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Simple Homemade Soft and Chewy Caramel Candy

Close-up of several chewy cubes of homemade caramel sprinkled with salt on a white plate.
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Make rich, buttery, soft caramel candy from scratch. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients and gives you chewy perfection ideal for gifting or enjoying immediately.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Set aside.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and corn syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Stop stirring once the sugar dissolves. Continue to cook the mixture until it reaches 245 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer. This is the soft-ball stage.
  4. Carefully pour the heavy cream into the sugar mixture. Stir gently until combined. The mixture will bubble up significantly.
  5. Return the pan to medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 240 degrees Fahrenheit.
  6. Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the butter, salt, and vanilla extract until the butter is completely melted and incorporated.
  7. Pour the hot caramel mixture into the prepared baking pan. Do not scrape the sides of the pan.
  8. Let the caramel cool completely at room temperature for at least 3 hours, or until firm. Do not refrigerate.
  9. Once firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the caramel block from the pan. Peel off the paper.
  10. Lightly grease a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Cut the block into 1-inch squares.
  11. Wrap each piece individually in wax paper or cellophane for storage. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Use a candy thermometer for accuracy; this is key for achieving the correct chewy texture.
  • If you want salted caramels, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top immediately after pouring the mixture into the pan.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute brown sugar for the granulated sugar, but monitor the temperature closely as it can burn faster.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenican.com/homemade-caramel-recipe-soft-chewy-candy/