Easy Salted Caramels Recipe

If you’re searching for the perfect treat that combines buttery richness and a gentle salty crunch, Easy Salted Caramels are pure magic in candy form. This simple recipe transforms pantry staples into addictively chewy, golden squares swirled with creamy sweetness and kissed with flaky sea salt. Bring these to a holiday party, gift to friends, or stash for your own sweet cravings—trust me, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Easy Salted Caramels rely on straightforward ingredients that you probably already have at home, yet each one plays its part to create that glossy, chewy texture and irresistible flavor. Pay attention to the details—they’re what make homemade caramels unforgettable.

• Unsalted Butter: Rich, creamy butter forms the decadent base and helps give your caramels their smooth, melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• Packed Light Brown Sugar: Adds a mellow molasses sweetness and gives these caramels their deep, amber color.
• Light Corn Syrup: Prevents the sugar from crystallizing and keeps the texture perfectly chewy instead of gritty.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 oz can): Contributes creamy sweetness and helps the candy set to the ideal firmness.
• Salt: Balances out the sweetness in the caramel mixture and lets the flavors really pop.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and complexity right at the finish for that classic homemade aroma.
• Flaky Sea Salt: The crowning touch! This pops on top, adding sparkle and an elegant salty bite.

How to Make Easy Salted Caramels

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess to hang over the sides. This parchment “sling” will make lifting your cooled caramels out for cutting a breeze, so don’t skip it!

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. You want it smooth and just beginning to sizzle, but not browned. This step sets the foundation for the luscious caramel flavor.

Step 3: Combine and Stir

Add the brown sugar, corn syrup, sweetened condensed milk, and salt to your melted butter, mixing everything together with a heatproof spatula or wooden spoon. Stir until it’s homogenous and beginning to warm—you’ll see the colors blend beautifully as the sugar dissolves.

Step 4: Cook the Caramel

Continue stirring the caramel mixture constantly as you bring it to a gentle boil. Attach a candy thermometer and keep a close eye as the temperature climbs—you’re aiming for 245°F for a perfectly chewy bite! (For softer caramels, stop at 240°F; for firmer ones, push to 250°F.) Don’t rush; this will take about 10–15 minutes.

Step 5: Add Vanilla

Once the caramel hits your desired temperature, immediately remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This moment will make your kitchen smell absolutely dreamy!

Step 6: Pour and Set

Very carefully (it’s hot!), pour the caramel into your lined pan and spread evenly. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes—just enough for a light skin to form before moving to the final, show-stopping touch.

Step 7: Sprinkle with Sea Salt

Sprinkle flaky sea salt generously over the warm caramel. This is what sets Easy Salted Caramels apart, delivering that crave-worthy burst of salty crunch to every bite.

Step 8: Cool Completely and Cut

Leave the pan at room temperature and let your caramels cool for 2–3 hours (the hardest part: waiting!). Once fully set, use the parchment sling to lift the caramel block out. Slice into bite-sized squares with a sharp knife, and if you’d like, wrap each in wax paper for a classic finish.

How to Serve Easy Salted Caramels

Garnishes

A little extra flaky sea salt on top will make each piece sparkle, but you can also drizzle melted chocolate over your Easy Salted Caramels for an elegant touch. Crushed nuts or a tiny sprinkle of espresso powder can also give your caramels a fun twist.

Side Dishes

Caramels go beautifully with a cup of robust coffee or strong black tea, balancing the sweetness with a hint of bitterness. Platter them alongside sliced apples, pears, or even an assortment of cheeses for a delightful after-dinner board.

Creative Ways to Present

For gifting, wrap your Easy Salted Caramels in colored wax paper and arrange in pretty tins or mini mason jars. For parties, pile them high on a cake stand, tuck them into goodie bags, or use as edible place cards tied with a festive ribbon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Easy Salted Caramels wrapped in wax paper or parchment and placed in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep fresh and chewy for up to two weeks—if they last that long!

Freezing

You can easily freeze your caramels for longer storage. Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe zip bag or container, separating layers with parchment. They’ll stay delicious for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before diving in!

Reheating

If your caramels become a little too firm (especially after refrigeration or freezing), simply let them sit out at room temperature for a while. Microwaving is not recommended, as they can melt unevenly or turn runny.

FAQs

Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?

Absolutely! Dark brown sugar will deepen the molasses notes and give your Easy Salted Caramels a slightly richer color and flavor. It’s a delicious variation if you love a bolder caramel taste.

What can I use if I don’t have a candy thermometer?

If you’re without a thermometer, you can test for the “firm ball” stage by dropping a spoonful of the hot caramel into a glass of very cold water. It should form a firm, yet pliable ball that holds its shape but can still be pressed with your fingers.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the Easy Salted Caramels ingredients and pour the mixture into a 9×13 baking pan instead of 8×8. Just ensure your saucepan is large enough, and watch the cooking time closely, as it may increase slightly.

How do I prevent my caramels from sticking when cutting?

Lightly oil your knife, or use a sharp, nonstick knife to slice the cooled caramel block. Keeping the blade clean between cuts will help you get perfect, tidy squares every time!

Is it possible to make these caramels vegan?

You can experiment with vegan butter, coconut condensed milk, and swap the dairy for plant-based versions. The flavor will change slightly, but you’ll still be able to enjoy a wonderfully chewy caramel treat.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wanted to master homemade caramel, Easy Salted Caramels are your golden ticket. They’re fun to make, beautifully giftable, and always impress, even if it’s just you sneaking a sweet treat after dinner. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a batch—you’ll be surprised how easy and delightful this little kitchen project can be!

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