Microwave Caramel Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Directions
- 1
Prep. Line an 8×8″ pan with parchment paper. Run a stick of butter over the top to prevent the caramels from sticking. Set aside.
- 2
Microwave. Melt 1/4 cup butter in a large 8-cup microwave-safe bowl. Add 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup corn syrup and 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk and stir until smooth. Place in the microwave and cook for six minutes, stirring halfway in between.
- 3
Test. To test if the caramel is ready, place a spoon into the caramel and then dip into a cup of cold ice water. If it resembles a soft ball (the texture you’d want your caramels to be), then it’s ready. If it’s still too soft, cook for an additional 30 seconds at a time. It should be about 240°F.
- 4
Add vanilla, pour in pan. Remove bowl from microwave and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla and a pinch of sea salt. Add pecans if desired. Pour caramel into prepared pan and allow to set. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired. You may place in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to cool them quicker.
- 5
Cut into pieces. Cut with a plastic knife and then wrap in wax paper to prevent the caramels from sticking. Enjoy! :)
Microwave Caramel Recipe
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About this Recipe
Craving that rich, chewy, buttery homemade caramel experience but intimidated by candy making? This incredibly easy microwave caramel recipe delivers a perfect batch in just minutes, no special equipment required.
What sets this recipe apart is its ingenious simplicity: everything comes together in one bowl in the microwave, eliminating the need for constant stirring over a hot stove or the worry of a candy thermometer. It's a quick, foolproof way to achieve that classic soft, buttery caramel texture that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Prepare for delightful, old-fashioned caramels that are wonderfully soft and chewy, with a rich, deep butterscotch flavor brightened by a hint of vanilla and a delicate pinch of sea salt. Each piece offers that satisfying resistance and slow melt, providing a luxurious experience that feels far more effort-intensive than it actually is. This recipe makes crafting homemade candies accessible to everyone, ensuring a delicious result without the usual fuss.
While perfect as is, you can easily personalize these caramels. Enhance the flavor by experimenting with different types of salt—a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before they set can add a delightful textural contrast and an extra pop of savory goodness. You could also explore a touch of almond or coffee extract alongside the vanilla for a different flavor profile once you're comfortable with the basic technique.
These homemade caramels are a beloved holiday favorite, perfect for gifting, filling a candy dish, or simply enjoying as a sweet treat. They bring a touch of nostalgic charm to any occasion.