Sweet Surrender the Ultimate Homemade Caramels
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever feel like treating yourself? You know? Something proper decadent? Let's dive into making Homemade Caramels Candy ! These are rich, buttery squares of heaven, trust me.
Brief Overview
Caramels have been around for yonks, a proper treat enjoyed worldwide. This Easy Caramel Recipe from Scratch is relatively straightforward.
Takes about an hour and yields around thirty six caramels. Perfect for sharing... or not!
Main Benefits
Honestly, the best part is the taste. But there's something so satisfying about making your own sweets. Plus, these Butter Caramels Recipe are great for gifts.
Ready to get started?
Sweet Surrender: The Ultimate Homemade Caramels Candy
Wanna whip up something utterly divine? These aren't your average shop bought sweets. These are melt-in-your mouth Vanilla Caramels Recipe , made with real butter and love. It's time to create something special.
This Homemade Caramel Candies recipe is inspired by classic techniques. It will teach you How To Make Caramel Candy the right way. Patience is key, but the result is worth every second.
I remember one time, trying to rush the cooling process. What a disaster! Sticky caramel everywhere! I learned my lesson the hard way.
How To Make Homemade Caramel is all about taking your time.
These Salted Caramels Recipe are perfect for a special occasion. Fancy giving them as gifts, or just indulging after a long week? It's what I do! The slight saltiness cuts through the sweetness.
Why This Recipe Rocks
What makes my recipe special? It's all about simplicity and quality ingredients. I only use real butter and proper vanilla extract. Forget artificial flavors. Think Old Fashioned Caramel Candy Recipe deliciousness!
These Chewy Caramels Recipe are a bit of a treat. Not exactly a health food, but a little indulgence never hurt anyone.
And honestly, sharing them with friends and family makes it even better. It's like spreading a little joy, one caramel at a time.
Alright, let's dive into the heart of making these scrummy Homemade Caramels Candy ! It's all about the right bits and bobs, innit?
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients for Homemade Caramel Candies
Listen up, getting the measurements spot on is mega important. Trust me, I learned that the hard way! The ingredients are easy, but you must be precise .
- 1 cup ( 227g ) unsalted butter, cut into 1-tablespoon pieces. Go for good quality butter. You can taste the difference.
- 1 cup ( 200g ) granulated sugar.
- 1 cup ( 240ml ) heavy cream. Not the skinny stuff, mind!
- 1/2 cup ( 120ml ) light corn syrup.
- 1/4 teaspoon ( 1.5g ) sea salt. A pinch makes it pop! You can make Salted Caramels Recipe so easily!
- 1 tablespoon ( 15ml ) pure vanilla extract. Real deal, not that fake stuff.
I remember once using margarine instead of butter. Disaster! The caramels were greasy and tasted like, well, margarine. Never again!
Seasoning Notes for Vanilla Caramels Recipe
Okay, so vanilla is classic. However, you can tweak this Caramel Candy Recipe Easy like a pro:
- Vanilla is the queen here. It gives that warm, comforting flavour.
- Salted caramels are all the rage. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt after pouring the caramel into the pan is perfect.
- Flavour enhancers? A touch of cinnamon or a splash of bourbon after removing from the heat gives a great kick.
If you are feeling fancy, a dash of cardamom or even a bit of rosewater can be quite delightful. And hey, if you don't have vanilla extract, almond extract works in a pinch!
Equipment Needed to How To Make Homemade Caramel
Right, let's talk kit. You don't need a fancy lab, but a few bits are essential:
- Heavy bottomed 3-quart saucepan. Light coloured is best for seeing the caramel colour.
- Candy thermometer (essential!). I cannot stress this enough! Under cooked? Too soft. Over cooked? Rock solid.
- 8x8 inch square baking pan.
- Parchment paper. Stops the caramel from sticking.
- Wooden spoon or heat resistant spatula.
No candy thermometer? Honestly, just buy one. A Old Fashioned Caramel Candy Recipe is not worth the risk without it.
But, if you must wing it, look for the "firm ball stage" by dropping a bit into cold water.
Alright, let's get this show on the road! Fancy a bit of Willy Wonka magic in your own kitchen? Homemade Caramels Candy are a classic, and with a bit of patience (and a decent thermometer!), you'll be turning out squares of chewy, buttery bliss that would make even Mary Berry blush.
I can remember when I first tried to make caramel. Honestly, I was a disaster! But don't worry, this recipe is easier than my early attempts.
Sweet Surrender: The Ultimate Homemade Caramels Cooking Method
These aren't your supermarket caramels, mate! We're talking rich, buttery, and melt-in-your mouth caramels, made from scratch with love (and a good dose of sugar).
This recipe focuses on creating a classic vanilla caramel, but we'll also explore exciting variations. Fire up your hob, put on some cracking tunes, and let's get caramelizing to make some Homemade Caramel Candies.
This method is a bit of a process, but trust me, it's well worth the effort. You know, the kind of thing you might make for a special occasion.
Prep Steps: The Essential Mise en Place
- Essential mise en place: Get all your ingredients measured out. Trust me, this is crucial. There's nothing worse than scrambling for cream when your sugar is starting to burn! Line an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Let it overhang on two sides, so it's easier to lift out the caramels later.
- Time saving organization tips: I like to pre-cut my parchment paper and have it ready to go. It saves time and stops panic later. Also, have a bowl with ice water nearby. If the caramel starts to look too dark, you can quickly plunge the bottom of the pan in to stop the cooking process.
