Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
This Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the warmth of spiced pumpkin with rich caramel and creamy white chocolate. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy evening at home, this pie stands out with its unique layers of flavor and texture. The decadent combination of pumpkin ganache, salted caramel, and a crunchy streusel topping makes it an irresistible dessert that will impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The blend of spiced pumpkin and white chocolate creates a rich and satisfying taste experience.
- Versatile Occasion: Ideal for Thanksgiving, family gatherings, or any special occasion where dessert is a must.
- Layered Texture: Enjoy contrasting textures with the creamy filling, velvety caramel, and crunchy streusel topping.
- Satisfying Sweetness: The balance of sweetness from the caramel and the spice from pumpkin keeps everyone coming back for more.
- Easy to Follow: Clear step-by-step instructions make it simple enough for bakers of all skill levels.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin whipping up this delicious pie, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Pie dish
- Saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients properly without spills or messes.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.
- Whisk: Helps achieve smooth mixtures, especially when combining heavy cream and sugar.
- Pie dish: A sturdy dish ensures even baking and holds the pie beautifully.

Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Filling
- 2 (15-ounce) cans Pumpkin Puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling or mix)
- 1 1/4 cups Heavy Cream
- 1/3 cup Corn Syrup (scant)
- 5 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 12 to 16 ounces White Chocolate (2 to 2 1/2 cups high-quality white chocolate)
- 3 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
For the Salted Caramel
- 1 cup White Sugar
- 1/3 cup Heavy Cream
- 6 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1/4 cup Water
- 2 Tablespoons Corn Syrup
- 1 teaspoon Salt (up to 2 teaspoons of salt to taste)
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
For the Pie Crust
- 1 1/2 cups Flour
- 12 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1/2 cup Fine Ground Cornmeal
- 1 Tablespoon White Sugar (heaping)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup Ice Cold Water
- 1 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup Flour
- 1/3 cup Light Brown Sugar
- 1/3 cup Rolled Oats
- 6 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon Cardamom
- pinch of salt
For the Whipped Cream Topping
- 2 cups Heavy Cream
- 3 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar
How to Make Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, white sugar, and salt. Cut in unsalted butter until the mixture is crumbly. Add ice cold water and apple cider vinegar gradually until it forms a dough. Press into a pie dish and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 2: Make the Salted Caramel
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup. Stir until dissolved. Allow it to boil without stirring until it turns an amber color. Carefully add heavy cream followed by unsalted butter and salt. Stir continuously until smooth.
Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
In another bowl, melt white chocolate over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, corn syrup, melted butter, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well-combined. Fold in melted white chocolate.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Pour the pumpkin filling into the pre-baked crust. Drizzle salted caramel over the top before placing it in the oven for about 30 minutes.
Step 5: Make the Streusel Topping
In a bowl, mix flour, light brown sugar, rolled oats, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and cold butter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over baked pumpkin filling after it has cooled slightly.
Step 6: Prepare Whipped Cream
Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Serve on top of each slice when ready to enjoy your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie!
How to Serve Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
Serving Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is as delightful as making it. This pie, with its rich layers of pumpkin and caramel, pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the dense pie filling perfectly.
Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce
- For those who love sweetness, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce on top enhances the dessert experience.
Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast that balances the spiced flavors.
Topped with Toasted Nuts
- Sprinkling some toasted pecans or walnuts on top gives an added crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with pumpkin.
With a Side of Fruit Compote
- A tart berry or apple compote can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the pie, making each bite exciting.
How to Perfect Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
Perfecting this pie can elevate your dessert game. Here are some tips to ensure your Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie turns out deliciously every time.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality white chocolate and pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor.
- Chill Your Cream: Make sure your heavy cream is very cold when whipping; this will help it hold its shape better.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pie while baking. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so aim for just set.
- Taste Your Caramel: Adjust the salt in your caramel sauce according to your preference; it should balance sweet and salty.
- Let it Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes serving easier.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the pumpkin pie spice blend according to your taste preferences for a personal touch.
