Grandma'S Caramels
Creamy, rich caramel candies with deep brown sugar flavor and smooth vanilla finish, perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt the butter.
- Stir in the brown sugar and salt until well combined.
- Add the light corn syrup and mix well.
- Add the Eagle Brand milk, stirring constantly.
- Continue stirring and cook to 245°F (firm ball stage).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
- Pour into a 9-inch buttered pan.
- When cold, cut into squares and wrap.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother caramel, ensure the butter is fully melted before adding the other ingredients. If you prefer a less sweet version, consider reducing the brown sugar slightly. You can substitute the light corn syrup with maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Always use a candy thermometer for accuracy to achieve the perfect firm ball stage.
Serving Suggestions
These caramels make a delightful treat on their own or can be paired with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon snack. They also make excellent gifts when wrapped in decorative packaging. For a fun twist, try drizzling them over vanilla ice cream or serving alongside slices of Hazel'S Sweet Potato Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cut caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them, ensuring they are well wrapped to prevent drying out. To enjoy them again, let them come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Caramels contains roughly 169 calories, with 0g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 9g 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
How do I know when the caramels are done cooking?
The caramels are done when they reach 245°F on a candy thermometer, which is the firm ball stage. If you don't have a thermometer, you can test by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water; it should form a firm ball when ready.
Can I use a different type of milk in this recipe?
While Eagle Brand milk is recommended for its creaminess, you can use evaporated milk as a substitute. However, this may slightly alter the final texture and flavor, so keep that in mind when making your caramels.
What can I do if my caramels are too sticky?
If your caramels are too sticky, they may not have cooked long enough to reach the firm ball stage. Next time, ensure you use a candy thermometer to check the temperature accurately. If they are already made, you can dust them lightly with powdered sugar to reduce stickiness.
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).