Soft Chewy Caramels are the perfect sweet treat for those who love a rich, buttery flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. These homemade caramels have a velvety smooth consistency and a delicate balance of sweetness and creaminess that makes them utterly irresistible. They are ideal for gift-giving, holiday treats, or simply enjoying as an indulgent snack. Making these caramels at home may seem intimidating, but with a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be rewarded with a batch of delicious, soft caramels that are far superior to anything store-bought.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or non-stick spray.
- Melt the Butter: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Ingredients: Once the butter is melted, stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Cook and stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer. This will take about 10-15 minutes. It’s important to stir constantly to prevent the mixture from burning.
- Remove from Heat: Once the caramel reaches the correct temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour and Cool: Carefully pour the hot caramel into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. If desired, sprinkle sea salt on top for a salted caramel version. Let the caramel cool completely at room temperature, which will take about 2 hours.
- Cut and Serve: Once the caramel is set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Use a sharp knife to cut the caramel into small squares or rectangles. Wrap each piece in wax paper to prevent sticking.
Enjoy these decadent Soft Chewy Caramels as a delightful homemade candy treat!
