Description
Deliciously rich and chewy Chocolate Caramels made with a smooth blend of butter, heavy cream, corn syrup, sugar, and unsweetened chocolate. These decadent treats are enhanced with pure vanilla extract and optionally tossed with roasted salted nuts for a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and nutty flavors. Ideal for candy lovers looking for homemade confections with a nostalgic touch.
Ingredients
Caramel Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, plus more for buttering the pan
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1½ cups corn syrup
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate baking bar, roughly chopped
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Optional
- 1½ cups chopped roasted & salted nuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Generously butter a 9″ x 13″ pan to ensure the caramel doesn’t stick and set it aside for later.
- Cook the Caramel: In a heavy-bottomed medium saucepan over medium to medium-high heat, combine the butter, heavy cream, corn syrup, granulated sugar, and chopped unsweetened chocolate. Stir continuously until everything has melted and combined smoothly.
- Monitor Temperature: Attach a candy or kitchen thermometer to the saucepan, stirring gently and continuously until the caramel mixture reaches exactly 240°F (the soft-ball stage).
- Remove from Heat and Add Flavor: Once the temperature is reached, promptly remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the pure vanilla extract to infuse rich flavor.
- Add Nuts (Optional): If using nuts, fold in the chopped roasted and salted nuts thoroughly for an added crunchy texture.
- Pour and Cool: Pour the hot caramel mixture into the prepared buttered pan, distributing evenly. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature until firm enough to cut.
- Cut into Pieces: Using a long, sharp, non-serrated knife, cut the caramel into desired sizes, such as 0.75″ x 1.75″ rectangles or 1″ x 1″ squares. Clean the knife between cuts to maintain clean edges.
Notes
- This recipe originates from Grandma Klein’s recipe box and was originally from her dad’s sister, Victoria Sand, infusing it with a family heritage touch.
- Using a candy or kitchen thermometer is critical to achieving the perfect chewy texture in your caramels.
- Butter the pan generously to prevent sticking and ease removal.
- For variations, try different types of nuts or omit entirely for a nut-free option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
