Pairing pumpkin and caramel: Desserts you should try
What's the story
Pumpkin and caramel are the undisputed flavor power couple. Their deep, sweet profiles are a match made in heaven, and they're pretty much the secret to nailing those cozy, comforting desserts we all crave when the weather gets cooler. This article shares five tried-and-true ways to combine these two autumnal all-stars in your baking adventures. Get ready for a delicious taste.
Cheesecake
Pumpkin caramel cheesecake delight
A pumpkin caramel cheesecake combines the creamy dreaminess of cheesecake with the comforting warmth of spiced pumpkin and the irresistible gooey sweetness of caramel. Start with a classic graham cracker crust, add a layer of pumpkin-infused cheesecake, and swirl in some caramel sauce before popping it in the oven. After cooling, a final drizzle of caramel seals the deal, guaranteeing an extra indulgent experience.
Rolls
Sweet swirls: Pumpkin caramel rolls
Imagine waking up to the smell of fresh pumpkin caramel rolls baking in the oven. Prepare a dough infused with pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Before rolling, slather the dough with a generous layer of caramel sauce. Bake until they puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown. Relish soft, fluffy rolls with a perfect spiral of sweet caramel and pumpkin in every bite.
Parfait
Layered perfection: Pumpkin caramel parfait
If you want to skip the oven, a pumpkin caramel parfait is a delicious option. Just layer spiced pumpkin mousse with whipped cream and caramel drizzles in clear glasses for a fancy look. The combination of light mousse and decadent caramel makes for a dessert that's as pretty as it is tasty.
Cupcakes
Cupcake innovation: Pumpkin caramel filled treats
These pumpkin cupcakes with a gooey caramel filling are a deliciously sweet treat. Simply bake your favorite pumpkin cupcakes, then use a cupcake corer or a small knife to remove the center of each cupcake and fill it with a spoonful of thick caramel sauce. Finish with a swirl of frosting on top. The result? A decadent dessert with a secret caramel center that's sure to impress.
Pie
Classic twist: Pumpkin caramel pie
A new take on classic pies combines the velvety warmth of pumpkin filling and the indulgent sweetness of caramel in one decadent dessert—the pumpkin caramel pie. Start by partially pre-baking your go-to pie crust, then pour in layers of pureed, spiced-pumpkin goodness and ribbons or dollops of thickened homemade (or top-notch store-bought) caramel sauce. A final bake until set, and voila— a classic dessert with a delicious twist.