Embark on a culinary adventure with this decadent homemade caramel recipe that promises to delight your taste buds. This rich and buttery confection is crafted from simple ingredients, transforming ordinary sugar and butter into a luxurious treat. The smooth texture and deep flavor make it perfect for drizzling over desserts, gifting to friends and family, or savoring piece by piece. With customizable options for different dietary needs, this caramel is a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This homemade caramel stands out for its exceptional taste and texture, far surpassing any store-bought version. The combination of creamy butter and sweet syrup creates a luscious consistency that melts in your mouth. You'll appreciate the ability to tailor the recipe to your preferences, whether you prefer a traditional taste or need a dairy-free alternative. The process of making caramel from scratch is not only rewarding but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma that enhances the entire experience.
Perfect Occasion
This caramel is ideal for any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness. It's perfect for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or as a heartfelt homemade gift. Use it to top ice cream sundaes at summer barbecues, include it in festive dessert platters during the holidays, or enjoy it as a comforting treat on cozy nights in. Its versatility makes it a go-to recipe whenever you want to impress guests or indulge yourself.
Decoration Tips
Elevate your caramel presentation by sprinkling sea salt on top for a delightful contrast of flavors, creating a gourmet salted caramel. For a decorative touch, consider adding a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or white chocolate over the set caramel before cutting it into pieces. You can also roll the caramel squares in finely chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or edible glitter to add texture and visual appeal. If you're gifting the caramel, wrap individual pieces in parchment paper and tie them with decorative ribbons for an elegant touch.
Homemade Caramel Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups of sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups white corn syrup (alternatively, use honey, maple syrup, or golden syrup)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cans (12 oz each) evaporated milk
Substitutes for Evaporated Milk:
- 2 ½ cups half-and-half or heavy cream
- 2 ¼ cups whole milk simmered until reduced to 1 cup
- 2 cans coconut milk (for a dairy-free version)
Optional:
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Make sure the parchment extends over the edges of the pan to create handles, which will help you lift the caramel out after it sets.
- Cook the Sugar Mixture: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the sugar, unsalted butter, white corn syrup (or your chosen substitute), and salt. Place the pot over medium heat. Stir the mixture constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves completely. Continue stirring as the mixture comes to a steady boil.
- Add Milk or Substitute: Gradually pour in the evaporated milk (or your selected substitute), adding it slowly to maintain the boiling mixture without dropping the temperature too quickly. Add a small amount at a time, stirring continuously. This gradual process should take about 10 minutes per can. Ensuring a slow addition prevents the mixture from scorching and promotes a smooth texture.
- Monitor the Temperature: Once all the milk has been incorporated, attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pot, making sure the bulb is immersed in the caramel but not touching the bottom. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Watch the thermometer carefully until the caramel reaches a temperature between 235°F and 238°F, known as the soft-ball stage. This may take some time, so be patient and maintain a consistent heat.Tip: If you don't have a candy thermometer, use the cold water test. Drop a small amount of caramel into a bowl of cold water. If it forms a soft ball that flattens when pressed between your fingers, the caramel is ready.
- Pour the Caramel: As soon as the caramel reaches the desired temperature, promptly remove the pot from the heat. Carefully pour the hot caramel into the prepared 9x13-inch pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, working quickly as the caramel will begin to set.
- Add Finishing Touches: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle sea salt evenly over the top of the warm caramel. This creates a delightful salted caramel that balances sweetness with a hint of savory.
- Cool and Set: Allow the caramel to cool completely at room temperature. This can take several hours, but avoiding refrigeration at this stage ensures the caramel sets properly without becoming too hard. Once it's fully cooled, you can place it in the refrigerator for about 1 hour to make cutting easier.
- Cut and Serve: Using the parchment paper handles, lift the caramel out of the pan and place it on a large cutting board. With a sharp knife, cut the caramel into squares or rectangles of your desired size. If the caramel sticks to the knife, lightly oil the blade or warm it under hot water, drying it thoroughly before cutting.
- Store Appropriately: Place the cut caramel pieces in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Store them at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can refrigerate or freeze the caramel, ensuring it's well-wrapped to maintain freshness.
Enjoy!