Buttery Caramels
Rich, buttery caramel squares with toasted walnut bits, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at gatherings. Smooth, chewy, and irresistibly flavorful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a medium to heavy saucepan.
- Combine brown sugar, corn syrup, sweetened condensed milk, and butter in the saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Boil for 30 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and chopped walnuts (if using).
- Pour the caramel mixture into a well buttered 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Let the caramel cool completely.
- Cut into squares and wrap each piece in waxed paper.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure you stir constantly while boiling to prevent the caramel from burning. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts. For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the mixture. For a twist, try incorporating a teaspoon of espresso powder, which can enhance the caramel's depth.
Serving Suggestions
These buttery caramels make a delightful treat on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving them alongside a slice of Molasses Apple Pie or as a sweet addition to gift baskets. For a fun presentation, arrange them in decorative boxes or bags for special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the caramel to cool completely before storing. Wrap each piece in waxed paper and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttery Caramels contains roughly 1435 calories, with 23g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. It also contributes 6g 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 light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Yes, you can use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly less robust, but it will still yield delicious caramel. Just ensure to pack it firmly in the measuring cup for accurate measurements.
What can I do if my caramel doesn't set properly?
If your caramel is too soft, it may not have reached the right temperature during cooking. You can return it to the saucepan and reheat it, boiling it for a few more minutes until it reaches a firmer consistency. Always use a candy thermometer to check for the soft ball stage, around 240°F (115°C).
Can I use different types of nuts in the recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts add a nice crunch, you can substitute them with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just chop them roughly before adding to the caramel. This customization allows you to tailor the flavor to your liking or dietary needs.
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).