Spiced Pumpkin Coconut Caramels
Indulge in the perfect balance of autumn with our Spiced Pumpkin Coconut Caramels. This delightful candy combines the earthiness of home-roasted pumpkin puree with the creaminess of coconut milk and the warm spices of pumpkin pie, all finished with a sprinkle of fine sea salt. Each chewy caramel delivers a burst of seasonal flavors, creating an irresistible treat for holiday gatherings or gifting.
32
Servings
50
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
sugar
3/4 cup (none)
water
2 tablespoons (none)
golden syrup
2 tablespoons (none)
full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
1/4 cup (none)
canned pumpkin puree
6 tablespoons (none)
Earth Balance margarine or unsalted butter
2 tablespoons (stick)
fine sea salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon (none)
vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon (none)
good quality sea salt
sprinkling (for topping)
Instructions
1
Prepare a 9x5-inch pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
2
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and golden syrup. Swirl gently to ensure all the sugar is moistened. Place the saucepan over medium heat and allow the mixture to cook without stirring until it transforms into a rich amber color, approximately 10 minutes.
3
While the sugar mixture cooks, in another pan, warm the coconut milk (or heavy cream), pumpkin puree, Earth Balance (or butter), fine sea salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir this mixture continuously until smooth and heated through.
4
Remove the amber sugar mixture from the heat. Carefully and slowly incorporate the warm pumpkin mixture into the sugar syrup. Be cautious as it will bubble vigorously.
5
Return the saucepan to medium heat. Using a candy thermometer, cook the combined mixture, stirring often, until it reaches a temperature of 248°F (120°C).
6
Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the pan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
7
Pour the hot caramel into the prepared pan. Allow the mixture to sit undisturbed for about 2 minutes, then sprinkle with a light dusting of good quality sea salt, if desired.
8
Let the caramels cool completely at room temperature for about 6 hours or until fully set. Once firm, cut into 32 bite-sized squares and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
2g
Fat
8g
Carbs
0g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spiced Pumpkin Coconut Caramels?
They are a homemade candy combining roasted pumpkin puree, coconut milk, and warm pumpkin pie spices for a seasonal autumn treat.
How many caramels does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 32 bite-sized squares.
Can I make these caramels vegan?
Yes, by using full-fat coconut milk and Earth Balance margarine, these caramels are naturally vegan.
What temperature must the caramel reach?
The mixture needs to reach a temperature of 248°F (120°C) on a candy thermometer.
How long do the caramels take to set?
They should cool completely at room temperature for about 6 hours or until fully set.
Can I substitute heavy cream for coconut milk?
Yes, heavy cream can be used as a direct substitute for full-fat coconut milk.
What size pan should I use?
A 9x5-inch pan lined with parchment paper is recommended.
How many calories are in one caramel?
Each serving contains approximately 50 calories.
Should I stir the sugar while it cooks to amber?
No, you should allow the sugar mixture to cook without stirring until it reaches a rich amber color.
What kind of pumpkin should I use?
You can use canned pumpkin puree or home-roasted pumpkin puree.
Is there a substitute for Earth Balance margarine?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter if you do not require the recipe to be vegan.
What is the purpose of golden syrup?
Golden syrup helps provide a smooth texture and prevents the sugar from crystallizing.
When do I add the sea salt topping?
Sprinkle the sea salt about 2 minutes after pouring the hot caramel into the pan.
How much fat is in each caramel?
There are 2g of fat per serving.
Can I use a different spice instead of pumpkin pie spice?
While pumpkin pie spice is recommended for the signature flavor, you could use a blend of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
What should I do if the mixture bubbles vigorously?
This is normal when adding the pumpkin mixture to the hot sugar syrup; just incorporate it slowly and carefully.
Is it necessary to use a candy thermometer?
Yes, using a candy thermometer is crucial to ensure the caramel reaches the correct firm-ball stage.
When do I add the vanilla extract?
Stir in the vanilla extract after removing the pan from the heat once it reaches 248°F.
How do I prepare the pan?
Line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Are these caramels gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, these caramels are gluten-free.
How much carbohydrates are in one serving?
Each caramel contains 8g of carbohydrates.
Can I skip the golden syrup?
It is not recommended as it affects the final texture and stability of the caramel.
Do these caramels contain protein?
No, there is 0g of protein per serving.
What is the prep time for the sugar mixture?
It takes approximately 10 minutes for the sugar, water, and syrup to reach a rich amber color.
How much pumpkin puree is required?
The recipe calls for 6 tablespoons of pumpkin puree.
Can I use light coconut milk?
Full-fat coconut milk is recommended for the necessary creaminess and fat content.
What kind of salt should go inside the caramel?
The recipe specifies 1/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt for the mixture.
Is this recipe suitable for gifting?
Yes, these bite-sized caramels are an excellent choice for holiday gifting.
How do I cut the caramels?
Once firm and completely cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper and cut into 32 squares.
How much vanilla extract is used?
The recipe requires 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.