Waverly Caramels
Waverly Caramels are crispy, buttery treats topped with nuts, perfect for satisfying sweet and salty cravings and ideal for sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place Waverly crackers tightly together on a large 13 x 15-inch cookie sheet.
- In a saucepan, melt 2 sticks of butter with 1/2 cup sugar and bring to a boil.
- Boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the crackers without stirring.
- Cover evenly with 1 cup of broken pecans or walnuts.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you're out of Waverly crackers, you can substitute with saltine crackers or graham crackers. Ensure the butter and sugar boil for exactly two minutes to achieve the right consistency; too long can make the caramel hard. Remember to watch closely while baking to avoid burning the nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These Waverly caramels are perfect as a sweet snack or dessert. Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. For a fun twist, consider serving with a side of Hot Or Cold Layered Potato Salad to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Waverly caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a softer texture, you can refrigerate them. To reheat, place them in a warm oven for a few minutes until slightly softened, but avoid overheating to maintain their chewy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Waverly Caramels contains roughly 959 calories, with 6g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 101g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. It also contributes 7g 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
Can I make these caramels ahead of time?
Absolutely! Waverly caramels can be made a few days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container as mentioned. Their flavor often improves after a day as the ingredients meld together, making them an ideal choice for parties or gatherings.
What can I use instead of pecans or walnuts?
If you prefer a different nut, feel free to use almonds, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even coverage and texture in the caramels.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe! Just make sure to use a larger baking sheet to accommodate the extra crackers and caramel. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary slightly with a larger batch.
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).