Making homemade soft and chewy caramels is not only a delightful process but also a sweet way to create lasting memories in the kitchen. Whether you whip them up for a family gathering, holiday treats, or just to satisfy a craving, these caramels are the perfect balance of buttery richness and sugary bliss. I remember the first time I made these with my kids; we spent hours laughing and enjoying the warm, sweet aroma that filled our home. The best part? They’re quicker and easier than you might think!
Why Make This Recipe
There are so many reasons to try making these homemade caramels. First, they are a wonderful treat that’s sure to bring smiles to everyone in your family. The ingredients are simple and typically found in most pantries, which makes this an accessible recipe even for novice bakers. Plus, you can customize them by adding flavors or using fun wrappers for parties.
“These caramels remind me of my childhood, easy to make and absolutely delicious!” says a happy home baker.
Whether you need a special gift or a dessert to share, these soft and chewy caramels are versatile and perfect for any occasion.
How to Make Homemade Soft and Chewy Caramels
Creating homemade soft and chewy caramels is a straightforward process that involves melting and mixing your ingredients. You will start by preparing a 9×13 pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, softened unsalted butter, light corn syrup, and sea salt. Bring this mix to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Once boiling, slowly whisk in evaporated milk, letting the mixture cook until it reaches 238°F. After that, pour the caramel into your prepared pan and let it cool for about 4 to 5 hours. Finally, slice into squares and wrap your delicious treats in wax paper or candy wrappers for sharing.
Ingredients
Gather these items to make your homemade soft and chewy caramels:
3 cups granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
2 cups light corn syrup
1 teaspoon sea salt
24 ounces evaporated milk
For a fun twist, consider using flavored extracts or a pinch of cinnamon to customize your caramels.
Directions
Prepare a 9×13 pan with parchment paper. Add sugar, brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt to a heavy-bottomed saucepan, then bring to a boil over medium heat. Slowly whisk in evaporated milk while boiling. Heat mixture to 238°F; pour into prepared pan. Allow to cool for 4-5 hours. Slice caramels and wrap with wax paper or candy wrappers.
How to Serve Homemade Soft and Chewy Caramels
These soft and chewy caramels shine on their own but can also be paired with delightful additions. Consider serving them with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat. They can be used as a topping for ice cream, adding an indulgent twist to dessert. For special occasions, arrange them in a decorative dish and sprinkle with sea salt for an elegant presentation.
How to Store
To keep your homemade soft and chewy caramels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you’d like to preserve them longer, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap each caramel individually to avoid sticking. For best texture, let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Tips to Make
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning, as sugar mixtures can quickly cook unevenly over direct heat.
- Keep a close eye on the temperature; using a candy thermometer can ensure you reach the perfect consistency.
- If you want a richer flavor, try using brown sugar instead of all granulated sugar for a deeper caramel taste.
Variations
Get creative with your caramels by exploring different flavors! Add a splash of vanilla extract for classic sweetness, or try infusing the mix with orange or peppermint extracts for a seasonal spin. You can also incorporate chopped nuts or sea salt flakes for texture and taste variations that elevate your homemade caramels.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can experiment with different sugars, but keep in mind that it might alter the flavor and texture.
2. How do I know when my caramels are done?
The best way to check is with a candy thermometer. The mixture needs to reach 238°F for perfect chewy caramels.
3. Can I make these caramels dairy-free?
You can try substituting the butter with a dairy-free alternative, and use a plant-based milk in place of evaporated milk.
4. What if my caramels turn out too hard?
If they are too hard, they may have cooked too long. You can try reheating them gently and incorporating a bit of cream to soften them.
For More Recipe Inspiration
For more sweet ideas, check out our delicious smash cake recipe or try the flavorful banana cottage cheese pancakes. Both are great additions to your baking repertoire.
Be sure to follow along and explore more of our cozy recipes on our Pinterest page:
Soft and Chewy Caramels
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare a 9x13 pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, softened unsalted butter, light corn syrup, and sea salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Once boiling, slowly whisk in the evaporated milk and allow to cook until it reaches 238°F.
- Pour the caramel into the prepared pan and let it cool for about 4 to 5 hours.
- Slice into squares and wrap in wax paper or candy wrappers for sharing.