Name: Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie: The Best Fall Dessert Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pie crust pre-baked; 2 cups pumpkin puree; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup caramel sauce

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Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie: The Best Fall Dessert Delight

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Sophie B

Saturday, November 29, 2025 2:27 pm

Introduction to Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Fall is here, and it’s time to embrace the cozy flavors of the season! When we think of autumn desserts, pumpkin pie naturally tops the list. Why? Pumpkin pie is not just a seasonal treat; it’s an experience filled with warmth and nostalgia. The creamy, spiced filling perfectly captures the essence of fall, making it the ultimate dessert for gatherings around the fireplace or family dinners. According to a study by the American Institute for Cancer Research, pumpkin is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making your indulgence a bit healthier. Who knew dessert could be your wellness ally?

Speaking of pumpkin pie, have you ever tried Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie? This twist on the classic dessert is sure to elevate your fall celebrations. Imagine a luscious, spiced pumpkin filling cradled inside a decadent caramel layer, all encased in a perfectly crisp crust. It’s the kind of pie that brings friends and family together, sparking conversations about favorite autumn memories while you savor each delicious bite. Plus, this pie is made to impress, whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro.

To make your experience even sweeter, this exceptional recipe welcomes you to experiment. With its inviting flavors and rich textures, it’s an ideal starting point to explore the world of seasonal baking. You can find unique variations and baking tips on blogs like Smitten Kitchen or Serious Eats that will help you fine-tune your skills.

As the days grow shorter and the leaves change color, remember that baking this delightful Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie can transform your kitchen into a warm, inviting haven filled with tantalizing scents. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and let’s dive into this recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your fall repertoire!

Ingredients for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Creating Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is a delightful adventure in the kitchen! To make this indulgent pie, you’ll need to gather a few essential ingredients that work harmoniously together.

Essential Ingredients for the Pumpkin Ganache

For that velvety pumpkin ganache, you will need:

Pumpkin purée: Fresh or canned will do, but ensure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling.
Heavy cream: This adds richness to your ganache.
Sugar: A little sweetness balances the pumpkin’s earthiness.
Spices: Think cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for that warm, seasonal flavor profile.

Components of the Chewy Salted Caramel

The chewy salted caramel takes this pie over the top! You’ll need:

Granulated sugar: For making the caramel.
Butter: Unsalted, to control the saltiness.
Heavy cream: To create that luscious texture.
Sea salt: A sprinkle brings out all those flavors.

Ingredients for the Pie Crust

A flaky crust is key. Gather these ingredients:

All-purpose flour: For structure.
Butter: Cold, unsalted butter ensures a tender crust.
Sugar: Just a touch, to enhance the sweetness.
Ice water: Helps to bring the dough together.

Component Breakdown for the Streusel Topping

The crunchy streusel topping adds a delightful contrast. You will require:

All-purpose flour: The base.
Oats: For texture and chewiness.
Brown sugar: A deeper sweetness.
Cinnamon: To tie the flavors together.
Cold butter: To achieve that crumbly consistency.

Requirements for Fresh Whipped Cream

Finally, don’t skip the fresh whipped cream! You just need:

Heavy cream: Whipped to soft peaks.
Powdered sugar: For a touch of sweetness.
Vanilla extract: Optional, for added flavor.

Equipping yourself with these ingredients will ensure your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is a showstopper. Ready to dive into the baking process? Your friends will love you for it! For more baking tips and ingredient insights, consider checking out Serious Eats for useful advice.

Step-by-step Preparation of Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Making Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is a delightful venture that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin and caramel into a deliciously unique dessert. Ready to roll up your sleeves? Let’s dive into the preparation step by step.

Prepare the pumpkin ganache

The magic of this pie starts with the pumpkin ganache. Here’s how to make it perfectly smooth and rich:

Ingredients Needed:
1 cup of canned pumpkin purée
1 cup of heavy cream
8 ounces of good-quality white chocolate, chopped
1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice
A pinch of salt

In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
Remove from heat and add the chopped white chocolate, stirring until melted and smooth.
Stir in the pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until everything is well combined.
Let the ganache cool to room temperature before using. This base is what makes the milk bar hilly’s pumpkin caramel pie so decadent.

