Grandmother’s Caramels Recipe
Overview:
Indulge in the nostalgia of homemade treats with these delightful Grandmother’s Caramels. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself, these caramels offer a rich and buttery flavor that melts in your mouth. Crafted with care and tradition, this recipe is a treasure passed down through generations, now brought to you by lovewithrecipes.com.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 36 caramels
- Calories per serving: 130.6 kcal
- Dietary Considerations: Low Protein
Ingredients:
- 3 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 3/4 cup chocolate (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
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Prepare Ingredients:
- Before starting, gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Measure out the brown sugar, butter, milk, chocolate (if using), and vanilla extract.
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Cook the Caramel Mixture:
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In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and milk over medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from burning.
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Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Cook the mixture until it reaches 248°F (120°C), which is the firm ball stage. Alternatively, you can test the consistency by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water. It should form a firm ball.
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Add Vanilla and Optional Chocolate:
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Once the caramel mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully stir in the vanilla extract, infusing the caramel with its warm and aromatic flavor.
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If you desire a chocolatey twist, you can also add the chocolate at this stage. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and incorporated into the caramel mixture, creating a luscious and indulgent treat.
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Pour and Set:
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Quickly pour the hot caramel mixture into a buttered pan or baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Choose a pan size that will allow the caramels to set to your desired thickness.
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Allow the caramels to cool and set at room temperature. This may take a few hours, depending on the ambient temperature and humidity.
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Cut and Serve:
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Once the caramels have cooled and solidified, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles. For a professional touch, you can wrap individual caramels in wax paper or parchment paper.
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Serve these delectable Grandmother’s Caramels as a sweet treat for dessert, afternoon tea, or any special occasion. They also make wonderful gifts for friends and family, capturing the essence of homemade goodness and heartfelt nostalgia.
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Tips:
- Be Patient: Making caramel requires patience and attention to detail. Ensure you cook the mixture to the correct temperature for the perfect texture.
- Butter the Pan: Greasing the pan with butter prevents the caramel from sticking, making it easier to remove and cut into pieces.
- Customize Your Caramels: Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add nuts, sea salt, or different flavors to customize your caramels to your liking.
- Storage: Store the caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a warm climate, you may want to refrigerate them to prevent melting.
Enjoy Your Homemade Delight!
Savor the rich and buttery goodness of these Grandmother’s Caramels, a timeless treat that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and evoke cherished memories of homemade goodness. Share them with loved ones and create new traditions that will be treasured for years to come. 🍬👩🍳✨
