Heavenly Caramels
Indulge in silky, buttery caramels studded with crunchy walnuts, a luscious treat that balances sweet and nutty tones—perfect for holiday gifts or dessert tables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2‑quart glass measuring cup, combine 1 cup sugar, 1 cup heavy cream, ¾ cup light corn syrup, and ¼ cup butter.
- Microwave on High for 5 minutes.
- Stir well until the sugar dissolves.
- Microwave on High for 12 to 13 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 246°F.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1½ cups coarsely chopped walnuts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother caramel, ensure that the sugar fully dissolves before cooking. If you don't have heavy cream, you can substitute with half-and-half, though the texture may be slightly less creamy. If you're allergic to walnuts, feel free to use pecans or leave them out entirely. Cooking times can vary by microwave; use a candy thermometer for best results.
Serving Suggestions
These heavenly caramels can be enjoyed on their own or used as a topping for desserts like ice cream or brownies. They pair beautifully with Buttery Brie With Walnuts for a sweet and savory experience. Consider wrapping them as gifts for holidays or special occasions for a delightful treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store the caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To prevent them from sticking together, you can layer them with parchment paper. If you want to enjoy them warm, briefly microwave for 5-10 seconds, checking frequently to avoid melting.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Heavenly Caramels contains roughly 639 calories, with 2g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber.
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 caramel is too hard?
If your caramel turns out too hard after cooling, you can reheat it gently in the microwave with a splash of heavy cream to soften it. Stir well until smooth, and be careful not to overheat as it can become too runny.
Can I make these caramels without corn syrup?
Yes, you can substitute the corn syrup with honey or maple syrup, though this may alter the flavor slightly. Keep in mind that corn syrup helps prevent crystallization, so the texture may differ.
How can I tell when the caramel is ready?
The caramel is ready when it reaches 246°F on a candy thermometer, which is known as the hard-ball stage. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can drop a small amount into cold water; it should form a firm ball that holds its shape.
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).