Best Side Dishes for Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
Pairing side dishes with Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie can elevate your dessert table. Here are some excellent options that complement this delicious treat.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider brings cozy autumn flavors that harmonize well with pumpkin.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts creates a nice contrast to the sweetness of the pie.
- Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: These sweet treats add another layer of indulgence that pairs perfectly with pumpkin flavors.
- Maple Glazed Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and earthy flavor beautifully complement the richness of the pie.
- Chilled Cranberry Salad: A refreshing cranberry salad provides tartness that balances the richness of the dessert.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth mashed potatoes offer comfort and pair well with any holiday meal setting where this pie is served.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring the crust: A soggy or improperly baked crust can ruin your pie. Ensure you follow the crust instructions precisely and pre-bake it if necessary.
- Using pumpkin pie filling: Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling. This will give your pie the right texture and flavor.
- Overcooking the caramel: Caramel can quickly go from perfect to burnt. Watch it carefully and remove it from heat as soon as it reaches a rich amber color.
- Skipping the chilling time: Allow your pie to chill properly before serving. This helps set the filling and enhances flavors.
- Neglecting the toppings: The streusel and whipped cream are essential for texture and presentation. Don’t skip or skimp on these components.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Keep the pie covered with plastic wrap for maximum freshness.
Freezing Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- The pie can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the pie for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe?
Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe is a delicious dessert featuring a spiced pumpkin white chocolate ganache, layered with salted caramel, topped with fresh whipped cream, and finished with a crunchy streusel.
How long does it take to make Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe?
The total time is approximately 2 hours, including prep and baking time. It’s worth every minute for such a delightful treat!
Can I customize Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! You can adjust spices or try different toppings like nuts or chocolate shavings for added flavor and texture.
How do I ensure my pie crust is perfect?
To achieve a great crust, make sure your butter is cold, avoid overworking the dough, and consider chilling it before rolling out.
Final Thoughts
The Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe combines rich flavors and textures that are sure to impress everyone. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating your own version of this delightful dessert!
Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
Indulge in the delightful experience of Milk Bar Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie, a dessert that beautifully marries the warmth of spiced pumpkin with a luscious caramel layer and creamy white chocolate. This pie is designed to impress at any gathering, from cozy family dinners to festive holiday celebrations. With its unique combination of textures—a creamy filling, rich caramel drizzle, and a crunchy streusel topping—this pie is not just visually appealing but also an absolute treat for the taste buds. Each slice offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it an irresistible addition to your dessert repertoire.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 (15-ounce) cans Pumpkin Puree
- 1 1/4 cups Heavy Cream
- 1/3 cup Corn Syrup
- 5 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 12 to 16 ounces White Chocolate
- 3 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup White Sugar
- 1/3 cup Heavy Cream
- 6 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1/4 cup Water
- 2 Tablespoons Corn Syrup
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 1 1/2 cups Flour
- 12 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1/2 cup Fine Ground Cornmeal
- 1 Tablespoon White Sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup Ice Cold Water
- 1 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1/2 cup Flour
- 1/3 cup Light Brown Sugar
- 1/3 cup Rolled Oats
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon Cardamom
- pinch of salt
- 2 cups Heavy Cream
- 3 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, white sugar, and salt. Cut in unsalted butter until the mixture is crumbly. Add ice cold water and apple cider vinegar gradually until it forms a dough. Press into a pie dish and bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup. Stir until dissolved. Allow it to boil without stirring until it turns an amber color. Carefully add heavy cream followed by unsalted butter and salt. Stir continuously until smooth.
- In another bowl, melt white chocolate over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, corn syrup, melted butter, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well-combined. Fold in melted white chocolate.
- Pour the pumpkin filling into the pre-baked crust. Drizzle salted caramel over the top before placing it in the oven for about 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix flour, light brown sugar, rolled oats, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and cold butter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over baked pumpkin filling after it has cooled slightly.
- Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Serve on top of each slice when ready to enjoy your Milk Bar Hilly's Pumpkin Caramel Pie!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (125g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
