Salted Caramel Pumpkin Blondies Recipe

Fall is the ultimate season for cozy flavors, and nothing captures that spirit quite like these Salted Caramel Pumpkin Blondies. If you love the chewy texture of a classic blondie but crave the seasonal warmth of pumpkin spice, this recipe is for you. They are dense, moist, and packed with a rich caramel swirl that takes them to the next level.

The combination of sea salt and sweet caramel cuts through the earthiness of the pumpkin perfectly. Whether you are hosting a Thanksgiving gathering or just looking for a weekend baking project, these bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for your kitchen to smell like an autumnal dream!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 16 bars
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 245 kcal
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 180mg

Why Make This Salted Caramel Pumpkin Blondies Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic alternative to traditional pumpkin pie or basic brownies. The texture is incredibly fudgy because of the pumpkin puree, which acts as a natural moisturizer. Unlike cakey pumpkin bars, these stay dense and decadent, making them feel like a true gourmet treat.

Another reason to love these blondies is how easily they come together. You don’t need a heavy-duty mixer or any complex techniques. The salted caramel drizzle adds a sophisticated touch that makes them look like they came from a high-end bakery, even though they are simple enough for a beginner to master.

How to Make Salted Caramel Pumpkin Blondies Recipe

Creating these bars is a straightforward process that involves mixing your wet and dry ingredients before swirling in that golden caramel. Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect balance of spice and sweetness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (ensure it is not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Directions

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides to make it easy to lift the blondies out later. Lightly grease the parchment with cooking spray.

Step 2: Mixing the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, whisking until well combined. Stir in the pumpkin puree until the mixture is uniform in color.

Step 3: Combining the Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding them in with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; stop as soon as no flour streaks remain.

Step 4: Swirling the Caramel

Spread about two-thirds of the blondie batter into the prepared baking pan. Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over the batter. Drop the remaining batter in small dollops over the caramel, then drizzle the rest of the caramel on top. Use a knife or a skewer to gently swirl the caramel into the batter.

Step 5: Baking

Place the pan in the center rack of the oven and bake for 28-32 minutes. The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs. Do not overbake, or they will lose their fudgy texture.

Step 6: Cooling and Garnishing

Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top. Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing into squares. This ensures the caramel sets and the bars hold their shape.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Pumpkin Blondies Recipe

These blondies are delicious at room temperature, but they are truly spectacular when served slightly warm. For a decadent dessert, serve a warm square with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and an extra drizzle of caramel sauce. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate afternoon treat.

How to Store Salted Caramel Pumpkin Blondies Recipe

To keep your blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully! Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Expert Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Pumpkin Blondies Recipe

For the best results, make sure you blot your pumpkin puree with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent the blondies from becoming too “cakey.” Additionally, use high-quality salted caramel sauce for the best flavor. If your caramel is very thick, microwave it for 10 seconds so it is easier to swirl into the batter.

Delicious Variations

If you want to add some texture, try folding in 1/2 cup of toasted pecans or walnuts. For chocolate lovers, adding white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks to the batter provides a lovely contrast to the pumpkin and caramel. You can also swap the pumpkin pie spice for a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg if that is what you have on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, it is best to use 100% pure pumpkin puree. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that will throw off the balance and texture of this specific recipe.

Q: Why are my blondies too soft or gooey?

Pumpkin adds a lot of moisture. Ensure you measured your flour correctly and that you allowed the blondies to cool completely. They continue to set as they cool.

Q: Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best structure.

Q: How do I get a clean cut when slicing?

Wait until the blondies are completely cold. You can even chill them in the fridge for 30 minutes before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut.

Q: Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and bake them in a 9×13 inch pan. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the total baking time.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Pumpkin Blondies are the ultimate fall indulgence. With their chewy texture, warm spices, and salty-sweet finish, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite in your household. They are easy to make and even easier to eat! Give this recipe a try today and enjoy the cozy flavors of autumn in every bite.

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