Creamy Caramels
Creamy caramels are rich, buttery confections with a deep caramel flavor, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and suitable for gift-giving or indulging oneself.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, salt, and corn syrup in a large heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil.
- Cook to the firm ball stage (245° on candy thermometer), stirring occasionally.
- Add butter and half and half gradually so that the mixture continues to boil.
- Cook, stirring constantly until the mixture returns to 245°.
- Remove from heat.
- Add vanilla, mixing well.
- Pour into a buttered 9-inch square baking pan.
- Cool; turn onto waxed paper.
- Cut into 3/4 inch squares. Wrap squares in waxed paper.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect texture, it's crucial to monitor the temperature closely while cooking the caramel mixture. If you don't have half and half, you can substitute with equal parts whole milk and heavy cream. Make sure to use a heavy saucepan to prevent burning, and consider adding a dash of vanilla extract for extra flavor when serving. For a unique twist, try pairing these with the flavors found in Sweet Berry Bread.
Serving Suggestions
These creamy caramels make a delightful treat on their own, but they can also be served alongside coffee or hot chocolate for a comforting dessert experience. For a festive touch, consider wrapping them in colorful wax paper and giving them as gifts. They pair beautifully with desserts like Red Velvet Party Cake or even as an indulgent topping on ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cut caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a warm climate, you might want to refrigerate them to prevent stickiness. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave in short intervals, or place them in a warm oven to soften slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Caramels contains roughly 121 calories, with 0g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 5g 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
What should I do if my caramels are too sticky?
If your caramels are too sticky, it may be due to undercooking them. Ensure that you reach the firm ball stage at 245°F when cooking. If they are already made, you can refrigerate them to firm up a bit, but they may still be softer than desired.
Can I add flavorings to the caramels?
Absolutely! You can add flavorings like vanilla, almond, or even a hint of sea salt after removing the mixture from heat. Just mix well before pouring into the baking pan. Experimenting with flavors can elevate the caramels and make them even more delightful.
How can I prevent the caramels from sticking together?
To prevent caramels from sticking together, ensure they are completely cooled and wrapped individually in wax paper. You can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar or cornstarch before wrapping to help reduce stickiness. Storing them in an airtight container can also help maintain their texture.
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).