Mrs. Goenner'S Caramels
Sweet, rich caramel candies with a nutty crunch, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or sharing with friends during special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together, except for the chopped nuts, stirring constantly.
- Cook until the mixture reaches 240°F (soft ball stage).
- Add chopped nuts, if desired.
- Pour the caramel mixture into a well-greased cookie sheet.
- Allow to cool and set before cutting into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching the caramel. If you don't have Eagle Brand milk, sweetened condensed milk can be a good substitute. Stir continuously to ensure even cooking. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts, and the caramels will still be delicious. Consider trying variations like adding a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel twist.
Serving Suggestions
These caramels make a perfect treat on their own or can be used as a topping for desserts like ice cream or brownies. They pair beautifully with Grandma'S Pineapple Surprise for a delightful dessert platter. You can also wrap them in colorful cellophane for gifting or serve them at parties as a sweet addition to your dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled and cut, store the caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To keep them from sticking together, separate layers with parchment paper. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual pieces in wax paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Goenner'S Caramels contains roughly 1455 calories, with 8g protein, 172g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value) and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium.
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 can I use instead of Karo syrup?
If you don't have light Karo syrup, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup in equal amounts. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor of your caramels. Additionally, using corn syrup will maintain the texture and sweetness, making it a suitable alternative.
How do I know when the caramel is ready?
The caramel is ready when it reaches the soft ball stage at 240°F. To check this, you can use a candy thermometer or drop a small amount into a glass of cold water; it should form a soft ball that holds its shape but flattens when removed. This ensures the perfect chewy texture.
Can I add flavorings to the caramels?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor of your caramels by adding vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a splash of rum or bourbon after cooking. Just be sure to add these flavorings off the heat to retain their potency and prevent any evaporation during cooking.
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).