Delicious soft caramel candies in a decorative bowl.

why make this recipe

Making soft caramel candies at home can be a delightful experience. They are sweet, chewy, and bursting with flavor. You can customize them according to your taste, and they make perfect gifts or additions to celebrations. Plus, homemade caramel candies often taste better than store-bought!

how to make Soft Caramel Candies

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter
2 1/4 cups brown sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 tsp fine salt
1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

Line an 8-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly butter it.
In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter together with the brown sugar, light corn syrup, sweetened condensed milk, and salt over medium heat.
Stir constantly while cooking until the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer. This will take a few minutes.
Once it’s at the right temperature, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared pan and let it cool completely at room temperature.
After it cools, cut the caramel into small squares and wrap each piece individually in wax paper or plastic wrap.

how to serve Soft Caramel Candies

Serve these soft caramel candies as a sweet treat at gatherings or as a delightful snack anytime. They can be placed in a decorative bowl or wrapped nicely for gifting.

how to store Soft Caramel Candies

Store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them, but make sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

tips to make Soft Caramel Candies

Use a candy thermometer to ensure accuracy. This is very important for the right texture.
Stir constantly to prevent burning.
If you want a more intense flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top once they cool.

variation

You can add nuts or chocolate chips to the caramel mixture for added flavor and texture. Additionally, experimenting with different flavors of extracts, like hazelnut or almond, can create a unique twist on the classic recipe.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to 1/4 teaspoon to avoid overpowering the flavor.

What should I do if my caramel doesn’t set?
If the caramel is too runny, it may not have reached the correct temperature. You can re-cook it, checking the temperature until it reaches 245°F (118°C).

Can I freeze Soft Caramel Candies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they are wrapped well in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.