Indulge in the delightful world of soft, chewy caramels, a classic confection that has captivated taste buds for centuries. These delectable treats, often enjoyed during festive occasions or as a sweet indulgence, are characterized by their rich, buttery flavor, smooth texture, and irresistible chewiness. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the art of crafting homemade caramels, providing you with step-by-step instructions and valuable tips to ensure perfect results every time. From classic caramels to variations infused with tantalizing flavors, discover the secrets to creating these irresistible sweets in the comfort of your own kitchen. Embrace the joy of caramel making and treat yourself and your loved ones to these delectable treasures.
Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!
SOFT 'N' CHEWY CARAMELS
This candy is a must at our house for Christmas. I made these caramels with my children, and now I enjoy making them with our eight grandchildren, too. -Darlene Edinger, Turtle Lake, North Dakota
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Desserts
Time 35m
Yield 2 pounds.
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Line a 13x9-in. pan with foil; grease foil with 2 teaspoons butter. Cube remaining butter. In a Dutch oven, combine sugar, corn syrup and 1 cup cream. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Slowly stir in remaining cream. Cook over medium heat until a candy thermometer reads 250° (hard-ball stage), stirring frequently. Remove from the heat; stir in cubed butter and vanilla until well mixed, about 5 minutes. , Pour into prepared pan. Cool. Remove foil from pan; cut candy into 1-in. squares. Wrap individually in waxed paper; twist ends.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 45 calories, Fat 2g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 7mg cholesterol, Sodium 18mg sodium, Carbohydrate 6g carbohydrate (6g sugars, Fiber 0 fiber), Protein 0 protein.
SOFT & CHEWY CARAMELS WITH SEA SALT
I don't know who thought of sprinkling caramels with sea salt, but now I don't want them any other way! Pure genious!! These holiday caramels are sure please; soft, chewy and buttery! Sprinkle on your holiday goodie tray or give (some) away as gifts! Enjoy! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! (photo from bing images)
Provided by Kelly Williams
Categories Candies
Time 35m
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- 1. Line a 13-in. x 9-in. pan with foil; butter the foil. Set aside. In a Dutch oven, combine the sugar, corn syrup and 1 cup cream. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Slowly stir in remaining cream. Cook over medium heat until a candy thermometer reads 250° (hard-ball stage), stirring frequently. Remove from the heat; stir in butter and vanilla until well mixed, about 5 minutes. Pour into prepared pan. Cool. Remove foil from pan; cut candy into 1-in. squares. Sprinkle each with a little coarse sea salt, just a few grains (6-8). Wrap individually in waxed paper; twist ends.
SOFT CHEWY CARAMELS
One of my first experiences with cooking was helping my mother make these caramels. We'd make up to 12 batches each year. Today, I do at least 95 percent of the cooking at home, but my wife does much of the baking. -Robert Sprenkle, Hurst, Texas
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Desserts
Time 25m
Yield about 2-1/2 pounds.
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Line a 15x10x1-in. pan with foil; grease the foil with 1 tablespoon butter. In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt remaining butter. Add the brown sugar, milk and corn syrup. Cook and stir until candy thermometer reads 250° (hard-ball stage). , Pour into prepared pan (do not scrape saucepan). Cool completely before cutting.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 58 calories, Fat 2g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 7mg cholesterol, Sodium 32mg sodium, Carbohydrate 9g carbohydrate (8g sugars, Fiber 0 fiber), Protein 0 protein.
Tips:
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan: This will help to prevent the sugar from burning.
- Cook the caramel mixture to the correct temperature: Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the mixture reaches the right temperature. For soft caramels, cook the mixture to 248°F (120°C). For chewy caramels, cook the mixture to 252°F (122°C).
- Be careful not to overcook the caramel mixture: Overcooked caramel will be hard and brittle.
- Stir the caramel mixture constantly: This will help to prevent the sugar from crystallizing.
- Add the butter and cream slowly: This will help to prevent the caramel from curdling.
- Let the caramel cool completely before cutting it: This will help to prevent the caramels from sticking to the knife.
Conclusion:
Caramels are a delicious and versatile candy that can be enjoyed in many different ways. They can be eaten on their own, used as a topping for desserts, or even used in baking. With a little practice, you can easily make delicious caramels at home. So next time you're looking for a sweet treat, give these soft and chewy caramels a try!
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