Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts Recipe

If you are craving a cozy, indulgent treat that perfectly captures the essence of autumn, these Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts are exactly what you need. Combining silky pumpkin filling enriched with warm pumpkin spice and a luscious caramel layer, all nestled in a flaky tart shell, this dessert is a delightful harmony of flavors and textures that dance on your palate. Whether for a festive gathering or a simple sweet escape, Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts bring seasonal comfort into every bite.

Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the perfect balance of sweet, spice, and creamy texture in these tarts. Each item is essential for creating the luscious filling and crunchy crust that define Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

  • Pumpkin puree: Use smooth canned pumpkin or fresh pumpkin cooked and mashed for a rich, natural base.
  • Eggs: They provide structure and help the filling set beautifully when baked.
  • Heavy cream: Adds a velvety creaminess that makes the filling dreamy and smooth.
  • Pumpkin spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that delivers that classic autumn warmth.
  • Brown sugar: Gives a subtle molasses sweetness that complements the pumpkin and spice perfectly.
  • Premade tart shells or homemade pastry: Choose flaky, buttery crusts for a perfect contrast to the filling.
  • Caramel sauce: Adds an irresistible gooey layer that balances the pumpkin’s earthiness with rich sweetness.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Tart Shells

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to bake as soon as your tarts are assembled. If using premade tart shells, simply arrange them on a baking sheet to keep them stable during baking. For homemade dough, roll it out carefully and line your tart pans, making sure to press the dough evenly into the edges to avoid any gaps that might cause leaks.

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling

In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, heavy cream, pumpkin spice, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This combination creates the luscious, spiced custard that will set beautifully in the oven, offering both richness and the signature pumpkin flavor.

Step 3: Layer in the Caramel Sauce

Spoon about one tablespoon of your caramel sauce into each tart shell and spread it evenly across the bottom. This gooey layer will melt slightly during baking, creating an indulgent caramel base beneath the pumpkin filling that adds depth and a wonderful surprise element.

Step 4: Pour the Pumpkin Filling

Carefully pour the pumpkin mixture over the caramel layer in each tart, leaving a small gap at the top to prevent overflow and allow the filling to puff slightly. This step requires a gentle hand to keep the layers intact and the presentation neat.

Step 5: Bake the Tarts

Place the tarts in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or 35 to 40 minutes if you’re making a larger single tart. You’ll know they’re ready when the filling is set and has puffed gently. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, ensuring a soft, creamy texture.

Step 6: Cool and Finish

Allow the Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts to cool completely before removing them from their pans. This resting period helps the filling set fully, so your tarts slice beautifully and don’t lose their shape. For an extra touch, drizzle some caramel sauce on top and sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin spice or add whipped cream just before serving.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts

Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A simple dusting of pumpkin spice or a swirl of lightly whipped cream can elevate your Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts from delicious to divine. Freshly toasted pecans or a few flakes of sea salt on top can also add texture and enhance the caramel notes beautifully.

Side Dishes

These tarts pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a hot cup of cinnamon-spiced coffee or chai tea. The warmth from the spices in the drink blends perfectly with the tart’s flavors, creating a harmonious autumnal treat experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For festive occasions, serve your Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts on a rustic wooden board with scattered autumn leaves or cinnamon sticks for an inviting look. Alternatively, arrange mini tarts on tiered stands for a charming dessert display that will wow your guests visually and palate-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts covered tightly in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavor even after the initial bake day.

Freezing

If you want to save tarts for longer, freeze them unbaked in your tart shells or fully baked. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen tarts maintain their quality for up to one month.

Reheating

To enjoy tarts that were refrigerated or frozen, gently reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes to warm through without drying out the filling. Avoid the microwave as it can alter the texture and make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Just roast or steam the pumpkin flesh until tender and mash or puree it smoothly. Using fresh pumpkin gives a more natural flavor but be sure to drain any excess moisture before using to keep the filling from becoming too watery.

What if I don’t have premade tart shells or pastry dough?

You can easily make a simple tart crust using flour, cold butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix and chill the dough before rolling it out. There are plenty of quick tart shell recipes available if you want to make it from scratch for extra freshness.

Can I make these tarts vegan?

With some ingredient swaps, yes! Use a plant-based cream alternative, an egg substitute like flax eggs, and ensure your caramel sauce is dairy-free. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!

How spicy are the Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts?

They have a gentle warmth from the pumpkin spice blend, which is not overpowering. The spice enhances the pumpkin flavor without heat, making it suitable for most palates looking for that comforting autumn taste.

Can I prepare these tarts in advance for a party?

Definitely. You can assemble the tarts and refrigerate them before baking on the day of your event. Alternatively, bake them ahead of time and store in the fridge, then add fresh garnishes before serving for convenience without sacrificing taste.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts that warms the soul and delights the senses. I encourage you to dive into this recipe and share these rich, spiced treats with your loved ones. They’re easy to make, stunning to serve, and absolutely irresistible to eat—your new favorite autumn dessert awaits!

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Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts Recipe

These Pumpkin Spice Caramel Tarts combine the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with rich caramel in a buttery tart shell. Perfectly baked to achieve a creamy, spiced pumpkin filling layered over luscious caramel, these tarts are ideal for autumn desserts or festive gatherings.

  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 68 tarts 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Tart Shells

  • Premade tart shells or homemade pastry dough (enough for 6-8 tarts)

Pumpkin Filling

  • 1 cup (240g) pumpkin puree
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
  • 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar

Caramel Layer

  • Caramel sauce, about 1 tablespoon per tart shell (approx. 6-8 tablespoons total)

Optional Toppings

  • Extra caramel sauce for drizzling
  • Pinch of pumpkin spice
  • Whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature once your tarts are assembled.
  2. Prepare Tart Shells: Place premade tart shells on a baking sheet, or if using homemade pastry dough, roll it out and carefully line your tart pans, making sure to press down the edges evenly for uniform baking.
  3. Make Pumpkin Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, heavy cream, pumpkin spice, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy and flavorful filling.
  4. Add Caramel Layer: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of caramel sauce into each tart shell, spreading it evenly over the base to form a sweet, sticky layer.
  5. Fill with Pumpkin Mixture: Carefully pour the pumpkin filling over the caramel layer in each shell, leaving a small gap at the top to avoid overflow when baking.
  6. Bake: Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or if you have made a larger single tart, bake for 35-40 minutes, until the filling is set and slightly puffed but not jiggly.
  7. Cool: Remove tarts from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before removing them from the tart pans to prevent breaking or sticking.
  8. Optional Garnish: Drizzle with extra caramel sauce and sprinkle a pinch of pumpkin spice over the tops. Serve with whipped cream if desired for an extra indulgent touch.

Notes

  • If using homemade pastry, chilling the dough before baking helps prevent shrinking.
  • Pumpkin spice typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves; adjust to taste.
  • Allowing tarts to cool fully improves texture and flavor.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tart shells or crust.
  • Caramel sauce can be store-bought or homemade depending on preference.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tart (approx. 100g)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: pumpkin tart, pumpkin spice, caramel tarts, fall desserts, autumn recipes, baked pumpkin tart

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