Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a treat that's both incredibly easy to make and unbelievably rewarding? Then get ready to dive into the world of homemade caramels with sea salt! This recipe delivers that perfect balance of sweet and salty, creamy and crunchy, making it an ideal homemade gift or a delightful indulgence for yourself. Forget store-bought – once you taste these, you'll never go back! These caramels are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, and they're surprisingly simple to whip up, even for beginner cooks. Let’s get started on this journey to deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the caramels out later. This simple step makes removing your finished caramels a breeze.
Making the Caramel:
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In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan (this is crucial for even cooking!), combine the butter, sugar, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Don't rush this step; patience is key to perfectly smooth caramels.
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Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and continue to cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the mixture turns a rich amber color. This takes about 10-15 minutes and requires careful attention – it can burn quickly! Use a candy thermometer if you have one, aiming for 245-250°F (118-121°C).
Finishing Touches:
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Carefully pour in the heavy cream (it will bubble up vigorously!), whisking constantly to prevent splattering. Be cautious – the mixture will be extremely hot.
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Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Stir in the sea salt and vanilla extract.
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Pour the caramel into your prepared baking dish and let it cool completely at room temperature. This can take several hours, or you can speed up the process by refrigerating it for about 2 hours.
Cutting and Serving:
- Once the caramel is completely cool and set, lift it out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if desired. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips for Success:
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan: This prevents burning and ensures even cooking.
- Don't rush the cooking process: Patience is crucial for achieving the perfect caramel color and consistency.
- Be careful when adding the cream: It will bubble up vigorously, so whisk constantly to avoid burns.
- Let the caramel cool completely: This prevents it from being sticky and ensures easy cutting.
Variations:
- Dark Chocolate Caramels: Stir in ½ cup of chopped dark chocolate along with the vanilla extract.
- Spiced Caramels: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the mixture along with the salt and vanilla.
- Coffee Caramels: Add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder or a shot of strong coffee.
Nutritional Information (per square, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 6-8g
- Sugar: 12-15g
Enjoy these delightful, easy-to-make caramels! They’re the perfect treat for any occasion, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let me know how yours turn out in the comments below!