A classic recipe for rich, chewy, homemade caramels, loaded with chopped nuts. This traditional candy is made by cooking sugar, corn syrup, butter, and cream to the perfect firm-ball stage.

Author

Unknown


Recipe

MeasurementsIngredients
1 CupWhite Sugar
1 CupBrown Sugar
1 CupDark Corn Syrup
½ Cup (1 stick)Butter
2 CupsHeavy Cream, divided
1 TablespoonVanilla Extract
1-2 CupsChopped Nuts (Pecans recommended)

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Butter an 8x8 or 9x9 inch pan.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed, large kettle or saucepan, combine the white sugar, brown sugar, dark corn syrup, butter, and one cup of the heavy cream.
  3. Place over medium heat and bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
  4. Once the mixture is at a rolling boil, very slowly stream in the remaining one cup of cream, ensuring the mixture does not stop boiling.
  5. Continue cooking, stirring frequently to prevent burning, until the mixture reaches the firm-ball stage (245°F - 250°F) on a candy thermometer.
  6. Remove the kettle from the heat. Immediately stir in the vanilla and the chopped nuts.
  7. Pour the hot caramel into the buttered pan.
  8. Let the caramel cool completely at room temperature for several hours until firm.
  9. Once firm, turn the caramel block out onto a cutting board and cut it into squares with a buttered knife. Wrap the individual caramels in wax paper for storage.

Warning

Boiling sugar is extremely hot and can cause severe burns. Use a large pot to prevent boilovers and be very careful when adding the second cup of cream and pouring the final candy.