Raisin Caramels
Sweet and rich raisin caramels with a hint of vanilla and chocolate, perfect for satisfying cravings and sharing at gatherings or as a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place raisins in buttered 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
- Combine 3/4 cup butter or margarine and 1 cup brown sugar in a saucepan; cook and stir to hard ball stage (254°F).
- Pour the caramel mixture over the raisins in the pan.
- Top with 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate pieces, spreading as they melt.
- Chill until firm; cut into pieces and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a different dried fruit, you can substitute raisins with chopped dried apricots or cranberries. Ensure you cook the caramel mixture to the hard ball stage for the perfect chewy texture. Keep an eye on the temperature to avoid burning. This recipe is inspired by classic American recipes, making it a nostalgic treat.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the caramels into bite-sized pieces for easy serving. These sweet treats pair beautifully with coffee or tea, making them a great dessert after dinner. You can also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. For a unique twist, try serving them with a slice of Harvest Time Dessert for a sweet platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover raisin caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply let them come to room temperature, or briefly warm them in the microwave for a few seconds if they become too firm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Caramels contains roughly 378 calories, with 3g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 623mg per serving (27% 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 a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can use coconut sugar or a granulated sweetener like sucralose as an alternative to brown sugar. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, as brown sugar adds moisture and richness that other sweeteners might not replicate.
What should I do if my caramel doesn't reach the hard ball stage?
If your caramel hasn't reached the hard ball stage, continue cooking it while stirring frequently. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely. If you find it difficult to get there, you can pour the mixture over the raisins at a lower temperature for a softer caramel but be aware the texture will be different.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans can be added to the caramel mixture for extra crunch and flavor. Just fold them in after cooking the caramel and before pouring it over the raisins. This addition will enhance the overall taste and texture of your raisin caramels.
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).