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To make these delicious squares, gather these key items: - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/4 cup melted coconut oil - 1/4 cup maple syrup - 1 cup pumpkin puree - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/2 cup powdered sugar - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg - 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) - 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips These ingredients create a rich and creamy treat. The graham cracker crumbs make a crunchy base, while the cocoa powder adds a deep chocolate flavor. Pumpkin puree brings a smooth texture and warmth. You can add a few fun twists to make these squares your own: - Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) for crunch - A sprinkle of sea salt on top for contrast - Whipped cream for serving Feel free to play with these options. They can elevate the taste and make your dessert unique. If you need to swap some items, here are great options: - Use almond flour instead of graham cracker crumbs for a gluten-free crust. - Replace coconut oil with butter if you prefer a traditional flavor. - Try honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup for sweetness. These substitutions allow for flexibility while keeping the spirit of the recipe intact. Enjoy creating your perfect Chocolate Caramel Pumpkin Squares! First, grab a medium bowl. Mix together 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs and 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Add in 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil and 1/4 cup of maple syrup. Use a fork to blend these well. The mixture should feel slightly wet. Now, take an 8x8-inch square pan and press this mixture firmly into the bottom. This will form your crust. Make sure it is even and compact. Next, you will make the pumpkin filling. In a clean bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese, and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend until it is smooth and creamy. You want a nice, fluffy texture without any lumps. Now, it’s time to assemble your delicious squares. Spread the pumpkin filling over the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Next, take 1/4 cup of caramel sauce and drizzle it over the pumpkin layer. If you like, you can swirl it gently with a knife for a marbled look. For the final touch, melt 1/4 cup of dark chocolate chips in the microwave. Do this in 20-second bursts, stirring in between. Once melted, drizzle the chocolate over the caramel layer. Cover the pan and refrigerate it for at least four hours or overnight. When set, cut into squares and enjoy! To make a perfect pumpkin mixture, use room temperature cream cheese. Cold cream cheese can create lumps. Mix your pumpkin puree well before adding other ingredients. This helps blend the flavors. Use a hand mixer for a creamy texture. Combine the pumpkin, cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl often to catch any lumps. For melting dark chocolate, use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the chocolate in short bursts of 20 seconds. Stir between each burst to avoid burning. If the chocolate feels too thick, add a small amount of coconut oil. This helps it flow better. Always check that no water touches the chocolate, as this can cause it to seize. Keep your squares in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to a week. For serving, cut the squares into bite-sized pieces, making them easy to share. You can also drizzle extra caramel or chocolate on top for a fun touch. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This makes them easier to cut and enhances the flavors. {{image_2}} To make a vegan version, swap the cream cheese for a plant-based cream cheese. Use maple syrup as a sweetener. Instead of dark chocolate chips, choose dairy-free chocolate. This gives you the same creamy texture without any animal products. You will enjoy the full flavor without missing anything! For a gluten-free treat, use gluten-free graham crackers. This simple swap keeps the crust tasty and safe for those with gluten issues. Make sure all your other ingredients are also gluten-free. Check the labels on the chocolate and caramel sauce to avoid gluten. You can add more flavor to the pumpkin layer. Try a pinch of ginger or a splash of almond extract. Both add a unique twist. For extra texture, mix in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts. If you want a richer taste, use dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. Each option lets you play with flavors and create something special! To keep your chocolate caramel pumpkin squares fresh, place them in an airtight container. They should stay good in the fridge for up to five days. If you have leftovers, cut them into squares before storing. This way, you can grab one easily when you want a treat. If you want to save these yummy squares for later, freezing is a great option. First, cut the squares into pieces. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place all the wrapped squares in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw in the fridge overnight. To keep your squares tasting their best, avoid exposing them to air. Always use a sealed container. If you notice any changes in smell or texture, it’s best to toss them. For the freshest taste, try to eat them within the first few days. Yes, you can make these squares ahead of time. I often prepare them the night before. This allows the flavors to blend and set nicely. Just cover the pan well and keep it in the fridge. They will taste even better the next day. You can use butternut squash puree if you do not have pumpkin puree. It has a similar texture and taste. Sweet potato puree is another great option. Both choices will keep your squares delicious and creamy. To get a great chocolate drizzle, melt the dark chocolate chips in the microwave. Heat in short bursts of 20 seconds, stirring each time until smooth. This helps avoid burning the chocolate. Use a spoon or a piping bag to drizzle it over the caramel layer. This way, you can control the design and make it look nice. This blog post covered everything you need for delicious chocolate caramel pumpkin squares. We explored essential and optional ingredients, plus easy steps to prepare them. I shared tips for a smooth mixture, melting chocolate, and proper storage. We even discussed vegan and gluten-free variations. In conclusion, enjoy customizing these treats to your taste. They are perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!

Chocolate Caramel Pumpkin Squares No Bake

Indulge in the deliciousness of Chocolate Caramel Pumpkin Squares, combining the rich flavors of chocolate and pumpkin for a perfect dessert! With a simple graham cracker crust, creamy pumpkin filling, and a luscious caramel drizzle, these squares will be the star of your next gathering. Ready in just 20 minutes of prep, they need time to chill for the ultimate treat. Click through to explore this mouthwatering recipe and impress your friends!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 cup melted coconut oil

1/4 cup maple syrup

1 cup pumpkin puree

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions
 

In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8x8-inch square pan to form the crust.

    In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.

      Spread the pumpkin mixture over the graham cracker crust layer, smoothing the top with a spatula.

        Drizzle the caramel sauce over the pumpkin layer, spreading it lightly if desired to create a marbled effect.

          In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of the caramel layer for added flavor.

            Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.

              Once set, remove from the fridge, cut into squares, and serve.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours (Plus chilling) | Servings: 16 squares