How to Make Hilly’s Famous Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Table of Contents
How to Make Hilly’s Famous Pumpkin Pie Recipe
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to change, the familiar aroma of pumpkin spice signals the arrival of the holiday season. At the heart of this cozy tradition is Hilly’s Famous Pumpkin Pie, a beloved recipe that has become a staple on Thanksgiving tables across the country. This decadent dessert is a masterful blend of buttery crust, creamy pumpkin filling, and a symphony of warm seasonal flavors.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the world of homemade pies, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of creating Hilly’s signature pumpkin pie. From the flaky homemade crust to the rich pumpkin ganache and salted caramel layers, every component of this recipe has been carefully crafted to deliver an unparalleled taste experience. With a few simple techniques and high-quality ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a pumpkin pie that will become a cherished family tradition.
Introduction
Pumpkin pie has long been a beloved fall dessert and holiday tradition, known for its warm spices, creamy texture, and comforting flavors. Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie recipe is a particularly revered version of this seasonal favorite. The recipe has been passed down and refined over time, resulting in a perfectly balanced pumpkin pie that appeals to a wide audience.
With its velvety pumpkin filling, buttery crust, and optional toppings like whipped cream or cinnamon sugar, Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie embodies the essence of autumn and is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their holiday dessert spread. This comfort food classic has become a staple on Thanksgiving tables and Christmas celebrations alike, representing the cozy and nostalgic flavors of the fall season.
| Pumpkin Pie Fact | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Hilly’s Pumpkin Caramel Pie Popularity | Has made a big splash in Thanksgiving desserts |
| Milk Bar Pumpkin Pie Recipe Yield | 12 pumpkin pie dessert bars |
| Milk Bar Pumpkin Pie Serving Size | One bar |
| Milk Bar Pumpkin Pie Total Cooking Time | 1 hour and 15 minutes |
| Pumpkin Pie Shelf Life | 4-5 days in the fridge, or up to 1 month if frozen |
Whether enjoyed as a standalone dessert or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie is a true fall classic that captures the essence of the season and brings joy to those who indulge in its delectable flavors.
Ingredients for Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie Recipe
To bake Hilly’s famous pumpkin pie, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Start with a 9-inch homemade pie crust or a store-bought one. For the luscious filling, you’ll require 1 1/2 cups of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of evaporated milk, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Don’t forget the 2 large eggs and a blend of warm spices, including 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. To enhance the flavors, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
For the finishing touch, consider topping your pumpkin pie with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. With these simple yet delicious ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to baking Hilly’s signature pumpkin pie.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making hilly’s pumpkin pie
Creating Hilly’s famous pumpkin pie recipe is a delightful autumn baking adventure. Whether you’re making a homemade pie crust or using a store-bought version, the key steps to assembling this classic dessert are easy to follow.
Preparing the Pie Crust
If you’re starting with a homemade pie crust, be sure to prebake it at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This helps ensure a crisp, flaky base for the pumpkin filling. For a store-bought crust, simply unroll it into a pie dish and you’re ready to move on to the next step.
Creating the Pumpkin Pie Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of pumpkin puree, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar until fully combined. Then, add 1 cup of evaporated milk and 2 large eggs, one at a time, while continuing to whisk gently. Finally, stir in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the filling is smooth and creamy.
Assembling and Baking the Pie
Pour the pumpkin pie filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Bake the pie at 350°F for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least an hour to ensure the custard sets properly.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pumpkin Puree | 1 1/2 cups |
| Granulated Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Evaporated Milk | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Ginger | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | A pinch |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
Tips for Perfecting Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie
To ensure your Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie turns out perfectly, be mindful of a few key tips. First, avoid overbaking the pie, as this can cause the filling to crack and dry out. The center should have a gentle jiggle when the pie is removed from the oven, as it will continue to set as it cools.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Secondly, be sure to measure the ingredients precisely, as baking is a science and too much or too little of certain components can affect the texture and flavor. Overblending the filling can also result in a dense, heavy pie, so be gentle when mixing.
Personalizing the Recipe
For personalization, you can adjust the spices to your liking, adding a bit more cinnamon or a pinch of cloves for a spicier pie. Additionally, consider serving the pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
By following these simple tips, you can achieve a perfectly baked pumpkin pie that showcases the classic flavors of fall. Experiment with baking techniques and recipe variations to find your own signature pumpkin pie style.
Storing and Serving Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie
Once your delectable Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie has completely cooled, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep it fresh, simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. For longer-term preservation, the pie can be frozen for up to two months. To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
Refrigerating the Pie
Storing your pumpkin pie in the refrigerator is a great way to enjoy it over the next few days. The cold temperature will help maintain the pie’s texture and prevent it from drying out. Be sure to cover the pie with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to lock in freshness.
Freezing Tips
If you want to make Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie a true make-ahead dessert, you can freeze it for up to two months. To do this, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in a layer of aluminum foil. When you’re ready to serve it, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before slicing.
| Storage Method | Maximum Duration | Thawing Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | N/A |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Thaw in refrigerator overnight, bring to room temperature before serving. |
By properly storing your Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie, you can enjoy the rich, creamy flavors long after baking. Whether you opt to refrigerate or freeze the pie, it’s a versatile and convenient make-ahead dessert that will impress your guests.
Making the Caramel Base
One of the standout features that sets Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie apart is the homemade salted pumpkin pie caramel layer nestled at the bottom of the pie. This decadent caramel provides a rich, indulgent contrast to the creamy pumpkin filling above it.
To craft the perfect homemade caramel base, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients: 1 cup of white sugar, ⅓ cup of heavy cream, 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, ¼ cup of water, and 2 tablespoons of corn syrup. The key is to combine these elements in a saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture transforms into a deep golden salted caramel hue – a process that typically takes 8-10 minutes.
Once the caramel has reached the desired color, remove the pan from the heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream, butter, and a pinch of kosher salt. The resulting silky, salted caramel layer provides an irresistible contrast to the pumpkin pie filling that will be poured on top.
Creating the Pie Dough
Crafting the perfect homemade pie crust is essential for Hilly’s renowned Pumpkin Pie. To begin, you’ll need to prepare the dough, which serves as the foundation for this delectable dessert.
Forming the Dough and Letting it Rest
Start by combining all-purpose flour, fine ground cornmeal, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Cut in cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles a coarse meal with pea-sized butter pieces. Next, add ice water and a splash of apple cider vinegar, gently mixing until the dough just comes together. Shape the dough into a smooth disc, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
Rolling and Baking the Pie Crust
When ready to use, roll out the chilled homemade pie crust into a circle slightly larger than your pie tin. Carefully transfer the dough to the tin and crimp the edges to create a decorative finish. To ensure a perfectly baked pie crust, blind bake the shell at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, removing the weights during the last 15-20 minutes to allow the center to cook through.
With the dough preparation complete, you’re well on your way to creating Hilly’s iconic Pumpkin Pie. The next step is to whip up the luscious pumpkin ganache filling.
Preparing the Pumpkin Ganache
The pumpkin ganache is a delightful component of Hilly’s famous pumpkin pie recipe, adding a rich, creamy texture and intensifying the pumpkin flavor. To create this luxurious layer, we’ll first focus on roasting the pumpkin puree to deepen its taste, then combine it with a velvety white chocolate ganache.
Roasting the Pumpkin Puree
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Spread the pumpkin puree evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast the puree in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, until the color has darkened, and the volume has reduced by about a third. This simple step helps to concentrate and enhance the pumpkin flavor, setting the stage for the decadent ganache.
Combining the Ganache Ingredients
In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/4 cup of corn syrup, and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once the mixture is simmering, remove it from the heat and pour it over 8 ounces of chopped white chocolate. Let the chocolate sit for a minute, then stir until a smooth, velvety ganache forms.
Finally, whisk the roasted pumpkin puree and a blend of warm spices, such as 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon each of nutmeg and cloves, into the ganache until well combined. The result is a luscious pumpkin ganache that will elevate your pumpkin pie to new heights.
Assembling the Layers
Creating Hilly’s famous pumpkin pie is a delightful layering process that results in a truly indulgent dessert. To begin, start with the pre-baked pie crust. Carefully pour the homemade salted caramel into the crust, spreading it into an even layer. This caramel base will add a rich, gooey foundation to the pie.
Next, it’s time to add the velvety pumpkin ganache. Smooth the ganache over the caramel layer, ensuring an even surface. The combination of the sweet caramel and the creamy ganache creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Prepare a batch of fresh whipped cream and spread it evenly over the ganache layer. This creamy topping will balance the richness of the caramel and ganache, providing a light and airy contrast.
- If desired, you can add a homemade streusel crumb topping for an extra layer of texture and crunch.
Once the pumpkin pie assembly is complete, refrigerate the pie for at least an hour to allow the layers to set. This multi-layered approach creates a truly indulgent and visually stunning layered dessert that is sure to impress your guests.
Conclusion
Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to elevate their autumn and holiday dessert offerings. With its homemade pie crust, creamy pumpkin filling, salted caramel, and whipped cream layers, this recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic pumpkin pie. By following the step-by-step instructions and incorporating the expert tips provided, you can create a show-stopping pumpkin pie that is sure to become a new family tradition.
Whether you’re baking for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply enjoying the cozy flavors of the season, Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie is a recipe worth adding to your repertoire. The combination of a flaky crust, rich pumpkin filling, and decadent toppings make this fall dessert a true showstopper, sure to impress your guests and become a new holiday favorite.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and let the aroma of Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie fill your kitchen. With each bite, you’ll savor the perfect balance of spices, creamy pumpkin, and the irresistible layers of caramel and whipped cream. Indulge in the flavors of the season and create a new holiday baking tradition with this exceptional recipe.
