Description
This quick and easy Six Minute Caramels recipe yields deliciously soft and chewy homemade caramels with a rich buttery flavor, perfect for gifting or enjoying as sweet treats.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the caramels once set.
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until fully liquefied, ensuring an even base for the caramel mixture.
- Add and Combine Ingredients: Add the packed brown sugar, heavy cream, and corn syrup into the melted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Cook the Caramel: Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly to prevent burning, then reduce heat slightly to maintain a steady simmer. Continue stirring for 5 to 6 minutes or until the caramel reaches the soft-ball stage (235°F or 113°C) on a candy thermometer for the perfect chewy texture.
- Add Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt thoroughly to enhance flavor and balance sweetness.
- Pour and Cool: Immediately pour the hot caramel mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature until set and firm.
- Cut and Store: Once fully cooled and set, cut the caramel into squares or rectangles. Wrap each piece individually in wax or parchment paper for storage and easy serving.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to accurately reach the soft-ball stage for perfect caramel texture.
- Ensure stirring constantly during boiling to prevent burning and maintain smoothness.
- Wrap caramels individually to keep them fresh longer and prevent sticking.
- Store caramels at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- For a firmer caramel, cook a minute longer but watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
