Name: Soft Chewy Cream Caramels
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter; 2 cups Sugar; 2 cups Heavy Cream; ½ cup Corn Syrup; 2 teaspoons Vanilla

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There’s something truly special about making Soft Chewy Cream Caramels in your own kitchen. I remember the first time I attempted these delightful candies, my kitchen transformed into a warm, sweet haven filled with the rich aroma of melting butter and sugar. It felt like a cozy embrace, especially as I watched the golden mixture bubble and thicken, promising a treat that would melt in your mouth. The joy was not just in the eating, but in the making; stirring, waiting, and finally, slicing into those perfectly square pieces wrapped in wax paper. This experience isn’t just about candy; it’s about creating memories and sharing them with loved ones.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

There’s a unique satisfaction when you create something from scratch, especially if it brings a smile to others. I often find myself reaching for these Soft Chewy Cream Caramels during gatherings or quiet evenings at home, wrapped in nostalgia and sweetness. They remind me of simpler times, and there’s something heartwarming about sharing them with friends or tucking them into lunchboxes. Each bite is a delightful reminder of why I love cooking and creating in my kitchen.

The Best Thing About This Soft Chewy Cream Caramels

1. The Perfect Texture

The beauty of Soft Chewy Cream Caramels lies in their texture. Unlike regular caramels, these are soft and chewy, melting just right in your mouth. The combination of butter and heavy cream creates a smooth consistency that’s a pleasure to enjoy.

2. Rich, Indulgent Flavor

Every piece bursts with rich, buttery flavor, thanks to the high-quality ingredients like sugar and corn syrup. The deep sweetness balanced with a hint of vanilla makes them irresistible.

3. Simple Yet Impressive

Despite their gourmet taste, Soft Chewy Cream Caramels are simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these treats. It’s a great way to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

4. Perfect for Gifting

These caramels make for fantastic gifts. Wrap them in pretty packaging and share them during holidays or special occasions. Who wouldn’t appreciate receiving a box of homemade candy?

5. Versatility

While delicious on their own, Soft Chewy Cream Caramels can also be used in various desserts. Think caramel sauces for ice cream or as a sweet addition to baked goods. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients Overview for Soft Chewy Cream Caramels

The ingredients for Soft Chewy Cream Caramels are simplicity at its finest. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the perfect caramel. The combination of butter and heavy cream ensures that the caramels are rich and creamy, while corn syrup helps to achieve that delightful chewiness. Together, these ingredients come together to create a comforting treat that feels homemade and personal.

1 cup butter (2 sticks): Provides that rich, creamy base that makes the caramels so indulgent.
2 cups sugar: The sweet backbone of the recipe, crucial for that delightful sweetness.
2 cups heavy cream: Adds creaminess and helps in achieving a smooth texture.
½ cup light corn syrup: Helps prevent crystallization, ensuring a chewy consistency.
2 teaspoons vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor, bringing warmth to the caramels.

Preparation Steps for Soft Chewy Cream Caramels

Making Soft Chewy Cream Caramels is a rewarding journey that involves a bit of patience but results in a delicious reward. Let’s dive into the preparation steps!

Start by lining an 8×8 pan with non-stick foil. This will help your caramels come out easily once they’re set, preventing any sticking or tearing. Make sure the foil is cut to size, so it hangs over the edges of the pan slightly.
Melt butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. As the butter begins to melt, it’ll fill your kitchen with a comforting aroma. Stir it regularly to ensure it melts evenly and doesn’t brown.
Add sugar, heavy cream, and light corn syrup to the melted butter. Mix everything together thoroughly until the sugar is completely dissolved. This uniformity is critical for achieving that perfect caramel texture.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally. As it heats, the consistency will start to thicken. Keep an eye on the temperature; this is where the candy thermometer comes in handy!
Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture and continue boiling over medium-low heat. Watch closely as the temperature rises, stirring occasionally to prevent any burning. The goal is to get it to 247-248°F for that soft, chewy texture.
If you prefer a firmer caramel, allow it to cook to 250°F. This process can take quite a while, up to an hour, so don’t rush it. Patience is key!
Once it reaches your desired temperature, remove the saucepan from heat. Add vanilla and stir to combine. The addition of vanilla will enhance the flavor, making your caramels even more delightful.
Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared pan. It will be hot, so be careful! Spread it evenly across the pan with a spatula if needed.
Allow the caramel to cool completely. Once it’s set, use the foil to lift it from the pan and place it on a cutting board.
Slice into 1-inch squares and wrap each piece in wax paper. This not only keeps them fresh but also makes for a lovely presentation.
These caramels freeze well, so feel free to make a batch ahead of time!

Things Worth Knowing

Temperature Monitoring: Using a candy thermometer is essential for achieving the right texture. Too low, and your caramels won’t set; too high, and they’ll become hard.
Stirring: Constant stirring during the melting and boiling phases ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
Cooling Time: Allowing the caramels to cool completely is crucial. Don’t rush this step, as they need to firm up properly.
Wax Paper: Wrapping your caramels in wax paper not only makes them easy to store but also gives them a professional touch.

Customization Ideas

There are so many ways to customize your Soft Chewy Cream Caramels. Here are some tips to get creative!

Storage: Store your homemade caramels in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to two weeks this way.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these caramels! Just ensure they’re wrapped tightly in wax paper and stored in an airtight container.
Variations: Consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before they set for a salted caramel twist.
Flavor Infusions: You can infuse the cream with flavors like coffee or citrus before mixing it into the caramel for an exciting twist!
Mix-Ins: Stir in nuts or chocolate chips after removing from heat for added texture and flavor.

How to Enjoy Soft Chewy Cream Caramels

When it comes to enjoying Soft Chewy Cream Caramels, the options are endless!

Sweet Treats: Serve them as a sweet treat after dinner or as a pick-me-up during the day. They’re perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth!
Gift Giving: These caramels are wonderful homemade gifts. Wrap them beautifully, and they’ll be a hit at any gathering.
Seasonal Treat: Perfect for holidays or special occasions, they bring a touch of homemade charm to any celebration.
Pair with Coffee: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Picnic Snack: Their portability makes them an excellent snack for picnics or road trips. Just pack them in a container!

FAQ

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Soft Chewy Cream Caramels can last for up to two weeks. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them. Just wrap them tightly in wax paper and place them in an airtight container. This method will ensure that they remain fresh and delicious for several months. When you’re ready to eat them, let them sit at room temperature for a bit to soften.

Absolutely! One of the joys of making Soft Chewy Cream Caramels is the ability to customize them to your liking. You can infuse the heavy cream with different flavors such as coffee or citrus before mixing it into the caramel. Additionally, consider adding mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips after removing from heat for added texture and flavor. For a salted caramel variation, simply sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before they set.

The best way to wrap your Soft Chewy Cream Caramels is to use wax paper. Once you’ve cut them into squares, simply place each piece in a small square of wax paper and fold the paper around it. This not only keeps them fresh but also makes for a beautiful presentation. If you’re gifting them, you can also use decorative boxes or jars to enhance their appeal.

Yes, Soft Chewy Cream Caramels can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for special occasions or holiday gifting. You can prepare them a week or two in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you plan to freeze them, remember to wrap them individually in wax paper and place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a while before enjoying.

Conclusion

The rich, buttery goodness of Soft Chewy Cream Caramels makes them a standout treat. Their soft and chewy texture combined with a delightful sweetness truly elevates this homemade candy. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; the process is simple, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re enjoying them yourself or sharing them with loved ones, these caramels are sure to bring joy and satisfaction. Happy cooking!