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With fall in full swing, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a sweet treat that captures the essence of the season. Picture this: the moment I pulled these Pumpkin Caramel Blondies from the oven, my kitchen was enveloped in the warm, nutty aroma of butter and spices. The golden, chewy bars, studded with toasted pecans and drizzled with homemade salted caramel, are not just a dessert; they are a comforting hug on a chilly autumn day.

After a long week of work, I found myself craving something a bit special to unwind with. These blondies are not only incredibly easy to whip up, but each bite bursts with that rich, buttery goodness—perfectly balanced with the sweet, earthy flavor of pumpkin. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these blonde beauties are sure to please. Join me in creating a delightful fall dessert that might just become your new go-to!

Why are Pumpkin Caramel Blondies so irresistible?

Warm, Cozy Vibes: Each bite transports you to a cozy autumn afternoon, with the comforting blend of pumpkin and spices.
Decadently Chewy: These blondies have a unique texture that’s both chewy and rich, making every bite a delight.
Homemade Touch: The luscious homemade salted caramel elevates the flavor, creating a sweet, gooey contrast.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these scrumptious treats ready in no time!
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for gatherings, they’ll impress family and friends while satisfying every sweet tooth.
Versatile Options: Easily customize with nuts, chocolate chips, or spice variations to suit your taste!

Pumpkin Caramel Blondies Ingredients

For the Blondies
• Unsalted Brown Butter – Adds a toasty, nutty flavor; most recommended. Can substitute with regular unsalted butter.
• Light Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and a rich sweetness; alternative: dark brown sugar for more molasses flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances flavors and adds sweetness; no substitutions needed.
• Egg – Acts as a binder for structure; room temperature recommended for optimal mixing.
• Pumpkin Puree – Essential for flavor and moisture; can substitute with homemade puree but ensure consistency.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; no direct substitute recommended.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; should be measured by spooning and leveling to avoid excess.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds aromatic warmth; can substitute with a cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger mix (2 tsp total).
• Baking Powder – Leavening agent for a light texture; if unavailable, use baking soda but adjust quantities.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; can be substituted with sea salt but use half the measurement.
• Chopped Pecans – Adds crunch and nuttiness; can replace with walnuts or omit entirely.

For the Salted Caramel
• Granulated Sugar – The star of the caramel; be sure to melt it gently for the best results.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Heavy Cream – For a smooth texture; alternatives like coconut cream may alter flavor.
• Flaky Sea Salt – Optional but enhances flavor; substitute with regular salt if unavailable.

These Pumpkin Caramel Blondies not only promise a delightful fall experience but also make for an indulgent treat perfect for every cozy gathering!

How to Make Pumpkin Caramel Blondies

Prepare the Salted Caramel: In a medium saucepan, melt the granulated sugar over medium heat until clumps form, then stir continuously until fully melted and golden brown. Remove from heat, add unsalted butter, and stir in heavy cream and flaky sea salt until smooth. Allow it to cool and store for later use.
Make Blondie Batter: In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted brown butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until light and well combined. Gently mix in the pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and kosher salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring until a sticky dough forms. Fold in the chopped pecans for added crunch!
Prepare Pan: Line a 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking oil. Press half of the blondie dough into the bottom of the pan, drizzle with a generous layer of your cooled salted caramel, then top with the remaining dough.
Chill & Bake: Chill the assembled blondies in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool & Serve: Once baked, allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan. Lift them out using the parchment paper, slice into squares, and top with a drizzle of any remaining caramel and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Caramel Blondies?

