Chris' Caramels
Creamy, buttery caramel squares with rich sweetness and smooth texture, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or sharing with friends during special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook all the ingredients, except the vanilla, to the soft ball stage, or 235°F.
- Remove from heat; add vanilla.
- Pour into a buttered 8-inch pan.
- When cold, turn out and cut into squares.
- Wrap each square individually in wax paper or plastic wrap.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect soft ball stage, use a candy thermometer for accuracy. If you don’t have light corn syrup, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup, although this may slightly alter the flavor. For a unique twist, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a splash of bourbon for depth. Ensure your pan is well-buttered to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
These caramels make a delightful treat on their own or can be served alongside coffee or tea for a sweet pairing. For an indulgent dessert, try them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair beautifully with Scrumptious Chocolate Cake or as a topping on Banana Nut Tea Bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cut caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If the weather is humid, consider refrigerating them to maintain their firmness. To reheat, place a few caramels in the microwave for a few seconds until just warm, making them easier to unwrap without sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chris' Caramels contains roughly 1054 calories, with 2g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% 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
Can I use a different type of milk in this recipe?
Yes, you can use any milk substitute, such as almond milk or oat milk, but keep in mind that this may change the texture and flavor of the caramels slightly. Whole milk will yield the creamiest results, while low-fat options may produce a firmer candy.
What should I do if my caramels are too hard?
If your caramels turn out too hard, they may have been cooked too long. To soften them, you can try microwaving them in short bursts or placing them in a warm, humid environment for a few hours. Next time, monitor the temperature closely and remove them from heat at the soft ball stage.
How can I add flavor variations to these caramels?
You can customize your caramels by adding different flavor extracts such as peppermint, almond, or even citrus zest when you incorporate the vanilla. For a richer flavor, consider mixing in chocolate chips or nuts before pouring the mixture 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).