Perfect Soft Caramels!
These old-fashioned caramels are rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth soft. ✨ They’re the ultimate holiday treat or giftable sweet — and honestly, nothing beats homemade! 🎁
✅ Ingredients:
* 1 cup (2 sticks) butter
* 4 cups granulated sugar
* 2 cups light corn syrup
* 24 oz evaporated milk (2 cans)
* 1 tsp vanilla extract
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Prep Pan: Line a 9x13” or jelly roll pan with parchment (or butter generously).
2. Melt Base: Heat butter, sugar, and corn syrup in a heavy pot over medium, stirring until it boils (5–10 min).
3. Add Milk Slowly: Pour in evaporated milk very gradually (1 can at a time over 12–15 mins), stirring constantly.
4. Cook to Firm Ball Stage: Stir constantly until it reaches 240–245°F or passes the ice water test (firm but pliable).
5. Finish & Set: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and pour into pan. Chill for several hours or overnight.
6. Cut & Wrap: Once firm, slice into pieces and wrap in wax paper if desired.
🍯 These are dangerously good — soft, chewy, and irresistibly buttery. A family classic!
SAVE this for holiday gifting or year-round sweet cravings! 💛
Find the full recipe at Tastes Better From Scratch (link in bio!)
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Making homemade caramels is truly rewarding and a wonderful way to create personalized treats. One tip I’ve learned is to be patient when adding the evaporated milk slowly over 12 to 15 minutes. This gradual addition prevents the mixture from curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture that’s essential for soft caramel. Also, stirring constantly as the mixture reaches the firm ball stage (240–245°F) helps avoid burning and guarantees the right chewy consistency. To test if your caramel is at the perfect stage, the classic ice water test is a reliable guide. Just drop a little of the caramel into a bowl of cold water; if it forms a firm but pliable ball that you can shape with your fingers, it’s ready. This practical tip is especially helpful if you don’t have a candy thermometer. When it comes to setting the caramel, chilling overnight not only firms it up but also enhances the buttery flavor. Wrapping individual pieces in wax paper keeps them from sticking and makes for perfect gift presentation. The nostalgic flavor of these old-fashioned caramels evokes memories of homemade treats shared with family, making them an unbeatable choice for Valentine's Day, holidays, or any festive occasion. Finally, don’t hesitate to experiment by adding a pinch of sea salt on top or a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist. These subtle changes can elevate the caramel’s flavor profile and delight your friends and family. Homemade caramels like these are definitely a favorite, and once you master this recipe, you’ll find it hard to go back to store-bought candy again!
not easy with a candy thermometer...how to make without one