Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie: A Step-by-Step Guide

Autumn’s arrival brings with it a symphony of cozy flavors, and few desserts capture that essence quite like the Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie. This isn’t your grandma’s pumpkin pie; it’s a sophisticated, elevated take on a classic, boasting a creamy pumpkin custard swirled with a decadent, rich caramel. Imagine the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, creamy and crunchy, all nestled within a buttery, flaky crust. This recipe, meticulously crafted to replicate the beloved Milk Bar creation, promises a dessert experience that will leave you breathless. Prepare yourself for a journey into the world of pumpkin pie perfection, where every bite is a taste of autumnal bliss. This isn’t just a pie; it’s a culinary masterpiece waiting to be created in your own kitchen. Let’s embark on this delicious adventure together and create a pie that will be the star of your next autumnal gathering.

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 sparks conversation, elicits gasps of delight, and leaves everyone wanting more. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore making and sharing this masterpiece:

• Unforgettable Flavor Combination: The harmonious blend of spicy pumpkin custard and intensely sweet, buttery caramel is simply divine. It’s a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate, creating a truly memorable taste experience.
• Impressive Presentation: This pie isn’t just delicious; it’s stunning. The beautiful swirl of caramel within the creamy pumpkin filling makes it a showstopper dessert, perfect for Thanksgiving, fall gatherings, or any special occasion. It’s a dessert that will impress even the most discerning dessert aficionados. Check out some amazing ideas on my Pinterest board for serving suggestions!
• Perfectly Balanced Texture: The flaky, buttery crust provides a delightful contrast to the smooth, creamy filling. Each bite offers a delightful interplay of textures that elevate the overall eating experience.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: While the process involves several steps, many can be prepared in advance. This allows you to enjoy the process without the last-minute stress, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable baking experience. You can even prepare the crust a day or two ahead.
• Shareable Delight: This pie is generously sized, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to become a cherished part of your autumnal traditions.

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

Beyond the undeniable deliciousness, there are several compelling reasons to add this Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie to your baking repertoire. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a culinary adventure:

• Impress Your Guests: This stunning pie is guaranteed to wow your friends and family. It’s the perfect dessert to elevate any gathering, from casual get-togethers to formal celebrations. Imagine their faces when you present this beautiful creation!
• Master a Classic: Learning to make a complex dessert like this boosts your baking skills significantly. You’ll gain valuable experience in working with various techniques and ingredients, improving your overall culinary abilities. It’s a great recipe to showcase your baking prowess!
• Perfect for Fall Baking: This pie is the quintessential fall dessert. It embodies the spirit of the season, making it ideal for Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or simply enjoying a cozy night in.
• Recipe Customization: While we provide a detailed recipe, feel free to experiment and personalize it to your preferences. Add a sprinkle of pecans, use different spices, or even try a gluten-free crust – the possibilities are endless!
• Worth the Effort: Yes, this recipe requires time and attention, but the final result is undeniably worth the effort. The taste, texture, and visual appeal of this pie are unparalleled, making it a true culinary triumph.

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

Gathering the right ingredients and tools is crucial for creating a perfect Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie. Let’s ensure you have everything you need for a seamless baking experience.

Ingredients: A Detailed Breakdown

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Granulated sugar is essential for the caramel’s texture.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the caramel.
• ½ cup light corn syrup: Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization.
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness.

For the Pumpkin Custard:

• 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree: Use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
• 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk: Evaporated milk contributes to the custard’s creamy texture.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs bind the custard and add richness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and spice.
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger: Ginger provides a subtle, warming flavor.
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves: Cloves add a touch of complexity and spice.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Nutmeg adds another layer of warmth and spice.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sugar sweetens the custard and balances the spices.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavors.

For the Crust:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for a classic pie crust.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the crust.
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed: Chilled butter is key for a flaky crust.
• ¼ cup vegetable shortening, chilled and cubed: Shortening adds tenderness to the crust.
• ¼ cup ice water: Ice water helps keep the butter cold and prevents a tough crust.

