As the leaves shift to vibrant shades of orange and gold, I can’t help but crave the warmth of a comforting dessert that captures the spirit of fall. Enter my decadent Pumpkin Caramel Pie, a delightful twist on the classic that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. This recipe seamlessly combines the rich, spiced flavors of pumpkin with a luscious layer of gooey caramel, all nestled beneath a flaky, buttery crust. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a crowd-pleaser even for novice bakers. So, whether you’re looking to impress your friends or simply treat yourself, this pie will elevate your dessert game. Who’s ready to dive into a slice of autumn?

Why Will You Love This Pie?

Decadent Flavor: Each bite of this Pumpkin Caramel Pie offers layers of rich, spiced pumpkin and gooey caramel that will transport your taste buds to cozy fall evenings.

Easy to Prepare: This recipe simplifies the pie-making process, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Stunning Presentation: With a silky white chocolate ganache and delightful streusel topping, it’s as visually impressive as it is delicious.

Ultimate Comfort Food: Pairs wonderfully with warm coffee or hot apple cider, making it a delightful addition to any gathering. Don’t forget to check out my recipe for Pumpkin Cornbread Cinnamon for another seasonal treat!

Make Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and chill to let the flavors meld, saving you time on the big day.

Indulge in this luxurious dessert, and watch it steal the spotlight at your next gathering!

Pumpkin Caramel Pie Ingredients

• Note: Gather these wholesome ingredients to create a delicious Pumpkin Caramel Pie that will impress your guests!

For the Pie Filling

Pure Pumpkin Puree – The foundation of the pie; remember to use pure pumpkin puree instead of pre-spiced filling for the best flavor.
Heavy Cream – Adds richness and creaminess to both the ganache and caramel.
Light Corn Syrup – Helps to sweeten the caramel while keeping it smooth and sticky.
Unsalted Butter – Enhances flavor and gives a lovely texture in both the crust and the caramel.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm, cozy flavors into the filling.
Salt – Balances the sweetness, creating depth in both the ganache and caramel layers.

For the Pie Crust

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the pie crust.
Fine Yellow Cornmeal – Adds a delightful texture to the crust, making it more interesting.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust, creating a nice foundation for the pie.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Aids in gluten development, which is essential for a flaky crust.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes to a rich, tender crust.

For the Topping

White Chocolate – The star ingredient for the silky ganache, so choose high-quality chocolate for optimal flavor.
Rolled Oats – Perfect for adding texture to your streusel topping.
Ground Cinnamon – A classic flavor enhancer for the streusel.
Ground Cardamom – Brings a unique warm spice that elevates the overall taste.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the streusel topping.

Get ready to enjoy a slice of delicious Pumpkin Caramel Pie that captures the essence of fall festivities!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Step 1: Roast the Pumpkin Puree
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Spread 2 cups of pure pumpkin puree evenly in a baking dish and roast for 20–30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the puree should thicken slightly and deepen in color, reducing the moisture content for a rich filling. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Ganache
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/4 cup of light corn syrup, and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, pour it over 8 ounces of finely chopped white chocolate in a mixing bowl. Stir in 1 cup of the cooled pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice until smooth and glossy. Let it cool while you make the caramel.

Step 3: Make the Caramel
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of light corn syrup, and 1/4 cup of water. Cook over medium heat without stirring for about 10–12 minutes until the mixture turns a deep amber color. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, stirring until combined and smooth, then let cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Pie Crust
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of fine yellow cornmeal, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Cut in 1/2 cup of unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and just enough cold water until the dough holds together. Chill for 30 minutes, then roll it out and blind-bake in a 9-inch pie dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Make the Streusel Topping
In a bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of rolled oats, 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom, and a pinch of salt. Use your fingers to combine until crumbly. Spread the streusel on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.

Step 6: Assemble the Pie
Pour the cooled caramel layer into the baked pie crust, spreading it evenly. Chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until the caramel sets. Once set, pour the warm white chocolate ganache over the caramel layer, smoothing it out gently with a spatula for a glossy finish. Return to the refrigerator to chill overnight for the best flavor melding.

Step 7: Serve with Toppings
When ready to serve your decadent Pumpkin Caramel Pie, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of the golden streusel topping. Enjoy chilled with a warm cup of coffee or hot apple cider, embracing the cozy flavors of fall.

What to Serve with Decadent Pumpkin Caramel Pie?