Make the chewy salted caramel

The next step is creating that velvety salted caramel that gives this pie its signature flavor. It’s easier than you might think!

Ingredients Required:
1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon sea salt

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and a splash of water over medium-high heat. Stir gently until the sugar is dissolved.
Once it starts to boil, stop stirring and let it bubble until it turns a deep amber color (this usually takes about 5-10 minutes).
Carefully add the butter and cream, whisking until smooth.
Stir in the sea salt and let cool. You can store any leftover salted caramel in the refrigerator for other sweet treats.

Create the pie crust

A robust crust is the backbone of any great pie. For this milk bar hilly’s pumpkin caramel pie, a deliciously buttery crust is essential.

Crust Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
6-8 tablespoons ice water

In a food processor, pulse together the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water until the dough begins to come together. Form into a disk and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface and fit it into a pie dish, crimping the edges as desired.

Prepare the streusel topping

What’s a pie without a sprinkle of crispy streusel on top? It adds that extra texture and flavor.

Streusel Ingredients:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
1/2 cup oats
A pinch of cinnamon

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon.
Cut in the cold butter until mixture is crumbly.
Set aside while you prepare the next steps.

Assemble the pie

With all components ready, it’s time to put together this masterpiece.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pour the pumpkin ganache into the pie crust, followed by a layer of chewy salted caramel.
Sprinkle the streusel topping over the caramel evenly.

Chill and set the pie

To let all those flavors meld together beautifully, you’ll need to chill the pie.

Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes until the streusel is golden brown.
Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Chilling enhances the flavors of this milk bar hilly’s pumpkin caramel pie, making it irresistible.

And there you have it! A step-by-step guide to creating Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie. This pie is perfect for fall gatherings or any time you want to impress your friends with your baking skills. Trust me; they won’t be able to get enough!

Variations on Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Alternative Crust Options

While the classic crust for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is delightful, experimenting with different crusts can elevate the experience. Consider using:

Graham cracker crust: A sweet and crunchy alternative that adds a nice texture contrast.
Almond flour crust: Great for a gluten-free option, offering a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Cookie crusts: Use crushed cookies like Oreos or gingersnaps for a unique twist.

Each of these alternatives can bring a new dimension to your pie while retaining the essential flavors of fall.

Seasonal Flavor Variations

Don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors! You can enhance the essence of Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie by:

Adding maple syrup to the filling for a deeper sweetness and caramel-like notes.
Mixing in spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to give it a holiday feel.
Swapping pumpkin for sweet potato or even butternut squash for a subtle change in texture and taste.

These variations can make the pie your very own seasonal signature.

Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie can be adapted without losing its charm:

Replace dairy milk with almond or coconut milk for a non-dairy version.
Opt for coconut cream instead of heavy cream to keep it plant-based.
Use maple syrup or agave nectar in place of sugar for a healthier sweetener.

These swaps allow everyone to enjoy this delicious dessert. Plus, if you’re looking for more alternatives, check out resources like EatingWell for nutritious substitution ideas!

Mix and match these variations to create your ideal version of Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie—the possibilities are as endless as your creativity!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Tips for achieving the perfect caramel

Mastering caramel can be a game-changer for your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie. Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to avoid burning, and keep the heat medium to prevent sudden temperature spikes. Stir in a little water to help dissolve the sugar evenly—a technique that can help you achieve that delightful golden color. Remember, caramel can go from perfect to burnt in a matter of seconds, so keep a keen eye on it!

Secrets to a flaky pie crust

For a truly mouthwatering crust, make sure your butter is very cold, even slightly frozen. This will help create those flaky layers we all love. When mixing the dough, be gentle—overworking it can lead to a tough crust. Chill your dough before rolling it out, and don’t forget to sprinkle a little flour on the surface to prevent sticking.

Best practices for storage

If you have leftover pie, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the oven for that fresh-baked taste. For longer storage, consider freezing slices; just wrap them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This way, you can savor the deliciousness of Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie anytime! For tips on freezing baked goods, check out this helpful guide.

Enjoy your baking adventure!

