Caramel Cream Pie Recipe

Caramel Cream Pie Recipe

Introduction

There’s something truly magical about the combination of rich caramel, smooth cream, and a buttery crust.

This Caramel Cream Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a masterpiece that combines the sweetness of caramel with the softness of creamy filling, all resting atop a perfectly baked crust.

Ideal for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or just as a treat after a long day, this pie brings comfort and indulgence to the table.

The layers of flavor and texture are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone just starting out, this Caramel Cream Pie recipe is designed to be accessible and rewarding.

With a few essential ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery.

Follow along with our detailed instructions, and by the end, you’ll have a stunning caramel cream pie that’s bound to become a family favorite.

Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and discover how easy it can be to create something truly special!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Creamy Filling:

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup whole milk

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon cornstarch

3 large egg yolks

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Layer:

1 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup water

3/4 cup heavy cream, warmed

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for a salted caramel twist)

For Garnishing:

Whipped cream

Extra caramel drizzle

Crushed nuts (like pecans or walnuts) or chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits with the sugar and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

Press the Crust: Pour the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan and press it firmly along the bottom and up the sides to form an even layer.

Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling

Heat the Milk and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk over medium heat until it starts to steam. Avoid boiling.

Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth and pale.

Temper the Eggs: Gradually add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the egg mixture while continuously whisking. This helps to bring the temperature of the eggs up without scrambling them.

Combine and Thicken: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Chill the Filling: Pour the creamy filling into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (placing it directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate for about 1 hour.

Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Layer

Make the Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium-high heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let it cook until it turns a deep amber color.

Add the Cream and Butter: Carefully add the warmed heavy cream to the caramel (it will bubble up vigorously), then add the butter and stir until smooth. If you’re making salted caramel, add the sea salt at this stage.

Cool the Caramel: Let the caramel cool slightly before assembling the pie.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Spread the Creamy Filling: Once the crust is cooled and the creamy filling is set, spread the filling evenly over the crust.

Add the Caramel Layer: Pour the cooled caramel sauce over the creamy layer, using a spatula to spread it evenly.

Chill the Pie: Place the assembled pie in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until fully set. This will make it easier to slice and serve.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Add the Whipped Cream: Top the pie with dollops of whipped cream around the edges or pipe it in a decorative pattern.

Drizzle with Extra Caramel: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle a bit more caramel over the whipped cream.

Optional Garnishes: Sprinkle crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or a light dusting of sea salt on top for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

There you have it—a Caramel Cream Pie that’s as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat.

Each slice offers a perfect balance of buttery crust, creamy filling, and luscious caramel, making every bite an experience in itself.

This pie is perfect for making memories with loved ones, as the rich flavors and beautiful presentation are sure to impress.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging your sweet tooth, this Caramel Cream Pie is sure to become a favorite.

Serve it with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of milk, and savor each heavenly bite. Enjoy!