Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Create mouthwatering microwave caramels in minutes with our foolproof recipe. Enjoy rich, chewy caramels with a buttery flavor. Perfect for beginners, these caramels are a delightful treat. No candy thermometer is needed!
Table of contents
Try these Quick and Easy Microwave Caramels!
Hey Everyone, it’s time to indulge in the sweet simplicity of homemade caramels with this foolproof microwave recipe. In just a matter of minutes, you can whip up a batch of delectable caramels that boast a rich, buttery flavor and a soft, chewy texture. With no need for candy thermometers or complicated cooking processes, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks looking for a delightful treat. The microwave magic brings out the caramel’s signature golden hue, and a touch of vanilla adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a delightful everyday snack, these microwave caramels are sure to please. Enjoy the sweet satisfaction of homemade candy without the fuss and complexity of traditional caramel recipes.
Foolproof Microwave Caramels Recipe
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1-2 hours
- Servings: 20-24 caramels
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Pan:
- Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two opposite sides. This overhang will make it easier to lift the caramels out later.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt.
- Microwave Initial Mixture:
- Microwave the mixture on high for 4-5 minutes until the butter is melted, stirring every minute to ensure everything is well combined.
- Cook in Microwave:
- Microwave the mixture for an additional 7-10 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes. The mixture should turn a light golden brown color.
- Check for Doneness:
- To test if the caramels are done, drop a small amount of the mixture into a bowl of ice-cold water. It should form a soft, pliable ball. If it’s still too soft, microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in Condensed Milk:
- Once the mixture reaches the desired consistency, carefully stir in the sweetened condensed milk. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up.
- Microwave Again:
- Return the bowl to the microwave and heat for another 2-3 minutes, stirring every 1 minute until the caramel mixture thickens and turns a rich, caramel color.
- Add Vanilla:
- Stir in the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Pour into the Pan:
- Quickly pour the hot caramel into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Cool:
- Allow the caramels to cool at room temperature for about 1-2 hours or until they are completely set.
- Cut into Pieces:
- Once the caramels are firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and use a sharp, greased knife to cut into small squares or rectangles.
- Wrap or Serve:
- You can wrap individual caramels in wax paper or parchment paper, twisting the ends for a nice presentation, or simply serve them on a platter.
Enjoy your homemade microwave caramels! They make a delightful treat or a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
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Recipe Tips for Success
To ensure success when making microwave caramels, consider these recipe tips:
- Use a Microwave-Safe Bowl: Ensure that the bowl you use to make the caramels is microwave-safe to prevent any mishaps.
- Stir Regularly: Stirring is essential to ensure even cooking and prevent hot spots. Use a microwave-safe spatula or a wooden spoon to stir the mixture thoroughly at each interval.
- Watch Carefully: Keep a close eye on the caramel mixture, especially during the last few minutes of cooking, as it can quickly go from a perfect golden color to burnt if overcooked.
- Test for Doneness: The water test is a good way to check for doneness. Drop a small amount of the caramel mixture into a bowl of ice-cold water, and it should form a soft, pliable ball. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Handle with Caution: Be extremely careful when working with hot caramel. It can cause severe burns. Use oven mitts, and avoid touching the mixture directly. Also, take care when stirring in the sweetened condensed milk to prevent splattering.
- Grease the Knife: When cutting the cooled caramels, grease the knife with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Parchment Paper Lining: Lining the pan with parchment paper makes it easier to remove the caramels and prevents them from sticking to the pan. Make sure to leave some overhang for easy lifting.
- Cooling Time: Allow the caramels to cool at room temperature for at least 1-2 hours to set properly. Rushing this step can result in soft, sticky caramels.
- Consistency Matters: Achieving the right caramel consistency is key. You want them to be firm but not overly hard. Adjust the cooking time as needed to get the desired texture.
- Storage: Store the caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for a week or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding a pinch of sea salt, chopped nuts, or flavored extracts like almond or maple for a unique twist on classic caramels.
By following these tips and paying attention to the details, you’ll increase your chances of success when making microwave caramels, and you’ll end up with delicious, homemade treats.
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Microwave Caramels
Yield:
20 caramels
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Additional Time:
1 hour
Total Time:
1 hour 15 minutes
Create mouthwatering microwave caramels in minutes with our foolproof recipe. Enjoy rich, chewy caramels with a buttery flavor. Perfect for beginners, these caramels are a delightful treat. No candy thermometer is needed!
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan: Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two opposite sides. This overhang will make it easier to lift the caramels out later.
- Combine Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt.
- Microwave Initial Mixture: Microwave the mixture on high for 4-5 minutes until the butter is melted, stirring every minute to ensure everything is well combined.
- Cook in Microwave: Microwave the mixture for an additional 7-10 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes. The mixture should turn a light golden brown color.
- Check for Doneness: To test if the caramels are done, drop a small amount of the mixture into a bowl of ice-cold water. It should form a soft, pliable ball. If it’s still too soft, microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in Condensed Milk: Once the mixture reaches the desired consistency, carefully stir in the sweetened condensed milk. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up.
- Microwave Again: Return the bowl to the microwave and heat for another 2-3 minutes, stirring every 1 minute until the caramel mixture thickens and turns a rich, caramel color.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Pour into the Pan: Quickly pour the hot caramel into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Cool: Allow the caramels to cool at room temperature for about 1-2 hours or until they are completely set.
- Cut into Pieces: Once the caramels are firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and use a sharp, greased knife to cut into small squares or rectangles.
- Wrap or Serve: You can wrap individual caramels in wax paper or parchment paper, twisting the ends for a nice presentation, or simply serve them on a platter.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 20 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 212Total Fat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 17mgSodium: 60mgCarbohydrates: 40gFiber: 0gSugar: 40gProtein: 1g
Please note that the Calculated Nutrition is an estimate at best. If you make this recipe and love it, remember to stop back and give it a 5-star rating – it helps others find the recipe!
- First published: 10/5/2023
Owner at Life's Little Sweets
Sara is an architectural designer turned work-at-home Mom. She lives in New Jersey by way of New England and New York, with her husband and 3 kids under 8. She loves design, being creative, and spending time with family and friends. She loves checking out local businesses and eats and being apart of the local farm to table community.
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