Imagine cozy gatherings filled with laughter, the aroma of baked goods wafting through the air, and a slice of dessert that steals the show.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture offers a beautiful contrast, making each bite of pie even more delightful.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup can enhance the warming spices of the pie and create a perfect pairing for fall evenings.
Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop adds creaminess that perfectly balances the pie’s rich caramel and pumpkin flavors.
Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of extra caramel elevates the dessert experience and adds an indulgent layer to each slice.
Pecan Praline Crumble: The crunchy sweetness complements the smooth filling; consider sprinkling it over the pie for added texture.
Ginger Snap Cookies: They echo the warm spices in the pie and provide a satisfying snap that contrasts beautifully with the creamy softness.
Hot Chocolate: A rich, chocolatey beverage offers a sweet finish and pairs wonderfully with the pie’s decadent flavors.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop melted over warm pie creates a dreamy, melty experience that everyone will adore.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This classic seasonal drink captures the essence of the dessert and enhances the fall experience.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Pumpkin Caramel Pie components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time and stress! You can prepare the pie crust and streusel topping up to 3 days in advance. Simply blind-bake the crust and store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. For the ganache and caramel, you can make them the night before, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully; just refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to assemble, layer the chilled caramel in the crust, pour over the ganache, and allow it to set in the fridge overnight. This way, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert that’s just as delicious with minimal last-minute effort!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Caramel Pie

• Watch the Caramel: Keep a close eye on the caramel; it can go from perfect to burnt quickly. Have the cream ready to add immediately when it’s golden.

• Chill the Dough: For a flaky crust, always use chilled water and vinegar when making the pie dough, and chill it for 30 minutes before baking.

• Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality white chocolate in your ganache—it makes all the difference in flavor for your Pumpkin Caramel Pie.

• Allow it to Set: For maximum flavor, let the pie rest overnight in the fridge. This helps the layers meld together beautifully.

• Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients for the crust or streusel, mix just until combined to avoid a tough texture.

• Customize Your Spices: Feel free to swap ground cardamom for nutmeg or add nuts to the streusel for a personal touch in your Pumpkin Caramel Pie.

Pumpkin Caramel Pie Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Pumpkin Caramel Pie, enhancing flavors and accommodating different palates!

Nutty Streusel: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel for a crunchy texture that complements the gooey caramel.
Dark Chocolate: Replace white chocolate with dark chocolate in the ganache for a richer, more intense flavor profile.
Spiced Crust: Mix in a tablespoon of cinnamon or ginger into the pie crust for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
Caramel Swirls: Drizzle extra caramel on top of the ganache before chilling for eye-catching, luscious swirls.
Fresh Apples: Layer thinly sliced, sweet apples under the caramel for a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with pumpkin and caramel.
Vanilla Bean: Infuse the heavy cream for the ganache with a vanilla bean for a sumptuous, aromatic upgrade.

If you’re in the mood for more seasonal treats, don’t miss out on Pumpkin Cookies Soft or consider a slice of my delightful Peach Pie Cruffins to round out your fall dessert repertoire.

These variations not only spice things up but also make your Pumpkin Caramel Pie uniquely yours!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Caramel Pie

Fridge: Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator and serve cold or let them come to room temperature. Avoid reheating to keep the texture delightful.

Topping Tip: Add whipped cream after thawing for the best texture on your Pumpkin Caramel Pie.

Pumpkin Caramel Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use for the pie?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use pure pumpkin puree, like Libby’s, rather than pre-spiced filling. Pre-spiced options can throw off the delicate balance of flavors in your delicious pie.

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Caramel Pie?
To keep your pie fresh, store it in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy a delightful slice whenever you crave a sweet treat!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Caramel Pie?
Very! Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then cover them with foil or place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply place the slices in the refrigerator overnight, and they’ll be ready to enjoy the next day.

What if my caramel burns while making it?
If your caramel burns, don’t despair! Just start over by adding a little water to the pan and cooking on low to dissolve the burnt bits. Keep a close eye on it, ensuring you whisk in the cream and butter immediately once it reaches a golden caramel color. Practice makes perfect!

Are there any dietary considerations for this pie?
This decadent Pumpkin Caramel Pie includes common allergens like dairy and gluten. For those with dietary restrictions, consider using dairy-free butter and alternative milk for the ganache. If you need a nut-free option, you can skip any nuts in the streusel topping without sacrificing flavor!

How can I make the crust flakier?
For a flakier crust, remember to use chilled butter and water when mixing your dough. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out to ensure the butter stays cold, creating that delightful flaky texture we all love in a pastry!