Pumpkin Caramel Pie

### Instructions: How to Make Pumpkin Caramel Pie

#### Step 1: Make the Pie Crust
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring with a fork until the dough begins to come together.
4. Once the dough has formed, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times to bring it together.
5. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. After chilling, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press it into the dish and trim any excess dough. Crimp the edges as desired.
7. Refrigerate the pie crust while you prepare the filling.

#### Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Filling
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Mix until the filling is smooth and well combined.
3. Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust.

#### Step 3: Bake the Pie
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the pie on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted into the filling comes out clean.
3. Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature, and then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set the filling.

#### Step 4: Make the Caramel Sauce
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved and turned a golden amber color.
2. Add the butter and stir until fully combined.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream (it will bubble up), and stir until the mixture is smooth.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat and allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before drizzling it over the pie.

#### Step 5: Assemble the Pie
1. Once the pie has cooled and set, drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the top of the pumpkin filling.
2. Optionally, top with a dollop of whipped cream or whipped topping for an extra touch of indulgence.
3. Serve the pie chilled or at room temperature.

### Why You’ll Love Pumpkin Caramel Pie

– **Irresistible Flavor:** The creamy pumpkin filling, combined with the smooth caramel sauce, creates a dessert that’s both comforting and luxurious.
– **Perfect for Fall and Holidays:** This pie is a great way to celebrate the flavors of autumn with a twist on the classic pumpkin pie. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall gathering.
– **Easy to Make:** While this pie has a few steps, they are simple and manageable. You can prepare the crust and filling in advance, making it a great dessert for busy holiday meal planning.

### Final Thoughts

Pumpkin Caramel Pie is a stunning dessert that combines the classic flavor of pumpkin with the decadence of caramel. Whether served as the centerpiece of a holiday dinner or as a sweet treat for any occasion, this pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its rich, spiced pumpkin filling, buttery caramel layer, and buttery pie crust, this dessert is an unforgettable way to enjoy the flavors of fall. Enjoy it with a cup of hot cider or your favorite cozy beverage for the ultimate autumn indulgence!