Imagine creating restaurant-quality caramel candies right in your own kitchen with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. These mouthwatering, golden-brown treats are about to transform your dessert game forever! Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this easy homemade caramel candy recipe will have you impressing friends and family with your culinary prowess in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 36 pieces
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal. Lightly butter the parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a heavy-bottomed medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, unsalted butter, heavy cream, and corn syrup. Use a pan with high sides to prevent potential boiling over.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture continuously with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Stop stirring and allow the mixture to come to a boil. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, aiming to reach 240-245°F (soft ball stage).
- Once the mixture reaches the correct temperature, carefully remove the pan from heat. Quickly stir in vanilla extract and salt, mixing thoroughly but gently.
- Immediately pour the hot caramel into the prepared parchment-lined pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Allow the caramel to cool at room temperature for 2-3 hours, or until it becomes firm but still slightly soft.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the caramel slab out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
- Using a sharp, buttered knife, cut the caramel into approximately 36 small rectangular pieces.
- Wrap individual caramels in wax paper or cellophane twists for storage. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Tips
- Use a reliable candy thermometer to ensure precise temperature control - this is crucial for achieving the perfect soft ball stage.
- Choose a heavy-bottomed saucepan to distribute heat evenly and prevent burning.
- Stir ingredients carefully and continuously during the initial heating to help sugar dissolve smoothly.
- Allow caramels to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat edges.
- Butter your knife before cutting to prevent sticking and create smooth candy pieces.
- Store caramels individually wrapped to maintain freshness and prevent them from sticking together.
- For extra flavor variation, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or experimenting with different extract flavors like almond or maple.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