- Safety reminders: Caramel is seriously hot stuff! Be super careful when working with it. Avoid splashes. If you get any on your skin, run it under cold water immediately. Always have a candy thermometer when you How To Make Caramel Candy , it is very important.
step-by-step Process: Caramel Nirvana
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides.
- Combine Ingredients: In a heavy bottomed 3-quart saucepan, combine 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter , 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar , 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream , 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup , and 1/4 teaspoon (1.5g) sea salt .
- Cook the Caramel: Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
- Boil to Temperature: Stop stirring and insert a candy thermometer. Cook without stirring, until the mixture reaches 245° F ( 118° C) .
- Remove from Heat & Add Vanilla: Take the pan off the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon (15ml) pure vanilla extract . Careful, it will bubble!
- Pour & Cool: Pour the caramel into the prepared pan. Let it cool completely at room temperature for at least 2- 3 hours.
- Cut & Wrap: Lift the firm caramel out of the pan. Cut into 1 inch squares. Wrap each caramel individually.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Caramel Game
- To make some Salted Caramels Recipe Sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top after pouring. The salty sweet combo is amazing!
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don't stir too much! It can cause grainy caramels. Also, make sure you scrape down the sides of the pan. You want everything to cook evenly.
- make-ahead Options: You can make the caramel a day ahead of time. Just let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Cut and wrap the next day. Now you know How To Make Homemade Caramel .
Honestly, making caramel can feel a bit daunting at first, but once you get the hang of it, you'll be whipping up batches of Easy Caramel Recipe from Scratch in no time.
And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a perfectly chewy, homemade caramel. Plus, you get to impress all your mates with your baking skills.
It's a win-win situation, really.
Recipe Notes for Your Sweet Surrender: The Ultimate Homemade Caramels
Alright, before you dive headfirst into making these delightful Homemade Caramels Candy , let's chat about a few things that’ll make your life easier, and your caramels even more scrummy.
I've learned a thing or two over the years, honestly!
Sweet Serving Suggestions
Presentation is key, right? Plating and presentation are really important. Once your Chewy Caramels Recipe is ready, don't just chuck 'em on a plate.
Imagine you're presenting these on Bake Off ! A simple square of parchment paper, a delicate pile that's the ticket.
These Homemade Caramel Candies pair perfectly with a strong cuppa. Something like a Darjeeling. Or, why not get fancy and serve them with a wee glass of dessert wine? Complementary sides or beverages? Think strong tea or dessert wine!
Savvy Storage Tips
Okay, so you've made a batch of these beauties. Now what? Refrigeration is fine, but these are best at room temp.
Just keep them wrapped tightly in an airtight container. They'll last for about two weeks. Freezing? It's an option if you really want to keep them for longer.
Wrap them individually first. Then, pop them in a freezer bag. For reheating, just let them thaw at room temperature.
Refrigeration guidelines? Airtight container, room temp for two weeks is ideal. Freezing options? Yes! Wrap individually. Reheating instructions? Thaw naturally at room temp.
Variations On A Theme
Fancy a twist? You can try 1-2 dietary adaptations. To make a Vegan Caramels Recipe , swap butter and cream for vegan alternatives.
Flavour might be different. If you're looking for a seasonal twist, try adding a pinch of ground cinnamon and nutmeg in autumn.
Seasonal ingredient swaps and 1-2 dietary adaptations? Cinnamon and nutmeg for autumn, Vegan substitutes.
Nutrition Nuggets
Let's be real, these aren’t health food. But a little treat never hurt anyone. Each caramel clocks in around 80 calories.
You will also find <1g of protein, 5g of fat, 9g of carbs, and 8g of sugar. Enjoy in moderation.
Disclaimer: this is just an estimate . Simplified nutrition information: ~80 calories per caramel. Key health benefits? Pure joy!
So, there you have it. A few extra bits to help you on your quest to make the perfect Easy Caramel Recipe from Scratch .
Don't be scared to experiment and have a bit of fun. Now, go forth and caramelize, my friend! I know you can nail this Old Fashioned Caramel Candy Recipe !
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my Homemade Caramels Candy grainy? That's not cricket!
Grainy caramels are usually caused by sugar crystals forming during the cooking process. Avoid stirring too much after the sugar dissolves, as this can encourage crystallization. Also, make sure your sugar is fully dissolved at the beginning before the mixture starts to boil. A little patience goes a long way!
My caramels are too hard or too soft. What went wrong?
Temperature control is absolutely crucial for Homemade Caramels Candy! Caramels that are too hard were likely cooked to too high a temperature. Use a reliable candy thermometer and aim for exactly 245°F (118°C). Soft caramels, on the other hand, weren't cooked long enough.
Also make sure to let them cool completely.
Can I make salted caramels? Sounds lush!
Absolutely! Salted caramels are a delicious variation. Simply sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of the caramel after you pour it into the prepared pan, while it's still warm. The salt enhances the sweetness and creates a delightful contrast of flavors.
How should I store these delightful Homemade Caramels Candy? Wouldn't want them to go off!
Proper storage will keep your caramels fresh and chewy. Wrap each caramel individually in wax paper or cellophane to prevent them from sticking together. Store the wrapped caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can make them hard.
Are there any substitutions I can make? Bit of a sticky wicket with allergies!
If you're dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with a high-quality vegan butter alternative and the heavy cream with full fat coconut cream, just be aware the flavour will be slightly different. You can substitute corn syrup with golden syrup, or equal amounts of sugar and water cooked to a light amber colour.
But remember, each substitution can slightly alter the final texture and flavour.
Sweet Surrender The Ultimate Homemade Caramels
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 80 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | <1g |