Indulging in a warm, sweet treat is even better when paired with delicious sides that enhance the experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture contrasts beautifully with the warm blondies, making each bite an indulgent delight.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream adds a touch of elegance, perfect for balancing the rich flavors.
Cranberry Sauce: Tart and sweet, this seasonal favorite adds a refreshing burst of flavor, brightening the overall palate.
Coffee or Espresso: The boldness of coffee complements the sweet and buttery flavors of the blondies, creating a cozy coffee break vibe.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling more homemade caramel on top intensifies the dessert, making every bite more indulgent and appetizing.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the fall season with a warm pumpkin spice latte that echoes the flavors in your blondies.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai complement the pumpkin and pecans, offering a cozy pairing on a chilly day.
Pecan Pie Bars: For those who can’t get enough of nuts and sweetness, these bars create a lovely dessert duo perfect for sharing.
Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider creates a comforting and festive drink that pairs wonderfully with autumn treats.
Chocolate Truffles: These rich bites add a layer of decadence, enhancing the sweet experience without overshadowing the blondies.

Pumpkin Caramel Blondies Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that bring even more joy to your baking experience!

Nut-Free: Replace chopped pecans with sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without the nuts.
Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water). Use plant-based butter and cream for the caramel.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Chai Spice: Enhance the flavors by mixing cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger for a warm chai spice infusion.
Dark Chocolate: Fold in dark chocolate chunks to create a rich, indulgent contrast to the pumpkin’s sweetness.
Maple Caramel: Replace homemade salted caramel with a luscious maple syrup drizzle for a delightful fall twist.
Coconut Flakes: Add unsweetened coconut flakes for a unique flavor and chewy texture that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on top before baking for a sweet, crunchy layer.

Each variation invites you to create your perfect pumpkin caramel blondies, making every bite an adventure of flavor and delight!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Caramel Blondies

Room Temperature: Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, though this may slightly alter the texture.

Freezer: Freeze individual blondies wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Reheating: To enjoy warm, pop the blondies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until warmed through, enhancing the gooey caramel center.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Caramel Blondies

Brown the Butter Carefully: Avoid burning the butter; watch closely until it turns golden brown and smells nutty for the best flavor.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature egg and butter ensures smooth mixing and a rich texture in your Pumpkin Caramel Blondies.

Measure Flour Properly: Spoon and level your flour to prevent excess, which could make your blondies dense rather than chewy and delightful.

Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep your blondies tender. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture.

Chill Before Baking: Chilling the assembled blondies helps them hold their shape and ensures a chewy interior when baked.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Caramel Blondies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without compromising on flavor! You can prepare the salted caramel up to 3 days in advance; simply cool it, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate until you’re ready to use. For the blondie batter, mix all the wet ingredients and dry ingredients and store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just fold in the pecans and assemble the layers. This way, you’ll have all the deliciousness with minimal effort on the day you want to serve them, ensuring your blondies are just as gooey and decadent!

Pumpkin Caramel Blondies Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my pumpkin is ripe enough?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture, use 100% pure pumpkin puree—look for a rich, deep orange color without any dark spots. If using a fresh pumpkin, choose one that feels heavy for its size and has a firm skin, indicating ripeness.

How should I store my Pumpkin Caramel Blondies?
For optimal freshness, store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be kept in the fridge for about a week; however, refrigeration may slightly change their chewy texture. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best experience!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Caramel Blondies?
Certainly! To freeze them, wrap each blondie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature. If you prefer a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds!

What can I do if my blondies turn out too dense?
Very! To achieve that perfect chewy texture, make sure to measure your flour correctly by spooning and leveling it. Avoid overmixing your batter once the flour is added, as this can lead to denser blondies. Additionally, ensure that your baking powder is fresh—expired leavening agents can hinder the rise.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, when making these Pumpkin Caramel Blondies, keep in mind that pecans can trigger allergies, so you might want to offer alternatives like walnuts or omit them altogether if you’re sharing with others. For a dairy-free version, swap in a vegan butter alternative for the unsalted butter and use coconut cream in the caramel sauce.

What should I do if my caramel isn’t the right consistency?
If your homemade salted caramel is too runny, it may need a bit more cooking. Return it to medium heat and let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. For a thicker caramel right from the start, be sure to heat your sugar carefully until it reaches a deep amber color before adding the butter and cream.