Mary’s Old-Fashioned Flour-Thickened Caramels

📜 Collection: JohnBCollection | ✍️ Attribution: Mary | 📂 Category: Desserts A unique vintage caramel recipe featuring a distinct technique where flour is kneaded into butter to create a chewy, rich texture. These old-fashioned confections are finished with a hint of vanilla for a classic flavor profile.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
15 mins30 minsNone1 pan

🔪 Key Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • candy thermometer
  • greased pan

Ingredients

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
2 CupsSugargranulated
1 1/3 CupsCreamdivided
2/3 CupCorn Syrupwhite
1/6 PoundButtersoftened
1 tspVanillaextract
As neededFlourall-purpose, kneaded into butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Thickener

  1. Knead as much Flour into the Butter as it will hold until the mixture forms a ‘wad’ about the size of a small orange.

Step 2: Boil the Syrup

  1. In a large pot, combine 2 cups Sugar, 2/3 cup Corn Syrup, and 2/3 cup Cream (half of the total). Cook for 5 minutes.
  2. Add the remaining 2/3 cup Cream and continue to cook until the mixture reaches the hard-crack stage (it ‘cracks’ when tested in cold water).

Step 3: Finish and Set

  1. Add the Butter and Flour mixture to the pot and stir constantly until the texture is smooth.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp Vanilla.
  3. Pour into a greased pan and allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or wrap individually in wax paper.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card