Great Grandma Clark'S Chocolate Caramels
Rich and decadent chocolate caramel candies with crunchy nuts, perfect for gifting or satisfying sweet cravings, appealing to chocolate lovers and those who enjoy homemade confections.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup butter ⓘ
- 3/4 cup white Karo syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla ⓘ
- 1 can Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk ⓘ
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup chopped walnuts ⓘ
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 squares semi-sweet chocolate ⓘ
- margarine (to grease pan) ⓘ
- 2 tubes almond paste (3 1/2 oz. each) ⓘ
- 2 squares semi-sweet chocolate (1 oz. each), melted and cooled ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1 to 2 tablespoons powdered sugar ⓘ
Instructions
- Thoroughly mix together almond paste, chocolate, and chopped almonds.
- Knead on a surface sprinkled with 1 to 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until of uniform color and consistency.
- Shape the mixture into a 6-inch long roll.
- Roll the roll in powdered sugar.
- Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours.
- Slice the roll into 1/4-inch thick pieces to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the almond paste is at room temperature before mixing. If you can't find almond paste, you can substitute it with marzipan, but be aware of the sweetness difference. When kneading, use a light dusting of powdered sugar to prevent sticking. This recipe can also be adapted for different nuts like pecans or hazelnuts for a unique flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate caramels are perfect for gifting or serving at parties. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. They can also be enjoyed alongside desserts like the Easy, Never Fail Fruitcake for a sweet platter. Consider adding fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a complete dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sliced chocolate caramels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag, where they'll last for up to three months. Allow them to thaw in the fridge before serving to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Grandma Clark'S Chocolate Caramels contains roughly 268 calories, with 4g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 17g 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
Can I use a different type of chocolate for this recipe?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate depending on your preference. Keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust the sugar accordingly if you choose a sweeter chocolate.
How can I make these caramels vegan?
To make vegan chocolate caramels, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a vegan chocolate brand. Ensure the almond paste is vegan-friendly as well. This will allow you to enjoy the flavors without any animal products.
What should I do if the mixture is too sticky?
If the mixture becomes too sticky while kneading, simply add a bit more powdered sugar to your work surface or directly to the mixture. This will help manage the stickiness and allow you to shape it more easily.
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).