Cream Caramel
Cream Caramel offers a rich, nutty caramel flavor with a smooth texture, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a decadent treat with crunchy pecans and luscious caramel.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a square 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
- Spread chopped pecans into the prepared pan.
- In a saucepan, heat sugar, light corn syrup, margarine, and 1 cup of half and half over medium heat to boiling, stirring constantly.
- Stir in the remaining half and half.
- Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 245°F (firm ball stage).
- Immediately pour the caramel over the nuts in the pan and spread evenly.
- Allow to cool, then cut into squares to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for margarine. If you don't have half and half, you can create a substitute by mixing equal parts whole milk and heavy cream. To avoid crystallization, ensure that all utensils and the pan are clean before starting and avoid stirring once the mixture begins to boil. Use a candy thermometer for accurate results, as achieving the firm ball stage is crucial for the right texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cream caramel squares as a delightful dessert on their own or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. These treats pair wonderfully with coffee or a cup of tea. For an impressive presentation, consider drizzling some chocolate sauce on top or serving them with fresh berries for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cream caramel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate for up to two weeks. To reheat, place the squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until just warm. This will help soften the caramel for easier serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Caramel contains roughly 440 calories, with 5g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. 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 nut instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans are delicious, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Just ensure the nuts are chopped and spread evenly in the pan to create a balanced flavor profile in your cream caramel.
What is the best way to cut the caramel into squares?
For clean cuts, allow the caramel to cool completely in the pan. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the squares, and lightly oil the blade to prevent sticking. Wipe the knife between cuts for the best results.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, cream caramel can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure it is stored properly in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld and can enhance the overall taste. Just remember to allow some time to reheat before serving.
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).