Are you craving that rich, gooey, irresistible caramel? Forget store-bought; this Better Homes and Gardens-inspired caramel recipe is incredibly easy to make at home, delivering a flavour that's far superior to anything you can find in the supermarket. It's the perfect addition to your favorite desserts, or simply enjoyed on its own with a spoon! This recipe is a delightful blend of homemade cooking and delicious dishes, perfect for both quick dinner ideas and special occasions. Let's get started on this journey into caramel perfection!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Caramel
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps with easy cleanup later. Trust me, you’ll appreciate it!
- Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan. Stir gently to combine.
- Cook over medium heat, without stirring, until the sugar dissolves and turns a light amber color. This takes patience, but don't rush it! The caramel will develop a beautiful colour and rich flavour.
- Remove from heat immediately. Caramel can burn quickly once it reaches this stage.
Step 2: Adding the Cream and Butter
- Carefully pour in the heavy cream. This will cause the caramel to bubble vigorously. Be cautious and pour slowly, while standing back a little.
- Stir constantly until the caramel is smooth. A whisk works best. It’s important to ensure no lumps remain and that the cream is fully incorporated.
- Stir in the butter and salt until melted and combined. Again, whisk until completely smooth.
Step 3: Cooling and Serving
- Pour the caramel onto the prepared parchment paper. Spread it evenly to desired thickness.
- Allow the caramel to cool completely before cutting and serving. This ensures it sets properly and is easier to handle.
Tips for Caramel Success:
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan: This helps to distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching.
- Don't stir the sugar while it's melting: Stirring introduces impurities which can hinder the caramel’s smooth texture.
- Work quickly once the cream is added: The mixture will continue to cook, even after removing it from the heat.
Variations:
- Salted Caramel: Add a pinch more salt or sprinkle sea salt flakes on top after pouring.
- Chocolate Caramel: Add 1/4 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips during the last minute of cooking. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Spiced Caramel: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, autumnal flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Sugar: 20g
This easy caramel recipe is a great addition to your collection of healthy meals and best recipes. Use it to top ice cream, cakes, brownies, or even drizzle it over popcorn for a unique treat! Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make caramel, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a homemade touch. It's a simple way to elevate your desserts and impress your family and friends with your homemade cooking skills. This recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas, adding a sweet ending to any meal, but is also wonderful on its own!