Description
These classic homemade caramels are soft, chewy, and buttery with a rich, smooth flavor — perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet treat during the holidays.
Ingredients
3 cups granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups light corn syrup
1 teaspoon sea salt
24 ounces evaporated milk
Instructions
- Line a 9×13‑inch pan with parchment paper, leaving extra hanging over the edges for easy removal.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Slowly drizzle in evaporated milk while whisking constantly over about 20 minutes to help the sugar dissolve evenly.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and clip a candy thermometer to the pot. Stir continuously until the mixture reaches 238°F (soft-ball stage).
- Remove from heat and carefully pour the caramel into the prepared pan.
- Let cool at room temperature for 4 to 5 hours until fully set.
- Once set, wet a sharp knife with cold water and cut into desired sizes (e.g., 10×8 pieces).
- Wrap each piece in wax paper or pre-cut candy wrappers to store.
Notes
Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before cooling for a salted caramel version.
Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract after cooking for deeper flavor.
Dip in melted dark chocolate once set for a fancier treat.
Stir in chopped nuts before pouring into the pan for added crunch.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for seasonal flair.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg