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Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the filling ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until smooth and fully combined.
- Pour into the crust: Pour the pumpkin filling into the graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly puffed up and the center should still have a slight jiggle.
- Cool the pie: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the pie for at least 2 hours to help the filling set properly.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce
- Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sugar: Stir in the brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble.
- Add cream and salt: Slowly add the heavy cream and a pinch of salt to the pan, whisking continuously until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken. Allow it to simmer for about 3-5 minutes.
- Remove from heat: Stir in the vanilla extract and remove the caramel sauce from the heat. Let it cool slightly before pouring it over the pie.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Top with caramel sauce: Once the pie has cooled and set, pour the caramel sauce over the top of the pumpkin filling. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pie’s surface.
- Refrigerate: Place the pie back in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to allow the caramel to firm up slightly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish (optional): If desired, garnish the pie with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or even some chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) for added texture and flavor.
- Slice and serve: Slice the pie into wedges and serve chilled. Enjoy the layers of smooth pumpkin filling and rich caramel goodness with every bite!
Why This Pumpkin Caramel Pie is a Must-Try
- The Perfect Balance of Flavors: The creamy, spiced pumpkin filling pairs perfectly with the sweet and buttery caramel topping, creating a well-balanced dessert that isn’t overly sweet or too heavy.
- Elegant and Festive: The caramel topping gives this pie a luxurious look, making it the perfect dessert to serve at holiday gatherings, special occasions, or dinner parties.
- Comforting Autumn Dessert: Pumpkin pie is already a favorite fall dessert, but the addition of caramel elevates the flavors, making it an irresistible treat during the cooler months.
Tips and Variations
- Homemade Crust: If you have the time and prefer a homemade crust, you can make one from scratch using crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter. It adds a personal touch to the pie.
- Nutty Twist: Add a bit of texture to your pie by topping it with chopped pecans or walnuts before serving. These nuts pair beautifully with the pumpkin and caramel.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a plant-based butter for the caramel. Additionally, use an egg replacer in the pumpkin filling.
- Extra Spice: If you like your pumpkin pie with a bit of extra spice, increase the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even add a pinch of allspice to enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- With Whipped Cream: This pie is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a dollop of fresh whipped cream, which complements the creamy texture of the filling and the sweet caramel sauce.
- With Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. The cool ice cream contrasts nicely with the warm caramel and pumpkin flavors.
- Coffee Pairing: This pie is the perfect dessert to serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea, making it an ideal treat for cozy fall gatherings.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Caramel Pie is a delightful, decadent dessert that brings together the best flavors of the fall season—smooth, spiced pumpkin and rich, gooey caramel. It’s a perfect twist on the classic pumpkin pie, adding an extra layer of indulgence that will have your guests coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a fall gathering, or simply looking for a comforting dessert, this pie is sure to impress. Try this easy and delicious recipe today, and enjoy the sweet, spiced flavors of autumn in every bite!
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