Ultimate Creamy Caramel Confections
Indulge in the nostalgic delight of homemade caramels with this beloved recipe passed down from my aunt Cathy. For over 25 years, she has perfected these creamy caramels, celebrated for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, buttery flavor. This versatile recipe allows you to customize your caramels to your desired firmness, whether you prefer them soft and chewy or a bit more set. To ensure the perfect outcome, we use the foolproof drop test method—an easy and reliable technique that guarantees success, no matter your altitude. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll impress your family and friends with these delicious treats that are perfect for snacking or holiday gifting!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
sugar
1 cup (granulated)
corn syrup
3/4 cup (light corn syrup)
butter
1/2 cup (unsalted, cut into pieces)
heavy cream
1 cup (room temperature)
vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon (pure vanilla extract)
Instructions
1
In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, butter, and heavy cream. Place it over medium-high heat.
2
Stir the mixture constantly as it melts and comes together, ensuring that no ingredients stick to the bottom of the pan.
3
Allow the mixture to reach a rolling boil while continuing to stir consistently. Cooking times may vary depending on stove type and elevation.
4
As the caramel thickens, keep in mind that it will firm up significantly after cooling.
5
To determine your desired firmness, perform the drop test: Fill a small bowl with ice water and set it aside.
6
When you think the caramel is ready, take a spoonful and drop it into the ice water. Wait about 30 seconds for it to cool.
7
Remove the caramel from the water and squish it between your fingers. If it’s not as firm as you'd like, return the pan to heat and continue boiling, repeating the drop test until the desired consistency is achieved.
8
Once the caramel reaches your preferred firmness, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly in the pan.
9
Grease your countertop or use parchment paper to pour the caramel onto it, letting it cool completely to room temperature.
10
Using a pizza cutter, slice the caramel into strips and then cut each strip into bite-sized pieces.
11
Wrap each piece in wax or parchment paper. For softer caramels, opt for parchment to prevent sticking. Enjoy your delightful creations!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ultimate Creamy Caramel Confections?
They are homemade caramels known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich buttery flavor, based on a recipe passed down for over 25 years.
Who created this caramel recipe?
This recipe was originally created and perfected by the author's Aunt Cathy.
Can I customize the firmness of these caramels?
Yes, the recipe is versatile and allows you to customize the firmness to be either soft and chewy or more set.
What is the drop test method mentioned in the recipe?
The drop test involves dropping a small amount of hot caramel into ice water to check its consistency once cooled.
Why is the drop test recommended over other methods?
It is a foolproof and reliable technique that guarantees success regardless of your altitude.
What ingredients are needed for these caramels?
You will need sugar, light corn syrup, unsalted butter, room temperature heavy cream, and pure vanilla extract.
What type of sugar should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of granulated sugar.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, cut into pieces.
Does the heavy cream need to be a specific temperature?
Yes, the 1 cup of heavy cream should be at room temperature before starting.
How much vanilla extract is required?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
What type of pan is best for making caramels?
A heavy saucepan is recommended to ensure even heating and to prevent the sugar from burning.
Do I need to stir the caramel while it cooks?
Yes, you must stir the mixture constantly as it melts and while it reaches a rolling boil to prevent sticking.
How do I know when to perform the drop test?
Perform the test when the mixture has thickened and you believe it is nearing your desired consistency.
How long should I leave the caramel in the ice water during the test?
Wait about 30 seconds for the caramel drop to cool completely in the ice water.
What should I look for when squishing the caramel test piece?
Check if it has reached your preferred level of firmness; if it is too soft, continue boiling and test again.
Does altitude affect the cooking time of caramels?
Yes, cooking times may vary depending on your elevation, which is why the drop test is so useful.
Will the caramel get harder after it cools down?
Yes, keep in mind that the caramel will firm up significantly once it has cooled to room temperature.
How should I prepare the surface before pouring the caramel?
You should grease your countertop or use parchment paper to prevent the caramel from sticking.
What is the best way to cut the caramels into pieces?
Using a pizza cutter is an effective way to slice the caramel into strips and then into bite-sized pieces.
What should I wrap the individual caramel pieces in?
Wrap each piece in either wax paper or parchment paper.
Which wrapping is better for softer caramels?
Parchment paper is the better option for softer caramels to prevent them from sticking to the wrapper.
Are these caramels suitable for holiday gifts?
Yes, these delicious treats are perfect for both personal snacking and holiday gifting.
How many ingredients are in this recipe in total?
There are 5 total ingredients: sugar, corn syrup, butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
Can I use light or dark corn syrup?
The recipe specifically recommends using 3/4 cup of light corn syrup.
At what heat should I cook the caramel mixture?
The mixture should be placed over medium-high heat.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to combine the sugar, corn syrup, butter, and heavy cream in a heavy saucepan.
How do I ensure no ingredients stick to the bottom of the pan?
Stir the mixture constantly as it melts and comes together.
Do I remove the caramel from the heat immediately after the test?
Once the caramel reaches your preferred firmness in the drop test, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly in the pan.
How long does it take for the caramel to cool on the counter?
The caramel should be allowed to cool completely to room temperature before slicing.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe with straightforward steps that produce impressive results.