If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly captures the warm, cozy flavors of fall in one irresistible bite, you’ve got to try Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe. This pie combines that luscious pumpkin puree blended with rich caramel sauce and a silky white chocolate ganache, all nestled in a tender, flavorful crust. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, making it an instant favorite for holiday dinners or anytime you want to indulge in pumpkin delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe lies not only in its incredible taste but in its straightforward, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element works together to build layers of flavor and texture—from the tender crust to the creamy filling and sweet caramel tones that elevate every forkful.
- 1 prebaked pie crust: A crisp and sturdy base that holds all those luscious fillings together perfectly.
- 1 ½ cups caramel sauce: Adds decadent sweetness and a buttery depth that makes the pie unforgettable.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream: Whipped up into a fluffy topping that balances the pumpkin’s richness beautifully.
- 1 ½ cans pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that brings that smooth, earthy pumpkin flavor to the table.
- 1 cup heavy cream (for ganache): Blends with white chocolate to create a silky, creamy topping layer.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps to create a luxuriously smooth ganache texture.
- 250g white chocolate, roughly chopped: Provides a sweet, creamy contrast to the pumpkin and caramel flavors.
- 2 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice: Infuses the pie with that classic cozy spice melody everyone adores.
- ¼ tsp salt: Elevates the sweetness and balances all flavors perfectly.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Essential for the crumble topping, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
- 1/3 cup brown sugar: Adds a molasses note to the topping for extra depth and sweetness.
- 1/3 cup rolled oats: Provides a delightful chew and rustic texture to the crumble topping.
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature): Binds the crumble topping ingredients together perfectly.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Another warm spice to complement the pumpkin pie spice in the crumble topping.
- ½ tsp ground cardamom: Adds a subtle aromatic nuance to the topping that’s a game changer.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness in the crumble and enhances flavor complexity.
How to Make Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crumble Topping
Start by combining the flour, brown sugar, rolled oats, cinnamon, cardamom, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Cut in the softened butter with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture becomes crumbly but holds together when pressed. This topping will add a beautiful texture and warming spices that pair perfectly with the smooth pie filling.
Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and caramel sauce. This mixture is the heart of Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe. The caramel’s buttery sweetness complements the pumpkin’s earthy flavor, while the spices bring everything home with that signature fall vibe.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the pumpkin and caramel filling into your prebaked pie crust. Smooth the top gently, then sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the surface. This creates an inviting contrast of creamy and crunchy in every bite.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-50 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Let it cool completely; this resting time lets the flavors meld and the filling to firm up beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare the White Chocolate Ganache
While the pie cools, gently heat the heavy cream and butter until just simmering. Pour this warm mixture over the roughly chopped white chocolate, letting it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth and glossy. This ganache adds a luxuriously creamy, sweet layer that takes Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe to a whole new level of indulgence.
Step 6: Final Touches
Pour the white chocolate ganache over the cooled pie, spreading it evenly. Chill in the refrigerator until the ganache sets, about 2 hours. This finishing touch makes the pie not only delicious but visually stunning.
How to Serve Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh whipped cream dotted with a light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of crushed toasted pecans makes a perfect garnish for this pie. The crunch and creaminess add dimension, enhancing the flavors without overpowering the delicate balance we love in Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of spiced chai or freshly brewed coffee. For a more decadent spread, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a small bowl of candied nuts to complement its rich sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving mini versions in individual ramekins topped with caramel drizzle and a little toasted oat crumble for a crowd-pleasing twist. Alternatively, place a slice on a rustic wooden board with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce around the plate for a beautiful, inviting presentation that screams fall festivities.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe keeps beautifully when wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the pie by wrapping it well in foil and plastic wrap to protect against freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve the texture and taste.
Reheating
If you prefer your pie slightly warmed, heat individual slices gently in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 10-15 minutes, but be careful not to melt the ganache too much. Alternatively, room temperature slices are lovely and let all the flavors stay perfectly balanced.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin puree or should I make it fresh?
Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly for Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe. It delivers consistent texture and flavor, making it super convenient without sacrificing any deliciousness.
Is the crust homemade or store-bought in this recipe?
Either works well! Using a prebaked pie crust saves time and ensures a crisp base, but making your own buttery crust can add an extra personal touch if you have the time.
Can I substitute dark chocolate for the white chocolate ganache?
You can, but it will change the flavor profile. White chocolate gives a creamy, sweet contrast that beautifully balances the pumpkin and caramel. Dark chocolate will add bitterness, so if you prefer that, consider adding more sugar elsewhere to maintain harmony.
What’s the best way to make the caramel sauce from scratch?
For a simple homemade caramel, gently melt sugar until amber, then stir in butter and heavy cream carefully. Take it slow to avoid burning and get that perfect smooth, buttery sauce essential for this pie.
Can I prepare any parts of the pie in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crumble topping and ganache ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake the pie on the day you plan to serve for the freshest flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you want to wow your friends and family with a dessert that spells autumn in every bite, don’t hesitate to make Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe your go-to. With its perfect balance of creamy pumpkin, indulgent caramel, and a crisp crumble topping, it’s a true showstopper that invites warmth and joy to the table. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 9 hours 30 minutes (includes cooling and chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is a decadent fall dessert featuring a buttery prebaked crust layered with luscious pumpkin caramel filling and topped with a creamy white chocolate ganache. This dessert blends the warm autumn spices of pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and cardamom with rich caramel and white chocolate to create a perfect cozy treat ideal for gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Crust and Crumble Topping
- 1 prebaked pie crust
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup rolled oats
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cardamom
- Pinch of salt
Pumpkin Caramel Filling
- 1 ½ cups caramel sauce
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 ½ cans pumpkin puree (approximately 21 oz total)
- 2 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ tsp salt
White Chocolate Ganache
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 250g white chocolate, roughly chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the crumble topping: In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, rolled oats, cinnamon, cardamom, and a pinch of salt. Add 6 tablespoons of room temperature unsalted butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.
- Make the pumpkin caramel filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and caramel sauce until well combined. Gradually add heavy whipping cream, stirring continuously to incorporate and create a smooth filling.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the pumpkin caramel filling into the prebaked pie crust, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the prepared crumble topping evenly over the filling.
- Bake the pie: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled pie on the center rack and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes or until the crumble topping is golden brown and the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare white chocolate ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and unsalted butter over medium heat just until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the roughly chopped white chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let stand for 2 minutes, then stir gently until smooth and glossy.
- Top the pie: Once the pie has cooled to room temperature, drizzle or spread the white chocolate ganache over the top. Refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to allow the ganache to set before serving.
- Serve and enjoy: Slice the pumpkin caramel pie into 8 servings and enjoy the rich flavors of caramel and spiced pumpkin with creamy white chocolate atop.
Notes
- For best results, use a high-quality caramel sauce or make your own homemade caramel.
- You can use canned pumpkin puree or fresh cooked and pureed pumpkin if preferred.
- If you want a crispier crumble, you can toast the topping separately in a pan before applying.
- Ganache should be poured at room temperature to avoid melting the pie filling.
- Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Bring pie to room temperature before serving for the best flavor profile.
