Soft caramel candies are a timeless treat loved for their rich, buttery flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. These golden bites of sweetness are made by slowly cooking a mixture of sugar, butter, cream, and sometimes corn syrup to the perfect temperature, resulting in a smooth, chewy consistency that’s irresistibly soft without being sticky.
The charm of soft caramels lies in their balance. The slow cooking process allows the sugars to caramelize gently, developing deep, complex flavors with hints of toffee and vanilla. A touch of salt often enhances the sweetness, making salted caramels a popular variation. The final product is poured into a tray, cooled, and then cut into small squares or rectangles, often individually wrapped in wax paper for a nostalgic, homemade feel.
What makes soft caramel candies stand out is their versatility. They can be enjoyed on their own, added to dessert recipes, or melted down for sauces and coatings. Whether you’re savoring them with a cup of coffee or gifting them during the holidays, they bring a sense of warmth and indulgence.
Making soft caramels at home may seem intimidating, but it’s a rewarding process that requires just a few simple ingredients and a candy thermometer. Precision is key—reaching the right temperature (typically between 240°F and 245°F) ensures the ideal soft, chewy texture.
Soft caramel candies evoke comfort and tradition. They’re often associated with festive seasons, handmade gifts, and special moments shared with family and friends. Their buttery richness and gentle sweetness appeal to both kids and adults, making them a universally loved confection.
Whether homemade or store-bought, soft caramel candies continue to be a beloved classic—simple, nostalgic, and completely delicious. Each bite offers a moment of sweet satisfaction that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 cup butter cut into pieces
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, allowing the paper to drape over the edges. Butter the parchment paper lightly.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, condensed milk, and salt. Stir over medium heat until butter is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 245°F (firm-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the hot caramel into the prepared pan. Let it cool completely at room temperature.
- Once cooled, lift the caramel from the pan using the overhanging parchment paper. Cut into small squares or desired shapes.
- Wrap each candy square in wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Nutrition
Soo good, I eat them all. Yummy!
I made these too! They were gone in a day. Sooo delicious! 😋
Not sure about this recipe. These sound way too sweet for me. 🤔
I think its too much sugar. I am trying to cut back on sweets but these were hard to resist.
Not as good as the store-bought ones. Flavor was missing something, maybe more vanilla?
I think we should add nuts maybe? Caramel and nuts go good together!
Nuts would be a great addition! I love the texture they bring. 🌰
I don’t know… adding nuts might mess up the smooth caramel. What if they burn? 🤔
I tried these once, and they were gone in a day. SO addictive!
I completely agree! These candies just disappear! I’ve made them twice and everyone loves them!
Addictive? Sure, but I found them way too sweet for my taste. Not sure I’d make them again.
I don’t know why my batch turned out rock hard 😢. Followed the recipe exactly.
Just a tip, be careful when boiling the mixture! I almost burned my pan 😅
Thanks for the advice! I really want to try making these, but I’m clumsy in the kitchen 😅.
Uh oh! How did you almost burn it? Did you increase the heat too fast? I’m worried I might mess up too.
Not a fan. They taste way too sweet for me.
Making these for a birthday party, hope everyone likes them!
Sounds delicious! I’m sure they’ll love it! 🍬
I’m like the worst cook and even I managed to get these right, thanks for the easy recipe!
It tastes alright, but I got a headache from the sweetness. Too sugary.
These are the best caramels I’ve ever made! So soft and tasty!
I tried this recipe, but my caramels turned out too hard. What did I do wrong?
These caramel candies are AMAZING! Melt in your mouth delicious. Will definitely make again!
Great recipe but can someone tell me what ‘firm-ball stage’ means?🤔
This is so simple! My kids loved them. Perfect for Halloween treats! 🍬
I’m so glad your kids loved the caramel candies! They really are a hit for Halloween. 🎃
Seems easy, but I don’t know if my kids will eat something made from corn syrup. 🤔
Honestly, I was skeptical about using corn syrup, but it worked out!
This recipe is like magic! My kids loved helping me make them.
Just a tip, let it cool in the fridge sooner. I had to wait too long! 🤨