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Handmade Caramels Recipes

There's something undeniably special about handmade caramels - a depth of flavor, a richness of texture, and a sense of love and care that goes into crafting each individual piece. Unlike store-bought caramels which can be mass-produced with artificial ingredients, handmade caramels are made from scratch using simple, wholesome ingredients like cream, sugar, butter, and vanilla. This article will guide you through some delicious and easy-to-follow recipes for making your own handmade caramels at home.

Classic Vanilla Bean Caramels

To make these rich and creamy caramels, you'll need:

  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Combine the sugar, cream, and vanilla bean paste in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat to medium-high. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until it reaches a deep amber color.

Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the butter and sea salt until melted and combined. Pour into a lined or greased baking dish and let cool completely before cutting into desired shapes.

Salted Caramel with Fleur de Sel

This version adds a touch of flaky, crystalline sea salt to balance out the sweetness of the caramel.

  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1 tsp fleur de sel (or other flaky sea salt)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Follow the same instructions as above, whisking in the fleur de sel and butter after removing from heat. Pour into a lined or greased baking dish and let cool completely before cutting into desired shapes.

Lemon Caramel with Candied Lemon Zest

This refreshing flavor combination adds a bright, citrusy twist to your caramels.

  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1 tsp grated lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Combine the sugar, cream, and lemon zest in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat to medium-high. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until it reaches a deep amber color.

Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the lemon juice and butter until melted and combined. Pour into a lined or greased baking dish and let cool completely before cutting into desired shapes.

Tips and Variations

  • For a creamier caramel, use more heavy cream and less sugar.
  • Add-ins like chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds work well), shredded coconut, or even chocolate chips can add interesting textures and flavors to your caramels.
  • Experiment with different flavor combinations like cinnamon, nutmeg, or citrus zest for unique twists on the classic recipes.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. With these simple yet versatile recipes, you'll be making delicious handmade caramels in no time!