Name: Salted Pumpkin Caramels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: PT-488496H6M1S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2/3 cup unsalted pumpkin seeds; 2/3 cup pumpkin puree; 1 1/4 cups heavy cream; 2 cups white sugar; 1/3 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup light corn syrup; 1/4 cup water; 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into slices; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 3/4 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice; 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (such as fleur de sel)

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Salted Pumpkin Caramels are a decadent fall treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin puree and spices with the rich, buttery sweetness of homemade caramel. Topped with flaky sea salt and layered with toasted pumpkin seeds, these candies strike the perfect balance between sweet and salty. Ideal for gifting, holiday gatherings, or simply indulging in a seasonal delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A unique fall twist on classic caramel candy.
Pumpkin puree and spices add depth and seasonal flavor.
Toasted pumpkin seeds give a nutty crunch.
Flaky sea salt balances sweetness with a savory edge.
Perfect for homemade gifts or holiday candy platters.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2/3 cup unsalted pumpkin seeds
2/3 cup pumpkin puree
1 1/4 cups heavy cream
2 cups white sugar
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup water
3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into slices
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (such as fleur de sel)

Directions

Toast pumpkin seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for about 3 minutes, until lightly golden and nutty. Transfer to a bowl to cool.
Butter an 8×8-inch dish, line with parchment, and butter both sides of the paper. Spread pumpkin seeds evenly across the bottom.
In a small saucepan, mix pumpkin puree and heavy cream; warm over low heat. Keep nearby.
In a large heavy saucepan, combine sugar, maple syrup, corn syrup, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high, whisking occasionally. Reduce heat to medium and cook until mixture reaches 245°F (118°C).
Slowly whisk in the warm pumpkin cream mixture, being careful of bubbling. Cook until mixture returns to 240–245°F (115–118°C).
Remove from heat. Stir in butter, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and vinegar until smooth.
Carefully pour caramel into the prepared pan over the pumpkin seeds. Let cool for 10 minutes, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Allow to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for about 30 minutes before cutting into 64 small squares.

Servings and timing

Yield: 64 caramels
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 40 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Substitute pecans, walnuts, or almonds for pumpkin seeds.
Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness.
Add a drizzle of dark chocolate once the caramels are set.
Sprinkle extra pumpkin spice on top along with sea salt.
Shape into logs and wrap in wax paper for festive gifting.

Storage/Reheating

Store wrapped caramels in wax paper or parchment inside an airtight container.
Keep at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerate for up to 1 month.
Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before eating.
Do not reheat—these are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices, which may affect the recipe’s balance.

Why do I need a candy thermometer?

The thermometer ensures the caramel reaches the correct soft-ball stage for the right consistency.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and butter with vegan butter.

What can I use instead of corn syrup?

Golden syrup or honey may work, but texture and flavor will vary.

How do I prevent caramels from sticking to the knife?

Wipe the blade with a hot, damp towel between cuts for clean slices.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a larger pan and extend cooking time slightly.

Why add vinegar or lemon juice?

It prevents the sugar from crystallizing, keeping the caramel smooth.

Do I have to toast the pumpkin seeds?

Yes, toasting enhances flavor and keeps them crunchy in the caramel.

Can I skip the sea salt topping?

Yes, but the salt enhances flavor and balances sweetness.

Are these good for gifting?

Yes, wrap individually in wax paper and package in festive boxes or jars.

Conclusion

Salted Pumpkin Caramels are a delightful seasonal candy that combines rich caramel, warm spices, and crunchy pumpkin seeds for an irresistible sweet-and-salty bite. Perfect for snacking, sharing, or gifting, this recipe brings the flavors of autumn into a luxurious homemade treat.

Molly