Description
Date Caramels are a rich, homemade candy featuring buttery caramel infused with vanilla and a hint of salt, optionally enhanced with crunchy pecans or walnuts. This recipe guides you through creating smooth, creamy caramel squares perfect for enjoying as a sweet treat or dessert topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel Base
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Additions
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- Sea salt flakes for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overhangs the sides to make removal of the caramel easier later.
- Combine Initial Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan large enough to prevent boil-overs, combine butter, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water.
- Melt Butter and Dissolve Sugar: Over medium heat, stir constantly until the butter is fully melted and the sugar has dissolved completely. Be patient, as rushing can cause crystallization.
- Cook Caramel Mixture: Once sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and allow the mixture to cook, swirling the pan occasionally. Continue cooking until it reaches a deep amber color resembling dark honey, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Monitor carefully to avoid burning.
- Add Heavy Cream Carefully: Remove the pan from heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so maintain a safe distance and pour slowly to avoid splashing.
- Stir Until Smooth: Stir vigorously to combine the cream fully, resulting in a smooth and creamy caramel sauce.
- Incorporate Flavorings and Nuts: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and chopped nuts if using.
- Pour and Spread Caramel: Immediately pour the hot caramel onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to about ½ inch thickness.
- Cool the Caramel: Allow the caramel to cool completely at room temperature for at least 2-3 hours or longer. Avoid refrigerating while still hot.
- Cut into Pieces: Once set and firm, use a sharp knife to cut the caramel into squares or desired shapes.
- Optional Salt Sprinkle: Lightly sprinkle sea salt flakes over the cut caramel pieces for added flavor if desired.
- Store Properly: Store caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Long-Term Storage: For longer storage, refrigerate the caramels. Note that refrigeration may soften them slightly; bring them back to room temperature before serving.
- Enjoy: Serve as a delicious treat on their own or use as a decadent topping for desserts.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning and ensure even heat distribution.
- Stirring should be constant at first to dissolve sugar, then stopped to prevent crystallization during caramelization.
- Be cautious when adding cream as the mixture bubbles intensely and can splatter.
- Do not refrigerate hot caramel; it needs to set completely at room temperature for proper texture.
- Chopped nuts add texture and flavor but are optional.
- Sea salt flakes enhance the caramel’s sweetness through contrast but can be omitted.
- Store caramels in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Date Caramels, Homemade Candy, Caramel Recipe, Sweet Treat, Dessert Topping
