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To elevate your Caramel Pumpkin Trifles to a new level of indulgence, consider incorporating a sprinkle of sea salt to create a salted caramel effect. This addition balances the sweetness of the caramel, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dessert. Simply sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the caramel layer before adding the whipped cream. The contrasting flavors will delight your palate, making each bite a rich and savory experience. Salted caramel is not just a trend but a timeless flavor combination that complements the warm spices of pumpkin beautifully.

Caramel Pumpkin Trifles

Embrace the flavors of fall with this mouthwatering Caramel Pumpkin Trifles recipe! Perfect for cozy gatherings, this dessert layers creamy pumpkin puree, rich caramel sauce, and airy whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Packed with the warm spices of autumn, it's a delightful fusion of taste and texture that will impress your guests. Discover how to create this stunning dessert, along with tips for presentation and personalization. Enjoy a sweet slice of seasonal magic!
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Ingredients
  

For the Pumpkin Layer:

1 cup canned pumpkin puree

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

For the Caramel Sauce:

1 cup granulated sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for salted caramel)

For the Whipped Cream:

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Layering:

2 cups ginger cookies, crushed (or any spiced cookie of your choice)

1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pumpkin Layer:

    - In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice.

      - Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

        Make the Caramel Sauce:

          - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon until the sugar dissolves and turns a golden amber color.

            - Once the sugar has melted completely, carefully add the cubed butter. The mixture will bubble up, so stir until the butter is fully melted.

              - Gradually add the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until thickened slightly. Remove from the heat and stir in the sea salt if using. Allow to cool slightly.

                Whip the Cream:

                  - In a separate bowl, combine heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.

                    - Whip with an electric mixer on high speed until soft peaks form (be careful not to over-whip).

                      Assemble the Trifles:

                        - In clear dessert cups or glasses, start layering with crushed ginger cookies to create the base.

                          - Add a generous layer of the pumpkin mixture followed by a drizzle of caramel sauce.

                            - Next, add a layer of whipped cream on top.

                              - Repeat the layers until your glass is nearly full, finishing with a dollop of whipped cream.

                                Garnish and Serve:

                                  - Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top layer of whipped cream.

                                    - Sprinkle with crushed nuts if desired for an added crunch.

                                      - Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

                                        Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 6