Caramels
Indulge in the rich, buttery sweetness of homemade caramels, a timeless treat that perfectly balances flavors of brown sugar and vanilla. Ideal for sharing during the holidays or satisfying your sweet tooth, these chewy delights are simple to make and will impress friends and family alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a heavy 3-quart saucepan over medium heat.
- Add brown sugar, salt, and corn syrup; mix well.
- Gradually add condensed milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook until the mixture reaches 245° on a candy thermometer, firm ball stage.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
- Pour into a buttered 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Let stand until cool.
- Cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a candy thermometer to ensure accuracy; the mixture must reach 245° for optimal texture. If you want to experiment, consider replacing the vanilla with almond extract for a different flavor profile. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent burning, and if you find the mixture too thick, a splash of milk can help loosen it slightly as it cooks.
Serving Suggestions
These caramels make a delightful treat on their own or can be used as a topping for desserts like ice cream or brownies. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of coarse sea salt on top before they cool, enhancing their sweet flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them, but make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to soften slightly. You can also wrap individual pieces in wax paper for easy snacking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramels contains roughly 182 calories, with 1g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 12g fat.
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 instead of brown sugar?
While brown sugar is crucial for the caramel's flavor and moisture, you can experiment with light muscovado or coconut sugar for a unique twist. However, white sugar will not yield the same results, as it lacks the molasses that gives brown sugar its distinctive taste.
What should I do if my caramels are too soft?
If your caramels do not set properly, it may be because the mixture didn't reach the correct temperature. To fix soft caramels, you can reheat the batch, bringing it back to 245° and then re-pour it into the pan. Always ensure you have a reliable candy thermometer for accuracy.
How can I make these caramels vegan?
To make these caramels vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy condensed milk option. Coconut milk or almond milk-based condensed milk can work well. Keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change, but you'll still achieve a delicious treat.
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).