These homemade caramel candies are rich, buttery, and perfectly chewy, with a smooth golden finish. Made with simple ingredients, they’re a delicious treat for holidays, gifting, or enjoying with your family.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–35 minutes
Cooling Time: 2 hours
Yield: About 36 caramel squares
Ingredients
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (120 ml) light corn syrup
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (100 g) packed brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, butter, and salt.
Step 3: Cook the Caramel
Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts. Attach a candy thermometer and bring the mixture to a steady boil. Cook, stirring gently to prevent scorching, until it reaches 245°F (118°C) for soft, chewy caramels.
Step 4: Add Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully stir in the vanilla extract. The caramel will be extremely hot.
Step 5: Pour and Cool
Immediately pour the caramel into the prepared pan. Allow it to cool at room temperature for approximately 2 hours, or until completely set.
Step 6: Cut Into Squares
Lift the caramel from the pan using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and slice into small, even squares using a lightly greased sharp knife.
Step 7: Serve
Enjoy the caramels immediately or wrap each square individually in wax paper for storage.
Tips for Perfect Homemade Caramels
- Use a candy thermometer for the best texture.
- Cook to 245°F for soft, chewy candies. Slightly higher temperatures produce firmer caramels.
- Avoid scraping hardened caramel from the sides of the saucepan into the pan.
- Let the caramel cool completely before slicing.
- Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a delicious salted caramel variation.
Storage
Store individually wrapped caramel candies in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
Homemade caramel candy is surprisingly simple to prepare and tastes wonderfully rich and buttery. With its smooth texture and deep caramel flavor, this classic sweet treat is perfect for sharing or gifting.
One bite, and you’ll never want store-bought caramel again!