the sugar. If it starts to smoke, remove it from the heat immediately.
3. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream. The mixture will bubble vigorously. Continue whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in the corn syrup and salt. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Making the Pumpkin Custard:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. **Tip:** For a smoother custard, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture.

Making the Crust:

1. Whisk together the flour and salt in a large bowl.
2. Cut in the chilled butter and shortening using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
4. Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle.
6. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate.
7. Trim and crimp the edges.
8. **Important:** Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking.
9. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes.
10. Remove the weights and parchment paper and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Assembling and Baking the Pie:

1. Pour the cooled caramel into the pre-baked pie crust. Spread evenly.
2. Pour the pumpkin custard over the caramel layer.
3. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
4. **Important:** The pie will continue to set as it cools.
5. Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

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

This section offers some helpful tips and delicious variations to customize your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie.

• For a gluten-free crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust mix or make your own using gluten-free flour blend.
• For a vegan version: Use vegan butter, vegan heavy cream, and flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) for the custard and caramel. Experiment with different vegan pie crust recipes to find one that holds up well.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of allspice to the pumpkin custard for an extra kick.
• Add texture: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the pumpkin custard for added crunch.
• Garnish beautifully: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, candied pecans, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Avoid burning the caramel: Keep a close eye on the caramel as it cooks and stir constantly to prevent burning. If it begins to smoke, remove it from the heat immediately.
• Don’t overbake the pie: Overbaking can result in a dry crust and a rubbery filling. Start checking for doneness around 45 minutes.

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

While this is a treat best enjoyed in moderation, let’s examine the nutritional aspects and benefits of the ingredients.

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving, will vary based on specific ingredients used): Exact nutritional information requires a detailed analysis using specific ingredient brands and serving size. However, we can discuss general nutritional components:

• High in Calories: This pie is rich and calorie-dense due to the butter, sugar, and cream.
• High in Fat: Butter, heavy cream, and pumpkin puree contribute to the high fat content.
• High in Sugar: The sugar in the caramel and custard contributes significantly to the sweetness.
• Moderate in Protein: The eggs contribute some protein to the pie.
• Source of Vitamin A: Pumpkin is a good source of Vitamin A.

Benefits of Ingredients:

• Pumpkin: A good source of Vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Cinnamon: Has anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar.
• Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

Remember 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 Delight of Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Creating Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is a journey of culinary exploration. It’s a chance to connect with the autumnal season through the rich, warm flavors and aromas that fill your kitchen. The reward? A pie so exquisite, it’s guaranteed to be the star of any fall gathering, and a cherished memory for those who share it. Don’t be intimidated by the seemingly long recipe – each step is clearly explained and designed for success. The detailed instructions and tips provided throughout this guide aim to make the process enjoyable and rewarding. From the buttery, flaky crust to the smooth, spiced pumpkin filling, and the irresistible caramel topping, this pie is a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave everyone wanting more.

We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your beautiful creations on social media using #MilkBarHillyPumpkinCaramelPie. For more delicious dessert recipes, check out our other recipes on cocinafacilita.com/recipes/. Happy baking!

And for even more fall-inspired baking inspiration, why not check out our amazing Pumpkin Spice Cake recipe or our incredibly popular Best Pumpkin Pie recipe? You might also love our Easy Peanut Butter Pie for a no-bake alternative!

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Milk Bar's Hilly's Pumpkin Caramel Pie

A decadent pumpkin pie with a rich caramel topping, perfect for fall gatherings. This recipe recreates the beloved Milk Bar classic.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dessert, Pie

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Caramel Ingredients

• 2 sticks Unsalted Butter
• 1 1/2 cups Granulated Sugar
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
• 1/2 cup Light Corn Syrup
• 1/4 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
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt

Crust Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1 stick Unsalted Butter chilled and cubed
• 1/4 cup Vegetable Shortening chilled and cubed
• 1/4 cup Ice Water

Equipment

• 9-inch pie plate
• Mixing Bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Pastry blender or food processor
• Oven

Method

 

Instructions

1. Make the crust: Whisk together flour and salt. Cut in butter and shortening using a pastry blender or food processor until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until dough just comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out dough and fit into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp edges. Prick bottom with a fork and bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
3. Make the caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine butter and sugar over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved and mixture is amber in color. Carefully whisk in cream and corn syrup (it will bubble). Stir in salt.
4. Make the pumpkin custard: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, sugar, and salt until smooth.
5. Pour caramel into the pre-baked pie crust. Pour pumpkin custard over the caramel.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until custard is set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before serving.
7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving for best results.

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 before baking.