Homemade Chocolate Caramels Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of a rich, velvety treat that perfectly balances sweet, buttery caramel with smooth milk chocolate, you’re in for a real delight. This Homemade Chocolate Caramels Recipe is a true labor of love, transforming a handful of simple ingredients into chewy, indulgent confections that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re gifting them or savoring them as a personal treat, these caramels bring that perfect combination of gooey texture and chocolatey goodness that just feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its straightforward but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from creating the perfect chewiness to adding creamy sweetness and that irresistible chocolate coating that makes these caramels unforgettable.
- ¼ cup butter: Adds rich creaminess and helps achieve that smooth caramel texture.
- ½ cup sugar: Provides sweetness and structure, essential for the caramel’s chewy base.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Brings a hint of molasses flavor that deepens the caramel’s character.
- ½ cup light corn syrup: Prevents crystallization and keeps the caramel soft and luscious.
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk: Contributes creamy sweetness and helps create the perfect caramel consistency.
- 3 cups milk chocolate chips: For that irresistibly smooth chocolate coating that blankets each caramel piece.
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil: Makes the melted chocolate silky and easy to dip.
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt: A finishing touch that highlights the sweetness and adds a delightful pop of flavor.
How to Make Homemade Chocolate Caramels Recipe
Step 1: Combine the caramel ingredients
In a microwave-safe bowl, blend together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk until everything is smooth and well mixed. This mixture forms the creamy, luscious base of your caramel and is essential for that classic chewy texture.
Step 2: Cook the caramel mixture
Microwave the mixture for a total of 6 minutes, making sure to stir every two minutes. This careful cooking and stirring help the sugars dissolve properly and allow the caramel to develop its rich flavor and perfect consistency—thick but still soft and pliable.
Step 3: Cool and set the caramel
Once cooked, pour your glossy caramel mixture into a 9 x 9 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Allow it to cool completely so it firms up just right and becomes easy to cut into perfect little squares, each holding that wonderful chewy texture we all love.
Step 4: Dip in melted chocolate
Gently melt the milk chocolate chips with vegetable oil until smooth and glossy. Dip each caramel square into the chocolate using a fork or dipping tool, ensuring each piece is beautifully coated. This coating not only adds a decadent chocolate flavor but also provides a lovely snap when you bite in.
Step 5: Add sea salt topping and cool
Lay the chocolate-dipped caramels on wax paper and sprinkle with coarse sea salt before the chocolate sets. The sea salt perfectly balances the sweetness and brings out the caramel’s buttery richness. Let the caramels cool and harden completely at room temperature or in the fridge.
How to Serve Homemade Chocolate Caramels Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing these delectable caramels with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a gourmet touch that elevates each bite. You can also experiment with crushed nuts, like toasted pecans, for a lovely crunchy contrast that pairs beautifully with the silky chocolate.
Side Dishes
While these caramels are delightful on their own, pairing them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a creamy latte brings out their flavors even more. A glass of rich red wine or a smooth port also complements the chocolate and caramel combo wonderfully for a sophisticated treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap your Homemade Chocolate Caramels Recipe squares in colorful parchment paper or foil for thoughtful gifts. Alternatively, arrange them on a pretty plate with edible flowers or nuts for an inviting dessert platter. You could even stack them in a glass jar with ribbons to impress friends and family during special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After making your caramels, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and chewy. Make sure to separate layers with wax paper to prevent sticking. They usually stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks.
Freezing
If you want to keep these treats even longer, freezing is a perfect option. Wrap each caramel individually in wax paper, place them in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying for that fresh-from-the-kitchen taste.
Reheating
Although caramels are best enjoyed as they are, if they become too firm, a few seconds in the microwave on low power will soften them up nicely. Be cautious to heat in short bursts to avoid melting the chocolate completely.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for coating?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate offers a richer, more intense flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweet caramel. Just be sure to use a good quality chocolate for the best results.
Is it possible to make this recipe without a microwave?
Yes, you can cook the caramel on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until it reaches a thick, chewy consistency.
Why do caramels sometimes turn out grainy?
Graininess often happens if the sugar crystals aren’t fully dissolved or if the caramel isn’t stirred properly during cooking. Using corn syrup helps prevent crystallization and keeps your caramels smooth.
Can I substitute the butter with margarine or a dairy-free option?
Butter is preferred for its rich flavor and texture, but you can use vegan butter or margarine if needed. Just keep in mind the flavor and consistency might differ slightly.
What’s the best way to cut the caramels?
Use a sharp knife and cut the caramel once it’s completely cooled and set. Lightly oiling the knife or warming it briefly with hot water can help achieve clean, smooth edges.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Homemade Chocolate Caramels Recipe, it’s hard not to fall in love with the sumptuous blend of buttery caramel and silky chocolate. It’s simply a must-make treat that feels luxurious but is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. So grab your ingredients, have fun with the process, and share these heavenly little delights with those you love. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Homemade Chocolate Caramels Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
These homemade chocolate caramels blend rich caramel with smooth milk chocolate for a decadent treat. Soft, buttery caramel squares are coated in melted milk chocolate and finished with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt, offering a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Ideal for gifting or satisfying your sweet tooth with a homemade confection.
Ingredients
Caramel Base
- ¼ cup butter
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
Chocolate Coating
- 3 cups milk chocolate chips
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
Topping
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare Caramel Base: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine butter, sugar, brown sugar, light corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
- Cook Caramel: Microwave the mixture on high for 6 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent scorching. The caramel should become thick and glossy.
- Set Caramel: Pour the hot caramel into a greased or lined 9 x 9 inch baking pan, spreading it evenly. Let it cool completely at room temperature until firm enough to cut into squares.
- Cut and Dip: Once set, cut the caramel block into 24 equal squares. Melt the milk chocolate chips with vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler until smooth. Dip each caramel square into the melted chocolate to coat thoroughly.
- Add Topping and Cool: Place the dipped caramels on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Sprinkle each piece with coarse sea salt while the chocolate is still wet. Let the caramels cool at room temperature or in the refrigerator until the chocolate hardens.
Notes
- Use good quality milk chocolate chips for a smoother coating.
- Ensure the caramel is fully cooled before cutting for clean edges.
- Adding vegetable oil to the melted chocolate helps achieve a glossy, smooth finish.
- Store caramels in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for longer shelf life.
- Microwave ovens vary; adjust cooking times slightly to avoid burning the caramel.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
