Description
Discover how to make rich, buttery homemade caramels from scratch in just five simple steps. This easy recipe yields soft, chewy caramels with the perfect balance of sweetness and creamy texture, ideal for gifting or indulging yourself.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and unsalted butter.
- Melt and Boil: Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar and butter melt completely and the mixture begins to boil.
- Cook to Temperature: Allow the mixture to boil without stirring, monitoring closely until it reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer for the perfect caramel stage.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Set and Cut: Pour the caramel mixture into a greased pan and let it cool completely at room temperature until firm. Once set, cut into squares to serve.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control to achieve the ideal caramel consistency.
- Grease the pan well or line with parchment paper to easily remove the caramel once set.
- Store caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- Be cautious when adding cream to hot sugar mixture, as it may cause splattering.
- For softer caramels, reduce cooking temperature slightly to around 240°F (116°C).
