Soft Caramels Recipe

These outrageously delicious soft caramels were our annual Christmas gift for five years running—and we've been begged for them ever since! This treasured recipe, adapted from a vintage cookbook, is now streamlined for foolproof success. Get ready for rich, melt-in-your-mouth perfection that's perfect for gifting or indulging in yourself. These caramels are so easy to make and are the perfect treat to share with friends and family this holiday season.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 180 mins
Calories 5667.7 kcal
Protein 26g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Soft Caramels 68

Recipe Actions

Share this recipe:

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Soft Caramels

Cook Smarter with Sous, Your Kitchen Companion

Missing an ingredient for this Soft Caramels? Need a perfect wine pairing or a healthy side dish idea? Don't guess—ask Sous! Your AI-powered sous-chef is ready to help you swap ingredients, adjust serving sizes, and discover flavor tips in seconds.

How to Make Soft Caramels

  1. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 2 cups granulated sugar, 1 cup light corn syrup, 1/2 cup water, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Continue to cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 239°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer. This will take approximately 30-45 minutes. Be patient and watch carefully.
  3. SLOWLY pour in 1 cup heavy cream while stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula to prevent splattering. The mixture will bubble vigorously.
  4. Continue stirring vigorously, scraping down the sides of the pan to prevent sticking, until the mixture reaches 240-245°F (115-118°C). This typically takes another 10-15 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly (about 5-10 minutes) to prevent sticking. This will also thicken the caramel.
  6. Stir in 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional).
  7. Lightly butter two 9x13 inch baking sheets or line them with parchment paper.
  8. Pour the caramel mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheets.
  9. Allow to cool completely at room temperature (at least 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight).
  10. Once completely cool, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut into bite-sized squares.
  11. For an extra special touch, dip the caramels in melted chocolate or wrap them individually in small squares of wax paper.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

59 g

Sugar

2331g

Fat

730g

Carbs

313g