Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- 8x8 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Line the baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the sugar, heavy cream, and corn syrup to the saucepan and stir until combined.
4. Attach the candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Stir the mixture constantly until it reaches 245°F on the candy thermometer.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
7. Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared baking dish and let it cool for at least 2 hours.
8. Once the caramel has cooled and hardened, remove it from the baking dish and cut it into small squares.
9. Wrap each caramel square in wax paper or parchment paper.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Heat mixture to 245°F
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 50 caramels
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 100 per caramel
- Total Fat: 6g
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but omit the salt in the recipe.
- Light corn syrup can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or sea salt to the top of the caramel squares before they cool.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel mixture for a spiced flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the correct temperature.
- Stir the caramel constantly to prevent burning.
- Let the caramel cool completely before cutting it into squares.
Storage instructions:
- Store the caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- To soften the caramels, microwave them for 5-10 seconds.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the caramels on a decorative plate or in a candy dish.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle sea salt or chopped nuts on top of the caramels.
Pairings:
- Serve the caramels with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
- These caramels make a great dessert on their own.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the caramel mixture is too thin, continue cooking it until it thickens.
- If the caramel mixture is too thick, add a splash of heavy cream and stir until it reaches the desired consistency.
Food safety advice:
- Be careful when working with hot caramel as it can cause burns.
Food history:
- Caramel candy has been around since the 17th century and was originally made with sugar and water.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, buttery, and rich.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the caramels as a sweet treat after dinner or as a gift for friends and family.
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Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Buttery, Caramelized, Rich