Walnutty Caramels
Rich, buttery caramel candies infused with vanilla and studded with crunchy walnuts, perfect for satisfying sweet tooths and gifting during holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a pan with foil and lightly butter the foil.
- Combine sugar, light corn syrup, and light cream in a saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture reaches the desired caramel temperature.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla.
- Pour the caramel into the prepared pan and let it cool slightly.
- Sprinkle the coarsely chopped walnuts over the caramel and press gently to embed.
- Allow the caramel to cool completely before cutting into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure smooth caramel, use a heavy-bottomed saucepan and maintain a consistent medium heat. If you want to experiment, you can substitute pecans or hazelnuts for walnuts. For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel mixture. Keep an eye on the temperature to avoid burning, as caramel can quickly go from perfect to overdone.
Serving Suggestions
These walnutty caramels make a delightful treat on their own or as a sweet addition to dessert platters. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea. For a fun twist, try drizzling melted chocolate over the top or serving them alongside a slice of Apple Or Cherry Bread for a delicious contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To prevent sticking, you can layer pieces of wax paper between them. If you need to reheat, do so gently in a microwave or on the stove over low heat, being careful not to scorch them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnutty Caramels contains roughly 1476 calories, with 4g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 temperature should the caramel reach for the perfect consistency?
The caramel should reach a temperature of about 240°F (115°C) for a soft, chewy texture. Using a candy thermometer is highly recommended to ensure accuracy. If you prefer firmer caramels, you can let it reach 245°F (118°C).
Can I make these caramels in advance?
Absolutely! These caramels can be made up to two weeks in advance. Just make sure to store them properly in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They also make great gifts if wrapped nicely!
What can I use instead of light corn syrup?
If you don't have light corn syrup on hand, you can substitute with an equal amount of honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup. Just keep in mind that these alternatives may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the 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).