Description
These Easy Salted Caramels are a delightful homemade treat combining rich, buttery caramel with a touch of flaky sea salt. Perfectly chewy with a balance of sweet and salty flavors, this recipe is straightforward and ideal for gifting or indulging.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the caramel once set.
- Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, unsalted butter, and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir continuously until the butter melts completely and the sugar dissolves fully.
- Cook the Caramel: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the temperature reaches 245°F (corresponding to the firm ball stage), which ensures the perfect chewy texture.
- Add Flavoring: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse the caramel with aroma and flavor.
- Set the Caramel: Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth the surface evenly. Allow it to cool at room temperature without disturbance for about 2 hours to set properly.
- Finish and Cut: Once set, sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt for the signature salted caramel taste. Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the caramel out of the pan and cut into squares or rectangles. Wrap each piece individually in parchment or wax paper to store or gift.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.
- A candy thermometer is essential to reach the precise temperature for the caramel’s perfect texture.
- Do not skip the parchment paper lining to easily release the caramel from the pan.
- Store caramels at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- For a variation, try using fleur de sel instead of regular flaky sea salt.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Confectionery
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
