Homemade caramels are a sweet, indulgent treat that is surprisingly easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create rich, buttery caramels that melt in your mouth and offer that perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of saltiness. These homemade caramels are perfect for holiday gifting, party favors, or satisfying your own sweet tooth.
To make homemade caramels, you start with basic ingredients: butter, heavy cream, sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. The key to making perfect caramels is in the technique. The sugar, butter, and corn syrup are combined and heated over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil. It’s important to stir constantly to prevent the sugar from burning and to help the mixture cook evenly.
Once the mixture reaches a boil, you need to carefully monitor the temperature using a candy thermometer. The ideal temperature for soft caramels is around 240°F (115°C), or the “soft ball stage.” At this point, you add the heavy cream, a little at a time, continuing to cook the mixture until it thickens to a smooth consistency. The addition of cream gives the caramels their rich, creamy texture.
Once the caramel has reached the desired temperature and consistency, it is removed from the heat and a splash of vanilla extract is stirred in for flavor. For an extra touch, you can also add a pinch of sea salt to make salted caramels, which add a savory contrast to the sweetness.
The caramel mixture is then poured into a lined baking dish and allowed to cool at room temperature. Once fully set, the caramel is cut into small squares and wrapped in wax paper for a classic look or in plastic wrap for easy gifting. The result is soft, buttery caramels that are perfect for snacking or sharing.
Homemade caramels are a perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating the holidays, creating a homemade gift, or just enjoying a delicious candy on a quiet afternoon. The best part? They’re customizable – feel free to experiment with different flavors, such as adding chocolate swirls or infusing the caramels with a bit of bourbon or coffee for a more complex flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar white
- 1 cup unsalted butter cut into pieces
- 2 cups heavy cream preferably organic
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract pure
Instructions
- Prepare an 8-inch square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper and lightly buttering the paper.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, cream, and corn syrup over medium heat.
- Stir the mixture constantly until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
- Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, making sure the tip is submerged but not touching the bottom.
- Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it reaches 245°F (118°C). This should take about 30-40 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the hot caramel mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Let the caramel cool completely at room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the caramel into small squares and wrap each piece in wax paper.
Nutrition
I tried this recipe, but my caramel turned out like a big blob. I followed the instructions, but I’m not sure what went wrong. Anyone got tips?
These caramels are AMAZING! I don’t think I’ll ever buy store-bought again! Just perfect. 😍