Creating your own Salted Caramel Pumpkin Pie Bars involves several simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly.

2. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish evenly.

3. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 15-18 minutes, or until slightly firm. Remove from the oven and set aside.

4. Make the Pumpkin Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

5. Layer the Filling: Pour the pumpkin filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly across the surface.

6. Bake Pumpkin Filling: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until the filling is set. Allow it to cool while you prepare the salted caramel.

7. Make the Salted Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns a deep amber color. Stir constantly to avoid burning. Once melted, add the butter and stir until combined, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Be careful, as it may bubble up. Add sea salt to taste and let it cool for a few minutes.

8. Drizzle the Caramel: Once both the pumpkin bars and salted caramel are cool, drizzle the caramel sauce over the cooled pumpkin layer. Allow the caramel to set.

9. Chill: Cut the bars into squares, then refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow everything to firm up.

10. Serve and Enjoy: When ready to serve, remove the bars, cut into squares, and enjoy this delightful dessert!