Best Homemade Caramels Recipe
Indulge in the sweet delight of homemade caramels with this easy-to-follow recipe that will have you savoring every rich and buttery bite. Making your own caramels at home allows you to customize the flavor and quality of the ingredients, resulting in a decadent treat that is simply irresistible. These Best Homemade Caramels are perfect for gifting or enjoying as a luxurious treat for yourself. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create these mouthwatering goodies.
Title: Best Homemade Caramels Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Sea salt flakes (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions:
1. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the caramels later. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter and set aside.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Stir in the granulated sugar and light corn syrup until well combined. Insert a candy thermometer into the saucepan, making sure it doesn’t touch the bottom of the pan. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the thermometer reads 245°F (118°C) – the soft ball stage.
4. Once the caramel reaches the soft ball stage, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Be careful as the mixture will be very hot.
5. Pour the hot caramel mixture into the prepared baking dish. Let it cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle sea salt flakes on top if desired for a delicious contrast of flavors.
6. Allow the caramels to cool at room temperature for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight until completely set. Once set, use a sharp knife to cut the caramel into small squares or rectangles.
7. Wrap the individual caramels in wax paper or parchment paper for a lovely presentation or store them in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Enjoy the rich, buttery goodness of these homemade caramels as a delightful treat anytime.
These Best Homemade Caramels are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection, perfect for sharing with friends and family or treating yourself to a moment of pure indulgence. Experiment with different variations by adding nuts, chocolate drizzle, or a sprinkle of fleur de sel on top for a gourmet touch. Get creative with packaging and give these caramels as thoughtful gifts for any occasion. Discover the joy of making your own candies at home with this simple and rewarding recipe.