Caramel Pumpkin Blondies

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Fall is the perfect time to indulge in rich, comforting desserts that celebrate seasonal flavors. Caramel Pumpkin Blondies combine the warm, cozy essence of pumpkin with the irresistible sweetness of caramel, creating a treat that feels like autumn in every bite. These blondies offer a soft, chewy texture with a gooey caramel swirl that makes them utterly addictive. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cozy night in, or just because, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Caramel Pumpkin Blondies stand out because they bring together two beloved fall flavors in a simple yet sophisticated way. Unlike traditional pumpkin desserts that rely heavily on spices and cream cheese, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness of pumpkin paired with luscious caramel. The blondies are easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and straightforward steps that even beginner bakers can follow. Plus, they’re moist and dense without being overly rich, striking the perfect balance between indulgence and comfort.

The addition of caramel ribbons throughout the blondie batter adds a surprising, delightful texture contrast, making each bite exciting. These blondies are perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying solo with a cup of coffee or tea. Best of all, the recipe uses common pantry staples and natural pumpkin puree, making it accessible year-round.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (pure, unsweetened)
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade, ensure gelatin-free)

How To Make Caramel Pumpkin Blondies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This will ensure your blondies come out cleanly and hold their shape.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These warm spices complement the pumpkin perfectly, adding depth without overpowering the blondies.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to incorporate. Then, stir in the pumpkin puree until fully combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet pumpkin mixture. Fold gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the blondies may turn out dense rather than tender.

Step 5: Assemble and Swirl Caramel

Pour half of the blondie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, then drizzle the rest of the caramel. Using a knife or skewer, swirl the caramel gently through the batter to create beautiful marbled patterns.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep the blondies soft and chewy.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Enjoy as is, or warm slightly for that gooey caramel experience.

Expert Tips

• Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control the sweetness and spice levels.
• For a more intense caramel flavor, use a homemade caramel sauce made with coconut cream and brown sugar.
• To prevent the caramel from sinking, swirl it gently but don’t mix too aggressively.
• Ensure your brown sugar is packed well for the right sweetness and moisture.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper lining – it makes removing the blondies so much easier.
• Let the blondies cool fully before slicing to avoid crumbling.

Variations and Customizations

• Add nuts: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor.
• Chocolate chips: Mix in 1/2 cup -certified dark or milk chocolate chips to bring a chocolatey twist.
• Spice it up: Increase the cinnamon and nutmeg or add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for a spicier blondie.
• Swirl cream cheese: Add dollops of sweetened cream cheese before baking and swirl for a creamy surprise.
• Make it vegan: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) for an egg replacement.
• Salted caramel: Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of the caramel swirl before baking to balance the sweetness.

How to Store Leftovers

Store your caramel pumpkin blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Before serving, bring them to room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for that fresh-baked feel. For extended storage, you can freeze the blondies (cut into bars) in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or warm gently before eating.

FAQ

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use pure pumpkin puree as canned pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices which can alter the flavor and texture of your blondies. Pure pumpkin puree provides a clean pumpkin flavor that pairs perfectly with the caramel.

Is it possible to make these blondies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to help the blondies hold together well.

How do I make homemade caramel sauce suitable for this recipe?

You can make a simple -friendly caramel sauce by melting brown sugar with a little water and coconut cream over medium heat until it thickens and turns golden. Avoid using traditional caramel recipes that call for gelatin or non-permissible dairy products.

Can I double the recipe to make a larger batch?

Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes, so keep an eye on the blondies and test for doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

Caramel Pumpkin Blondies are a decadent yet approachable dessert that captures the essence of autumn with every bite. The marriage of tender pumpkin-infused batter and sweet, gooey caramel makes these blondies a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a batch of irresistible treats that showcase seasonal flavors beautifully. Whether you stick to the classic version or customize with nuts or chocolate, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite that you’ll return to year after year. Give it a try and enjoy the cozy, sweet warmth of fall in your kitchen!