Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels

Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of creamy caramel with a luscious vanilla filling. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or just a sweet indulgence at home. The beauty of these caramels lies not only in their taste but also in the joy of sharing them with loved ones. I remember making these with my kids, watching their faces light up as they took their first bite. It’s a memory I cherish and one I hope you’ll create too.

Why Make This Recipe

These Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels are not just delicious; they’re a wonderful way to bring the family together in the kitchen. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet and creamy textures, making them ideal for any occasion, from birthday parties to cozy movie nights. They’re also a fantastic way to impress guests with your baking skills without spending hours in the kitchen.

"These caramels were a hit at our holiday party! They’re so rich and flavorful, everyone asked for the recipe," says a happy home baker.

Making candy at home ensures that you know what goes into your treats, and there’s something very rewarding about creating these delightful morsels. Plus, the kids love to help out, making it a fun family project that results in something everyone can enjoy.

How to Make Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels

To create these delectable caramels, start by mixing sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, and butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Cook the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. After that, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, cooking until it reaches the perfect caramel consistency. Once removed from heat, add in vanilla extract and sea salt for flavor.

While the caramel cools slightly, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean seeds until you achieve stiff peaks to make the vanilla cream filling. Once the caramel has set a bit, pour half into a lined pan, followed by the vanilla cream layer, and top it off with the remaining caramel. After all layers are assembled, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before slicing into squares.

Ingredients

Gather these items:

200g / 1 cup granulated sugar
120ml / ½ cup heavy cream
60g / ¼ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
60ml / ¼ cup light corn syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp sea salt
120ml / ½ cup heavy cream (for the filling)
50g / ¼ cup powdered sugar
1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 1 tsp vanilla bean paste)

These ingredients are easy to find and can be substituted if necessary. If you don’t have a vanilla bean, vanilla extract can add a simpler yet delicious flavor to your filling.

Directions

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, and butter. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Insert a candy thermometer and cook without stirring until mixture reaches 245°F (118°C). Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and sea salt.

In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean seeds. Beat until stiff peaks form (don’t overbeat). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Pour half of the hot caramel mixture into the pan, spread evenly, and let cool about 15 minutes until slightly firm. Spread vanilla cream filling evenly over the caramel layer. Pour remaining caramel over the cream layer, spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Lift caramels out and cut into squares.

How to Serve Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels

These caramels are delightful on their own, but why not elevate the experience? Serve them on a beautiful platter alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For kids’ parties, consider offering them with a variety of toppings like crushed nuts or sprinkles for a fun, interactive treat.

How to Store

To keep your Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for about two weeks, though I doubt they’ll last that long! If you’d like to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Tips to Make

For perfect caramels, it’s essential to have a reliable candy thermometer to ensure the temperature is exact. Make sure to stir the mixture gently at first; once it starts boiling, avoid stirring to prevent crystallization. If you’re uncertain about whipping the cream, remember to stop as soon as you see stiff peaks. Overbeating can lead to a grainy texture. Always be cautious when working with hot caramel, as it can cause burns.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels. You might try adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the caramel for an adult twist. Or perhaps a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a salted caramel version. You could also play around with different fillings, such as chocolate ganache or even a fruit-flavored cream.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor, but it may alter the texture slightly.

How do I know when the caramel is done?
Using a candy thermometer is the best way. Look for a temperature of 245°F (118°C) for the perfect chewy caramel.

Can I make these caramels vegan?
You can substitute the cream and butter with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream and vegan butter, but results may vary.

What if my caramel hardens too much?
If your caramel hardens, reheat gently with a touch of water or cream until it softens up again.

For More Recipe Inspiration

If you’re enjoying this recipe, you might also love our Mini Bento Cake Recipe for a cute dessert option or check out our Protein Muffins for a healthier snack. Explore more on our site for delicious and quick desserts to make with your family.

We’d love for you to visit us on our social pages for more delicious inspiration:
https://www.pinterest.com/quickcakes/

Emily

Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels

Delightful treats combining creamy caramel with luscious vanilla filling, perfect for special occasions or indulgence at home.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 16 pieces

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Candy

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Caramel

• 200 g 200g granulated sugar Can use brown sugar for deeper flavor.
• 120 ml 120ml heavy cream
• 60 g 60g unsalted butter, cut into pieces Use vegan butter for a vegan version.
• 60 ml 60ml light corn syrup
• 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp ½ tsp sea salt Adjust to taste.

For the Vanilla Cream Filling

• 120 ml 120ml heavy cream
• 50 g 50g powdered sugar
• 1 unit 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 1 tsp vanilla bean paste) Vanilla extract can be used as a substitute.

Method

 

Making the Caramel

1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, and butter. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
2. Insert a candy thermometer and cook without stirring until the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and sea salt.

Making the Vanilla Cream Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean seeds. Beat until stiff peaks form, being careful not to overbeat.

Assembly

1. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Pour half of the hot caramel mixture into the pan and spread evenly. Let it cool for about 15 minutes until slightly firm.
3. Spread the vanilla cream filling evenly over the caramel layer.
4. Pour the remaining caramel over the cream layer and spread evenly.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Lift caramels out and cut into squares.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For long-term storage, freeze separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.