Necessary Utensils: Your Baking Arsenal

• 9-inch pie plate: A standard 9-inch pie plate is perfect for this recipe.
• Heavy-bottomed saucepan: A heavy-bottomed saucepan is ideal for making the caramel.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for smoothly incorporating ingredients.
• Mixing bowls: Several mixing bowls of different sizes will be helpful.
• Pastry blender or fork: For cutting the butter and shortening into the flour.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are vital for baking.
• Rubber spatula: A rubber spatula is great for scraping down the sides of bowls.
• Rolling pin: For rolling out the pie crust.
• Parchment paper: For easy cleanup.
• Large baking sheet: To bake the pie on.

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

Now for the fun part – let’s bake! Follow these steps carefully to create the perfect Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie.

Step 1: Making the Caramel

1. Combine butter and sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. **Stir constantly** until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
2. Continue cooking, without stirring, until the mixture turns a rich amber color. **This is crucial for a good caramel.**
3. Carefully whisk in the heavy cream and corn syrup. **Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble vigorously.**
4. Stir in the salt and let the caramel cool slightly.

Step 2: Preparing the Pumpkin Custard

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, sugar, and salt in a large bowl until smooth.

Step 3: Creating 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 ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. **Do not overmix.**
4. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and transfer to the pie plate.
6. Trim and crimp the edges.

Step 4: Assembling and Baking the Pie

1. Pour half of the pumpkin custard into the pie crust.
2. Drizzle half of the cooled caramel over the custard.
3. Repeat with the remaining custard and caramel, creating a swirl effect.
4. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. **Cover the edges with foil if they start to brown too quickly.**
5. Let the pie cool completely before serving. This allows the filling to set properly.

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

While this recipe provides a classic approach, there’s always room for creativity and adjustments. Here are some helpful tips and variations to customize your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie:

• Spice it Up: Experiment with different spice combinations. Add a pinch of allspice, cardamom, or even a hint of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
• Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped pecans, walnuts, or pepitas into the filling for added texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Crust: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for pie crusts. Ensure you follow the instructions on the gluten-free flour blend package. You can find some great gluten-free pie crust recipes online.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use a vegan butter alternative for the crust and caramel, and substitute the eggs in the custard with flax eggs or applesauce. Many vegan pumpkin pie recipes offer great substitutes.
• Make it Ahead: The pie crust can be made a day or two in advance. The assembled pie can be baked and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Avoid Overbaking: Overbaking can lead to a dry pie. Start checking for doneness around 50 minutes and use a toothpick or knife to determine if it’s fully baked.

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

While this pie is undeniably indulgent, it does offer some nutritional benefits thanks to its key ingredients. Note that these values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Pumpkin Puree: A great source of Vitamin A, beta-carotene, and fiber. It’s also rich in antioxidants and contributes to a healthy gut.

Cinnamon: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

Disclaimer: This pie is high in sugar, fat, and calories and should be enjoyed 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

Creating the Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is a journey, a testament to the artistry of baking. The result? An unforgettable dessert that transcends the ordinary. From the flaky crust to the creamy custard and the rich caramel swirl, every element contributes to a harmonious and breathtakingly delicious whole. This recipe isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about embracing the process, savoring the aromas, and sharing the joy of creating something truly special. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let the magic of autumnal baking unfold. Don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below, and let us know how your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie turned out! For more amazing recipes, check out my other posts on Noeli’s Recipes Blog. You might also enjoy this Basque Cheesecake recipe or this amazing Empanada recipe.

Milk Bar's Hilly's Pumpkin Caramel Pie

A decadent pumpkin pie with a luscious caramel topping, perfect for fall gatherings. This recipe features a buttery, flaky crust and a creamy, spiced pumpkin filling.

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

• 1 cup (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
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted butter, chilled cubed
• 1/4 cup Vegetable shortening, chilled cubed
• 1/4 cup Ice water

Equipment

• 9-inch pie plate
• Mixing Bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Pastry blender or fork
• Rolling pin

Method

 

Instructions

1. Make the crust: Whisk together flour and salt. Cut in butter and shortening using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Roll out the dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork and chill for 15 minutes.
3. Blind bake the crust: Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Remove weights and parchment and bake for another 5-7 minutes, until lightly golden.
4. Make the caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns a light amber color. Carefully whisk in heavy cream and corn syrup. Stir in salt. Remove from heat.
5. Make the pumpkin custard: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
6. Pour the caramel into the pre-baked pie crust. Pour the pumpkin custard over the caramel.
7. Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-55 minutes, or until the custard is set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
8. Cool completely on a wire rack 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 before baking.