Satisfy your cravings with a delectable treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and caramel. Our homemade chocolate caramels recipe is a delightful blend of creamy sweetness and indulgent chocolatey goodness. Perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself, these caramels are sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow along as we guide you through the simple steps to create these irresistible delights.
Ingredients:
¼ cup butter
½ cup sugar
½ cup brown sugar
3 cups milk chocolate chips
½ cup light corn syrup
½ cup sweetened condensed milk
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon coarse sea salt (for topping)
Instructions:
Prepare the Caramel Mixture:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, sugars, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
Microwave the mixture for 6 minutes, pausing every two minutes to stir.
Once the caramel is cooked, pour it into a 9 x 9 inch baking pan lined with nonstick cooking spray.
Allow the caramel to cool completely before cutting it into squares.
Coat the Caramels in Chocolate:
Place the caramel squares on a wax-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are fully set.
In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate chips and vegetable oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Dip each caramel square into the melted chocolate, coating it evenly.
Transfer the chocolate-coated caramels back onto the wax paper-lined baking sheet.
Add the Finishing Touch:
Sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt over the chocolate-coated caramels to enhance the flavor.
Allow the caramels to cool until the chocolate has hardened.
Serving Suggestions:
Gifts and Occasions: Present these homemade chocolate caramels in decorative boxes or jars for a thoughtful and indulgent gift. They make perfect treats for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.
Dessert Platter: Arrange the chocolate caramels on a dessert platter alongside other sweets like cookies, brownies, and truffles for a decadent dessert spread at parties or gatherings.
Accompaniments: Serve these caramels with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful pairing. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy caramel is sure to please your taste buds.
Garnishes: Sprinkle additional toppings such as chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or drizzled caramel sauce over the chocolate-coated caramels to add extra texture and flavor.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature: Store the chocolate caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Ensure that the container is tightly sealed to prevent the caramels from drying out or absorbing any odors from the surroundings.
Refrigeration: If you prefer a firmer texture or need to store the caramels for a longer period, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container. They will keep well for up to one month in the refrigerator.
Freezing: For extended storage, you can freeze the chocolate caramels in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Layering: When storing the caramels, place wax paper or parchment paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking together and maintain their shape.
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FAQs:
Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for coating the caramels?
Yes, you can definitely use dark chocolate if you prefer a richer flavor. Dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with the sweet caramel, offering a slightly more intense taste. Simply substitute dark chocolate chips for milk chocolate chips in the recipe, and follow the same melting and dipping process.
How can I prevent the caramel from sticking to the pan when cooling?
To prevent the caramel from sticking to the pan when cooling, make sure to thoroughly grease the baking pan with nonstick cooking spray before pouring in the caramel mixture. Additionally, lining the pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil can also help lift the cooled caramel out of the pan more easily for cutting into squares.
Can I make these chocolate caramels ahead of time for an event?
Yes, you can make these chocolate caramels ahead of time for convenience. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature, in the refrigerator, or even frozen depending on your preference and the length of time before your event. Just ensure they are properly sealed to maintain freshness, and if refrigerated or frozen, allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I customize the toppings on the chocolate-coated caramels?
Absolutely! The sea salt topping adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate, but you can certainly get creative with toppings to suit your taste preferences. Consider sprinkling chopped nuts, crushed candies, or even a drizzle of caramel or melted white chocolate over the chocolate-coated caramels for added flavor and visual appeal. Experiment with different toppings to create your own unique variations of this delicious treat.
Conclusion:
With just a few simple steps, you can create a batch of homemade chocolate caramels that are sure to impress. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing them with loved ones, these indulgent sweets are guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy caramel, smooth chocolate, and a hint of sea salt in every bite. Try out our recipe today and elevate your dessert game to new heights!
📖 Recipe
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Homemade Chocolate Caramels
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including cooling and setting time)
- Yield: Approximately 24 chocolate caramels
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the irresistible blend of creamy caramel and rich chocolate with our Homemade Chocolate Caramels recipe. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth cravings, these decadent treats are simple to make and sure to impress. Follow our easy-to-follow instructions to create a batch of homemade caramels that will delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
¼ cup butter
½ cup sugar
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup light corn syrup
½ cup sweetened condensed milk
3 cups milk chocolate chips
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon coarse sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
- Combine butter, sugars, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth.
- Cook in the microwave for 6 minutes, stirring every two minutes.
- Pour the caramel into a 9 x 9 inch baking pan and let it cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Dip each caramel square in melted chocolate and place on wax paper-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with sea salt and allow to cool until chocolate has hardened.
Notes
Ensure the caramel is fully cooled before cutting and dipping to maintain shape and texture.
Customize toppings with chopped nuts or additional drizzles of chocolate for added flair.
Store in an airtight container for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Microwave, Baking
- Cuisine: American
