Chewy Caramels
Chewy caramel squares with rich, buttery flavor and smooth texture, perfect for caramel lovers and ideal for sharing at gatherings or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except 1 cup of milk and vanilla in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Stir in the remaining 1 cup of milk slowly to maintain boiling.
- Continue boiling until the mixture reaches 250°F (fairly firm, hard ball stage).
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla.
- Pour the caramel into a buttered 3/4-inch pan.
- Allow to cool completely, then cut into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother caramel, ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before boiling, and use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to avoid scorching. If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute the evaporated milk with coconut milk or almond milk. For a different flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or using flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut in addition to the vanilla.
Serving Suggestions
These chewy caramels make a delightful treat on their own or can be used as a topping for desserts like brownies or ice cream. They pair beautifully with Earl'S Favorite Chocolate Pie for a decadent dessert platter. For a special touch, wrap them in colorful wax paper and give them as gifts or party favors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cut caramels in an airtight container at room temperature, layered between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can also be refrigerated for longer shelf life, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving to maintain their chewy texture. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chewy Caramels contains roughly 1192 calories, with 3g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 97g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 804mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
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
What can I do if my caramels are too hard?
If your caramels turn out too hard, it may be due to cooking them beyond the hard ball stage. You can try heating them gently with a splash of milk in a saucepan to soften them. Alternatively, adjust the cooking time next time to ensure they reach the right consistency.
Can I add flavorings to the caramels?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor of your caramels by adding ingredients like a teaspoon of espresso powder, a bit of cinnamon, or even a splash of bourbon or rum after removing them from heat. Just be cautious with the amounts to maintain the texture.
How do I know when my caramels are done cooking?
To determine if your caramels are ready, use a candy thermometer and cook until the mixture reaches 250°F, which is the hard ball stage. If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water; it should form a firm ball that holds its shape.
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).