Description
Homemade caramels infuse classic sweetness with rich buttery notes from traditional French techniques. Silky caramel squares melt seamlessly, offering pure indulgence for dessert enthusiasts who crave simple culinary pleasures.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 1/4 cups dark brown sugar (firmly packed)
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tsps pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare a 9×9 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage and sides are well-lined. Generously butter the parchment surface to facilitate easy caramel removal.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Incorporate dark brown sugar, stirring consistently until fully dissolved and integrated. Add light corn syrup, continuing to heat and mix for approximately three minutes.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk into the saucepan, increasing heat to medium. Continuously stir the mixture to prevent scorching, maintaining constant movement. Monitor temperature carefully using a candy thermometer until it reaches 238-240°F, which typically requires 20-30 minutes of cooking.
- Remove saucepan from heat and immediately introduce pure vanilla extract. Blend thoroughly to ensure even distribution throughout the caramel mixture.
- Transfer the hot caramel mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly across the surface. Allow to cool undisturbed at room temperature for 3-4 hours until completely set and firm.
- Once set, lift the caramel from the pan using parchment paper edges. Using a sharp knife, slice into uniform pieces. Individually wrap each caramel segment in waxed paper for storage and presentation.
Notes
- Choose high-quality unsalted butter with a rich flavor to enhance the caramel’s overall taste and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Use a reliable candy thermometer to accurately monitor the mixture’s temperature, as even a few degrees can significantly impact the caramel’s consistency and final texture.
- Maintain constant, gentle stirring to prevent sugar crystallization and ensure a silky-smooth caramel without burning the mixture.
- Store wrapped caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 36
- Calories: 137
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 21 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 18 mg