Serving Suggestions for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Presentation Ideas for a Stunning Pie Display

You’ve just baked an incredible Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie, and now it’s time to make it shine on the table! To create an inviting pie display, consider these presentation ideas:

Use a Colored Plate: A dark ceramic or rustic wooden platter can really let those vibrant orange hues pop.
Garnish with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side not only adds a silky texture but also a delightful contrast.
Sprinkle with Toasted Nuts: Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for a lovely crunch that complements the creamy filling.
Group with Seasonal Decor: Place small pumpkins or gourds around the pie for a charming, autumnal vibe.

Flavor Pairings That Enhance the Experience

To elevate your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie even further, think about flavor pairings that elevate each bite. Here are some ideas to consider:

Spiced Coffee or Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced coffee or tea can balance the sweetness beautifully.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup can add another layer of flavor.
Chocolate-Covered Almonds: These can serve as a crunchy side treat that contrasts with the smooth pie.

As you set the table and savor each bite, think about how these pairings can create a memorable experience for you and your guests!

Time Breakdown for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Creating Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is an enjoyable experience that fits perfectly into your cozy fall afternoons. Here’s how to manage your time effectively:

Preparation Time

Plan for about 30 minutes to gather your ingredients and whip up the filling. This includes everything from measuring out your pumpkin puree to prepping your pie crust. Don’t rush it—enjoy the process!

Cooking Time

You’ll need around 50 minutes for the pie to bake to perfection. Keep an eye on it; the aroma will be irresistible, so this part is often the hardest!

Chilling Time

Allow at least 2 hours for chilling. This step is crucial for that delightful texture we all crave from a pumpkin pie.

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at around 3 hours for everything from start to finish. This includes preparation, baking, and chilling. Trust me, it’s worth it for a slice of heaven!

For more detailed tips and other delightful recipes, check out sources like the Food Network or Serious Eats. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Calories per serving

Each slice of Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie contains approximately 350 calories. While that may sound a bit indulgent, it’s a delightful treat worth savoring, especially during the fall season when pumpkin flavors are at their peak!

Breakdown of key nutrients

In addition to calories, this pie delivers a blend of nutrients that can enhance your dessert experience:

Carbohydrates: About 45g, providing energy to keep you active.
Protein: Roughly 3g, helping to satisfy your hunger.
Fats: Approximately 16g, contributing to that rich, creamy texture we love.
Fiber: Around 2g from the pumpkin, promoting digestive health.

Enjoying a slice (or two) in moderation makes this decadent dessert a fabulous addition to your fall gatherings. For more insights on pumpkin’s health benefits, check out resources from credible websites like Healthline or WebMD.

So, the next time you’re at a gathering, consider bringing this Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie—it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser!

FAQs about Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Can I make the pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie a day or two ahead of time can help the flavors develop even further. Once baked, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, a quick reheat in the oven or at room temperature will make it taste just as fresh as the day you made it.

How do I store leftovers?

If you happen to have any leftovers (and that’s a big if!), storing them properly will keep your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie delicious. Slice the pie and place it in an airtight container, or simply cover the pie with plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. For more extended storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in foil and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge before enjoying!

What can I use instead of white chocolate?

If you’d like to swap out white chocolate in this pie, you might try using a high-quality dark chocolate or a creamy butterscotch morsel for different flavor profiles. Both options will give a unique twist to your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie without losing that creamy texture you love. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness to your taste, as dark chocolate can be less sweet compared to white chocolate.

Feel free to share your baking experiences or seek advice in our comments! For an in-depth look at pie-making techniques, you may find this guide helpful here.

Conclusion on Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Recap on Why You Should Try Making This Dessert

Creating Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is not just about following a recipe; it’s about embracing the cozy flavors of fall while impressing friends and family. With its rich layers of pumpkin filling and decadent caramel, each bite offers a delightful experience that’s perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings at home.

Don’t miss out on the chance to tantalize your taste buds and try your hand at this unique dessert. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase your baking skills and share a slice of happiness with loved ones. For more information on pumpkin desserts, check out this resource on pumpkin pie facts. You’ll also find tips on customizing your pie to make it distinctly your own. Embrace the season and give this pie a whirl!