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Foolproof Soft & Chewy Sea Salt Caramels

A stack of soft sea salt caramels sprinkled with coarse sea salt, sitting on a white plate.
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Make melt-in-your-mouth, buttery soft caramels from scratch. This easy recipe delivers classic, old-fashioned flavor perfect for holiday gifts or a sweet snack.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper.
  2. Combine the sugar and corn syrup in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, making sure the tip is submerged but not touching the bottom.
  4. Add the heavy cream and butter to the sugar mixture. Stir constantly until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a boil.
  5. Stop stirring once boiling begins. Allow the mixture to cook undisturbed until the thermometer reaches 245 degrees Fahrenheit (Firm Ball stage). This usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent scorching.
  6. Remove the pan from the heat immediately once 245 degrees is reached. Carefully stir in the vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt.
  7. Pour the hot caramel mixture into the prepared baking pan. Do not scrape the sides of the pan.
  8. Sprinkle the top lightly with extra coarse sea salt, if desired. Let the caramels cool completely and set at room temperature for at least 3 hours, or until firm.
  9. Use the parchment overhang to lift the block of caramel from the pan. Cut into 1-inch squares. Wrap each caramel individually in wax paper or cellophane for storage or gifting.

Notes

  • For the softest texture, do not let the temperature exceed 245 degrees Fahrenheit. If it goes higher, the caramels will become hard.
  • If you want a quicker method, search for a microwave caramel recipe, but this stovetop method provides the best old-fashioned texture.
  • Store wrapped caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://rosatasty.com/soft-sea-salt-caramels-recipe/