Print

Soft Chewy Cream Caramels Recipe

4.9 from 66 reviews

Soft Chewy Cream Caramels are a luscious homemade treat made with butter, sugar, heavy cream, and light corn syrup. These rich, creamy caramels have the perfect balance of sweetness and a satisfyingly chewy texture, enhanced with a touch of vanilla. Ideal for gifting or indulging, this classic candy recipe is straightforward and requires gentle cooking to achieve the perfect consistency.

Ingredients

Scale

Caramel Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup light corn syrup
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with non-stick foil or parchment paper, making sure the foil extends over the edges for easy removal of the caramel later. Set aside.
  2. Melt Butter and Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar, heavy cream, and light corn syrup. Mix gently and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves.
  3. Cook the Caramel: Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture and continue boiling over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Cook until the candy reaches a temperature of 247-248°F (soft ball stage).
  4. Optional Firmer Caramel: For a slightly firmer caramel, let the temperature reach 250°F. This step requires patience as it can take between 45 minutes to an hour.
  5. Finish and Pour: Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to infuse flavor. Immediately pour the hot caramel into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
  6. Cool and Set: Allow the caramel to cool at room temperature completely, which helps it firm up to the perfect chewy texture.
  7. Slice and Wrap: Once cooled, lift the caramel out of the pan using the foil sling. Place on a cutting board and slice into 1-inch squares. Wrap individual pieces in wax paper to keep them fresh.
  8. Storage: These caramels freeze well. Store wrapped caramels in an airtight container in the freezer for longer shelf life.

Notes

  • Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to ensure even heating and prevent burning.
  • A candy thermometer is essential to monitor the precise candy temperature for best results.
  • Stir occasionally but gently; too much stirring can cause crystallization.
  • Wrap caramels individually to prevent sticking and maintain freshness.
  • These caramels can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for about 1-2 weeks or frozen for longer storage.

Keywords: soft caramel recipe, chewy caramels, homemade caramel candy, cream caramels, candy thermometer recipe