Learn to make easy pumpkin spice caramels that are soft, chewy, and loaded with the delicious flavors of the Fall season. These buttery caramels only take a few minutes of hands on time to mix, and then are made quickly and easily in the microwave! No candy thermometer needed, they’ll come out perfect every time.
Did you know you can actually make gourmet caramels in SIX minutes? I mean it! You will love these easy pumpkin spice caramels to share with those you love this autumn season. If you want to try the OG caramel recipe without the pumpkin spice flavor, you can check it out HERE!
I love making caramels so much! I used to have a yearly tradition with my mom and we would make them to give out on our Christmas goodie plates. Making stovetop caramels is a lot of work! We would stand over the stove for what felt like 45 minutes stirring and stirring and trying not to scorch the boiling caramel on the bottom of the pan.
Stovetop caramels always required a candy thermometer and I will tell you, we had many failed batches that were either too tough or too soft. After one too many negative outcomes, we decided there had to be a better way.
You might be skeptical to believe that these microwave caramels will come out with perfect texture every time. Let me tell you, I have made them dozens and dozens of times and never ever had a failed batch!
Tips for easy pumpkin spice caramels:
- Use a bowl that is at least 2 quarts or larger so the caramel doesn’t boil over in the microwave.
- Use parchment paper to line your pan, NOT WAX PAPER
- Allow caramels to fully cool and set, then refrigerate for about 20 minutes before slicing.
- Use a pizza cutter to slice caramels into squares.
- Wrap in these candy wraps that are pre-cut or find some good wax sheets that are made for caramels.
- Use this caramel for dipping apples if you’d like! We absolutely love it on honeycrisp apples!
You have got to give these a try. I’ve already shared the original recipe HERE, and I have also created a recipe for dipping caramel apples which turn out just like the fancy gourmet ones you see in candy stores. The difference? This recipe is the easy way!
Today I am putting a fall twist on my caramels by adding a magical little fall flavor called pumpkin spice. I know, I know. Pumpkin spice is everywhere right now. But trust me, these are SO much fun to make and to share with your friends and neighbors! I cannot wait for you to try them.
Loving all things Autumn? Check out these other cozy FALL posts!
Easy candied almonds and pecans
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (one stick) salted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup karo works great
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Butter or pam spray an 8×8 baking dish. Line pan with a parchment sheet.
- In a 2 quart bowl or larger, melt butter.
- Add remaining ingredients (except vanilla) and return to the microwave for 6 minutes and 30 seconds. Remove using hot pads (the bowl will be super hot!)
- Stir in vanilla.
- Pour caramel into prepared baking dish. Once set, lightly with a little sea salt if desired.
- Allow to fully cool and set before cutting.
- Refrigerate for 25 minutes before slicing (it will make the process easier!)
- Remove sheet of caramel and slice with a large sharp knife. TIP* I like to put a little butter on a napkin or paper towel and wipe both sides of the knife. It helps the caramels not stick as you slice them!
- I like to wrap the caramels in wax paper or the clear candy wraps I linked in the post.
- Caramels do not require refrigeration, but we like to store ours in the fridge!
Notes
- Easy Candied Almonds and Pecans
- Simple and Easy Apple Galette
- Simple and Cozy Fall Decor Ideas
- Easy Blueberry Lemon Compote
- Easy Cinnamon and Sugar Pie Crust Treats
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These look so amazing! I love chewy caramels.