Name: Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 9 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 prebaked pie crust; 1 ½ cups caramel sauce; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1 ½ cans pumpkin puree; 1 cup heavy cream (for ganache); 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 250g white chocolate, roughly chopped; 2 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 1/3 cup rolled oats; 6 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature); 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp ground cardamom; Pinch of salt

Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is an indulgent holiday dessert featuring a rich caramel layer, creamy pumpkin ganache, and crunchy streusel topping. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, this twist on the classic pumpkin pie will leave your guests craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how this pie combines multiple textures and flavors into one decadent dessert. The caramel layer adds a rich, chewy foundation, while the smooth pumpkin ganache offers a creamy and slightly spiced filling. The streusel topping gives the perfect crunch and balance to the soft layers below. It’s an elevated take on the classic pumpkin pie and an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients

1 prebaked pie crust

1 ½ cups caramel sauce

2 cups heavy whipping cream

1 ½ cans pumpkin puree

1 cup heavy cream (for ganache)

4 tbsp unsalted butter

250g white chocolate, roughly chopped

2 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice

¼ tsp salt

½ cup all-purpose flour

1/3 cup brown sugar

1/3 cup rolled oats

6 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)

1 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp ground cardamom

Pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Caramel Layer: Pour the caramel sauce into the prebaked pie crust, spreading it evenly. Place the pie in the fridge for 20-25 minutes to firm up.

Make the Pumpkin Ganache: In a saucepan, combine the 1 cup of heavy cream and butter. Heat until the butter melts, then add the chopped white chocolate. Stir until smooth, then mix in the pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Let this mixture cool to room temperature.

Assemble the Pie: Once the caramel layer has firmed up, pour the cooled pumpkin ganache over it, spreading it evenly. Place the pie back in the fridge and chill for at least 8 hours or overnight, so the ganache firms up.

Make the Streusel: In a bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, oats, butter, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Mix until the dough becomes crumbly. Spread it onto a baking sheet and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden brown. Let it cool.

Top the Pie: Before serving, top the pie with fresh whipped cream and sprinkle the baked streusel on top. Serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 servings

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 9 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

I’ve stuck to the classic caramel and pumpkin flavor profile here, but you can try a few variations to suit your preferences:

Add a touch of ginger or nutmeg to the pumpkin ganache for an extra kick of spice.

Swap out the white chocolate for milk or dark chocolate for a different flavor.

Try using a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust for a more casual take.

Storage/Reheating

This pie is best enjoyed chilled. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat it, I recommend removing the streusel topping, microwaving it on low, and then adding the streusel back before serving to maintain the texture.

Related Recipes:

Peanut Butter Ganache

FAQs

How do I make sure the ganache firms up properly?

To ensure the ganache firms up, it’s essential to allow it to cool completely to room temperature before refrigerating. Chilling it for several hours or overnight is key.

Can I use a homemade pie crust for this recipe?

Yes! A homemade pie crust works just as well as a store-bought one, and it adds a personal touch to the dessert.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making this pie a day ahead, as the flavors have time to meld together and the ganache becomes perfectly set.

How can I make the streusel topping extra crunchy?

For an extra crunchy streusel, bake it a bit longer, checking it halfway to ensure it doesn’t burn. You can also add more oats for a chunkier texture.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree?

I wouldn’t recommend using pre-seasoned pumpkin pie filling, as this recipe uses specific spices. Stick with pure pumpkin puree for the best results.

Conclusion

Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie is a delightful twist on the classic pumpkin pie, combining rich flavors and textures that make each bite a memorable experience. The smooth ganache, chewy caramel layer, and crunchy streusel topping create an ultimate holiday treat that will impress anyone who tries it.

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