Butterscotch Caramels(Takes 3 To 4 Hours Sometimes, Depending On The Weather)
Rich, buttery butterscotch caramels with crunchy pecans deliver a perfect sweet treat, ideal for candy lovers and special occasions requiring indulgent homemade confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 1/2 pint of cream, sugar, and corn syrup in a heavy pan over low heat; stir constantly until combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the remaining cream and butter very slowly to maintain a steady boil.
- Lower the heat and cook at a slow boil until the mixture reaches the firm ball stage, 246° to 248° Fahrenheit.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly in a well-buttered glass pan.
- Add vanilla to the hot caramel mixture, then pour it over the nuts in the pan.
- Allow the caramel to cool at room temperature until set.
- Cut into small pieces with sharp scissors and individually wrap in wax paper.
- Store the wrapped caramels in the refrigerator.
- Serve cold for the best taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream is at room temperature before adding it to the sugar mixture. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can make great substitutes. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent burning, especially if the weather is humid, which can affect the cooking time. Using a candy thermometer can help you achieve the perfect firm ball stage.
Serving Suggestions
These butterscotch caramels make a delightful treat on their own or can be used as an indulgent topping for desserts like ice cream sundaes. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider gifting them alongside a batch of Homemade Butter Mints. They also complement a dessert platter featuring Aunt Catherine's Pound Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Once the caramels are wrapped in wax paper, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They can last for several weeks if kept cool. Avoid leaving them at room temperature for too long, as they might become too soft. If they harden too much, you can gently warm them in your hands before unwrapping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butterscotch Caramels(Takes 3 To 4 Hours Sometimes, Depending On The Weather) contains roughly 641 calories, with 4g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sugar in this recipe?
While granulated sugar is best for achieving the right texture, you can experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. However, this may alter the final texture and color of the caramels, making them softer and darker. Stick to white sugar for optimal results.
What should I do if my caramel didn't set properly?
If your caramel remains too soft, it may not have reached the correct temperature. You can reheat the mixture gently, bringing it back to the firm ball stage, then pour it into the pan again. Ensure you use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely next time.
Can I add flavorings to the caramels?
Absolutely! You can infuse the caramels with flavors like sea salt, cinnamon, or even espresso powder to complement the butterscotch. Just add your chosen flavoring at the end after removing the caramel from heat, mixing it in thoroughly before pouring it into the pan.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).