Are you craving that rich, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth caramel but want to avoid corn syrup? You're in luck! This recipe delivers all the caramel goodness without relying on corn syrup, making it a healthier and equally delicious alternative. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for beginner cooks looking to expand their homemade candy repertoire, and a delightful treat for experienced bakers wanting a refined, classic caramel. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant recipe, a perfect addition to your homemade cooking adventures. This recipe is perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas or simply a sweet indulgence after a healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Caramel
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and water. Do not stir!
- Let the mixture come to a boil, swirling the pan occasionally to encourage even cooking. Avoid stirring directly, as this can cause crystallization.
- Continue to cook, swirling gently, until the sugar dissolves completely and turns into a beautiful amber color. This takes patience and careful observation; the color change is gradual.
Step 2: Adding Cream and Butter
- Once the caramel reaches a deep amber hue, carefully pour in the heavy cream. Caution: The mixture will bubble vigorously! It’s best to pour slowly and keep a safe distance from the pan.
- Whisk constantly to prevent scorching and to ensure the cream is fully incorporated into the caramel.
- Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Stir in the butter pieces, one at a time, until they are completely melted and incorporated.
Step 3: Seasoning and Finishing
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the salt and vanilla extract (if using). The salt balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Pour the caramel into a lightly greased 8x8 inch baking dish or individual molds.
- Let the caramel cool completely at room temperature before cutting and serving. This allows it to set properly.
Tips for Success:
- Use a good quality saucepan: A heavy-bottomed saucepan helps to prevent scorching and ensures even heating.
- Don't rush the process: Patience is key when making caramel. Take your time to achieve the perfect color and avoid burning the sugar.
- Watch the color closely: The caramel's color will deepen rapidly once it starts to caramelize, so keep a close eye on it.
- Safety first: Always use caution when working with hot sugar. Wear oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.
Variations:
- Sea Salt Caramel: Sprinkle extra sea salt flakes on top of the cooled caramel for a salty-sweet treat.
- Chocolate Caramel: Drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the cooled caramel for an irresistible combination.
- Nutty Caramel: Stir in chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, after incorporating the butter.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the number of servings. A rough estimate per serving (assuming 16 servings) is: Calories: approximately 150, Fat: 8g, Sugar: 18g. For precise nutritional information, use a nutritional calculator with the exact ingredients and portion size.
This easy caramel candy recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes achieved with simple homemade cooking techniques. It's a great way to enjoy a classic treat without the added sugars and preservatives often found in store-bought versions. Enjoy!