Are you craving that rich, buttery, irresistible caramel flavor? Forget store-bought sweets – making caramel from scratch is easier than you think! This recipe uses brown sugar for a deeper, more complex caramel flavor that's simply divine. Perfect for drizzling over ice cream, filling candies, or enjoying on its own, this homemade caramel is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of easy recipes and healthy homemade treats!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup packed light or dark brown sugar (dark brown sugar will yield a richer caramel)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional, but recommended)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze later!
- Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking dish. This is where your finished caramel will cool and set.
Making the Caramel:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and water. Stir gently to combine. Do not rush this step; you want the sugar to dissolve evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, without stirring. This is crucial to prevent crystallization.
- Once boiling, continue to cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the mixture turns a deep amber color, about 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on it! Caramel burns quickly.
- Carefully remove the pan from the heat. This is where caution is key! Working with hot caramel can lead to burns.
- Slowly whisk in the heavy cream. The mixture will bubble vigorously. Be prepared for this and whisk continuously. It's best to do this slowly to prevent splattering.
- Stir in the butter and salt (if using) until completely melted and incorporated.
Cooling and Setting:
- Immediately pour the caramel into your prepared baking dish.
- Let the caramel cool completely at room temperature. This will usually take about 2-3 hours. Resist the urge to rush this step for the best texture.
- Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to fully set.
Tips for Caramel Success:
- Don't stir the sugar and water mixture once it starts to boil: This can cause crystallization.
- Use a light-colored saucepan: This helps you monitor the caramel color more easily.
- Work quickly when adding the cream: The mixture will bubble vigorously.
- Be careful when handling hot caramel: It can cause serious burns.
- For a smoother caramel: Strain the caramel through a fine-mesh sieve after it has cooled slightly.
Variations:
- Salted Caramel: Add a pinch more sea salt or sprinkle flaky sea salt on top after it sets.
- Spiced Caramel: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger to the caramel while it's still warm.
- Chocolate Caramel: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped dark chocolate after removing from the heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the type of brown sugar and the size of your serving. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 12 servings) would be around:
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 12-15g
- Sugar: 25-30g
This caramel recipe is a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious and relatively healthy treat when enjoyed in moderation. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner exploring the world of homemade cooking, this recipe promises a satisfying culinary experience. Enjoy!