It’s October! Not only is it my favorite time of the year, but it’s the best time to be in New York City. I can leave my windows wide open and feel the brisk breeze sweeping through my apartment, (which makes turning the oven on bearable!) I also just love the energy in the air amongst my fellow New Yorkers. It seems like with the new season everyone feels hopeful, excited, and fresh. (At least I do.)
Anyway- onto these delicious candies- after seeing the popular combination of pumpkin and caramel everywhere these days, I figured a pumpkin flavored caramel was something that needed to happen in my life. I wasn’t so sure if the candy-making process would work with the addition of actual pumpkin pureé, but I’m so glad that it did. These caramels are soft, full of spice and they just melt in your mouth. Plus- they have a bonus of toasted pumpkin seeds which add nutty crunch. I’m planning on making them as a part of my Holiday candy-making this year.
Though the process of making these was pretty easy, it was a bit time consuming. It requires a bit of patient hands-off monitoring- (which happens to be great for when you have to wash dishes, prep dinner, etc.) Don’t worry though- while you’re waiting for the caramels to cook- your kitchen will smell absolutely divine…
PS- I used these caramels as the cupcake toppers for some very festive cupcakes. Stay tuned for the recipe tomorrow!
Recipe barely adapted from: Food 52
Joanne (eats well with others) says
I’m definitely MAJORLY excited for October and this cooler weather…it makes marathon training INFINITELY more enjoyable! Plus – pumpkin. Swoon. I’m loving these!
Erin @ The Spiffy Cookie says
Love that you added seeds to it!
Cassie @ Bake Your Day says
These could not be more creative! I adore the pepitos!
Jessica_AKitchenAddiction says
I love pumpkin caramel! Great idea to add pepitas!
Warm Vanilla Sugar says
I love this idea! These caramels are stunning!
realistic nutritionist says
um, yes x 10000000.
Erica says
Wow, so creative! You’re a pro!
Sally says
Audra, the little pepitas on top steal my attention! they are so cute and really give the caramels that little something extra – I can only imagine how your kitchen smelled. i want to bottle up the caramel/pumpkin scents of the world!
Katharine Brosnan says
Oh YES! These look amazing. I just watched the Barefoot Contessa make caramels, and now I’m totally in the mood. I’ve never thought to make them with pumpkin, such an awesome idea!
Tonette Skube says
I LOVE this recipe!Pumpkin Caramels!Wonderful!