Jeannette'S Caramels
Rich and buttery caramel candies with a hint of vanilla and nuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing with friends during special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy pan, heat the Karo corn syrup until it boils.
- Add the oleo (butter) and bring to a boil again.
- Add the granulated sugar and continue boiling.
- Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat and cook until the mixture reaches soft ball stage (firm).
- Remove from heat, then stir in vanilla and nuts.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered pan and let it cool.
- Cut into pieces once cooled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother caramel, ensure your butter is at room temperature before adding it to the boiling syrup. If you want to substitute ingredients, light corn syrup can replace Karo, and you can use coconut or almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique flavor. Keep a candy thermometer handy to achieve the perfect soft ball stage, which is crucial for the texture.
Serving Suggestions
These caramels make a delightful treat on their own, but they can also be served alongside desserts like Savannah Pecan Pie for a sweet touch. Consider adding them to gift baskets or using them as toppings for ice cream. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, cut the caramels into pieces and wrap them individually in wax paper to prevent sticking. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jeannette'S Caramels contains roughly 137 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value).
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 different types of nuts in the caramels?
Absolutely! Pecans, walnuts, or almonds can all add unique flavors and textures to your caramels. Just make sure to chop them finely before adding to the mixture, and toast them lightly for enhanced flavor.
What should I do if my caramels are too hard?
If your caramels turn out too hard, they may have been cooked too long. To soften them, you can try microwaving a piece for a few seconds or placing them in a sealed container with a slice of bread overnight. The moisture from the bread will help soften the caramels.
How can I make my caramels more flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor of your caramels by adding a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel variation or using flavored extracts like almond or maple in place of vanilla. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite balance!
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).