Wrapped Caramels
Rich, buttery caramel candies studded with crunchy pecans offer a sweet, nutty treat perfect for gifting or satisfying a homemade confection craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the mixture slowly until a soft ball forms at 240° on a candy thermometer.
- Add vanilla and pecans to the caramel mixture.
- Pour into a buttered pan; let cool and then cut into 3/4-inch squares.
- Wrap each square in wax paper for storage or gifting.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your caramels turn out perfectly, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely, as overcooking can make them hard. If you prefer a different nut flavor, walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans. For a fun twist, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel mixture for a salted caramel version.
Serving Suggestions
These wrapped caramels make a delightful treat on their own but can also be paired with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy dessert experience. For a fun presentation, serve them alongside Sissy Cookies for a sweet platter, perfect for gifting or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store the wrapped caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving to soften slightly. Avoid freezing as it may affect their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wrapped Caramels contains roughly 2314 calories, with 13g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 194g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 12g 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 use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can experiment with different sugars. Using all brown sugar will give a richer flavor, while a mix of granulated and coconut sugar can add a unique touch. Just keep in mind that it may alter the final texture slightly.
What if I don't have a candy thermometer?
If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the caramel by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a soft ball, it's ready. This method requires careful attention, so make sure to time it accurately to avoid overcooking.
How can I make these caramels more festive?
To add a festive touch, consider mixing in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or using colorful wrappers. Dipping the cooled caramels in chocolate can also create a delicious variation that’s perfect for holiday gifting or special occasions.
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).