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The Best Soft & Chewy Sea Salt Homemade Caramels

A pile of soft, square, golden-brown caramels sprinkled generously with flaky sea salt.
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Make soft, buttery, and chewy sea salt caramels from scratch. This recipe yields melt-in-your-mouth candy perfect for holiday gifting or enjoying anytime.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more for topping)

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the paper to overhang on two sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, brown sugar, and butter.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
  4. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, making sure the tip is submerged but not touching the bottom.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Once boiling, stop stirring.
  6. Continue to cook until the mixture reaches 245 degrees Fahrenheit (soft-ball stage). This usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
  7. Remove the pan from the heat. Carefully whisk in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble vigorously.
  8. Return the pan to low heat and stir until smooth. Cook for one more minute, stirring constantly.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in the 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
  10. Pour the hot caramel mixture into the prepared pan. Do not scrape the sides of the pan.
  11. Let the caramel cool completely at room temperature for at least 3 hours, or until firm.
  12. Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the block of caramel out of the pan.
  13. Cut the block into desired squares. Sprinkle the tops of the caramels with flaky sea salt immediately after cutting.
  14. Wrap each caramel individually in wax paper or cellophane for storage or gifting.

Notes

  • For a quick method without a thermometer, cook the sugar, corn syrup, and butter mixture until it reaches a deep amber color, then proceed with adding cream and butter. This method requires careful timing.
  • If you are interested in meal planning for your holiday baking, consider how these treats fit into your overall nutrition goals.
  • These caramels are wonderful when dipped in melted chocolate or used as a topping for ice cream.
  • If you enjoy homemade candy, follow Sophia’s kitchen adventures on Pinterest for more festive candy ideas.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/best-soft-chewy-sea-salt-caramels/