These rich, buttery, and chewy caramels are a classic treat. They’re perfect for snacking, gifting, or adding to other desserts.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan: Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, sugar, and corn syrup. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
- Add Cream and Salt: Stir in the heavy cream and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Cook to Soft Ball Stage: Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage (235-245°F or 112-118°C on a candy thermometer). If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test by dropping a small amount of the caramel into a bowl of cold water. It should form a soft ball that flattens when you remove it from the water.
- Stir in Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour into Pan: Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Cool and Set: Let the caramel cool completely at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until firm. You can also refrigerate it to speed up the setting process.
- Cut and Wrap: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the caramel out of the pan. Cut it into squares or rectangles. Wrap each piece in waxed paper or cellophane.
Tips and Variations:
- Flavor Variations: Add other extracts like almond, maple, or rum.
- Salted Caramel: Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the caramel before it sets.
- Chocolate Caramel: Drizzle melted chocolate over the caramel or dip the caramel pieces in chocolate.
- Nuts: Add chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the caramel.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or other spices to the caramel.
- Storage: Store the caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Chewy Caramel!