Fall flavors don’t get much better than pumpkin spice and caramel. These Pumpkin Spice Caramel Treats combine the warm spices of autumn with the rich, buttery sweetness of caramel for a dessert that’s indulgent yet comforting. Perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or cozy nights at home, these treats are easy to make and always a crowd favorite.
What are Pumpkin Spice Caramel Treats?
Pumpkin Spice Caramel Treats are chewy, bite-sized confections made by infusing classic caramel with pumpkin pie spice and sometimes pumpkin purée. They can be molded into squares, dipped in chocolate, or drizzled over baked goods. Some versions use Rice Krispies or shortbread bases, while others are standalone soft caramels with a spiced twist.
Pumpkin Spice Caramel Treats
Equipment
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- heavy saucepan
- wooden spoon
- candy thermometer
- knife or candy cutter
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 1/4 cups brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup pumpkin purée (optional)
- melted dark chocolate (for dipping or drizzling)
- sea salt flakes (for garnish)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease with butter.
- In a heavy saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar, corn syrup, and condensed milk. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon.
- Bring mixture to a steady boil, stirring often, until it reaches 245°F (firm ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and pumpkin purée (if using).
- Pour mixture into prepared pan. Cool completely at room temperature, about 2 hours.
- Once firm, cut into squares. Dip in melted chocolate or sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
Notes
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe makes about 36 bite-sized caramels.
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 ¼ cups brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- Optional: ¼ cup pumpkin purée (for stronger pumpkin flavor, but increases softness)
For finishing
- Melted dark chocolate (for dipping or drizzling)
- Sea salt flakes (for garnish)
Substitutions
- Dairy-free: use vegan butter and coconut milk sweetened condensed alternative.
- Gluten-free: naturally GF.
- Lower sugar: swap part of sugar for maple syrup (texture will be softer).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep pan
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Grease lightly with butter.
Step 2: Cook caramel
In a heavy saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar, corn syrup, and condensed milk. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon.
Step 3: Boil mixture
Bring mixture to a steady boil, stirring often, until it reaches 245°F (firm ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
Step 4: Add flavor
Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and pumpkin purée (if using).
Step 5: Set caramels
Pour mixture into prepared pan. Cool completely at room temperature (about 2 hours).
Step 6: Cut and decorate
Once firm, cut into squares. Dip in chocolate or sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Caramels
- Stir constantly to prevent scorching.
- Use a candy thermometer for perfect texture.
- If adding pumpkin purée, refrigerate to firm them up.
- Wrap individually in wax paper for easy storage and gifting.
Variations
- Pumpkin spice caramel apples: Use caramel as a coating for apples.
- Pumpkin spice caramel pretzel bites: Sandwich caramel between pretzels and dip in chocolate.
- Pumpkin caramel Rice Krispie treats: Mix warm caramel into cereal for chewy bars.
- Pumpkin spice caramel drizzle: Keep sauce-like by stopping at 235°F for topping ice cream or cakes.
Storage and Make-Ahead
- Room temperature: Store wrapped in wax paper in an airtight container up to 1 week.
- Refrigerator: Keeps up to 2 weeks; bring to room temperature before eating.
- Freezer: Freeze wrapped caramels up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
Serving Ideas
Pumpkin Spice Caramel Treats are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:
- As stand-alone soft caramels
- Dipped in chocolate and sprinkled with nuts
- Melted slightly and drizzled over brownies, scones, or pumpkin bread
- Wrapped in festive bags as edible gifts
Nutrition Breakdown
One caramel square has about 120–140 calories, 1 gram protein, 17 grams carbs, and 6 grams fat. Adding chocolate coating increases calories by ~30 per piece.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Spice Caramel Treats are a sweet and chewy way to enjoy fall flavors. With rich caramel, warm pumpkin spice, and optional chocolate or sea salt toppings, they’re perfect for gifting, parties, or satisfying your sweet tooth. Easy to make and festive, these treats deserve a spot in your seasonal recipe collection.
FAQs
Do I need a candy thermometer?
Yes, it ensures your caramel sets properly.
Can I add pumpkin purée?
Yes, but it makes caramels softer—store in fridge.
Can I make them into sauce instead?
Yes, cook to 235°F for a drizzle consistency.
Can I use white chocolate for dipping?
Yes, it pairs well with pumpkin spice.
Can kids help make these?
They can help wrap or decorate, but boiling caramel should be handled by adults.