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Vanilla Cream Caramels

Irresistible Vanilla Cream Caramels: A Sweet Homemade Delight

Indulge in these Vanilla Cream Caramels, featuring a creamy vanilla center enveloped in soft caramel.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 16 pieces
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Homemade
Calories: 90
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Caramel
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Provides richness and flavor; substitute with salted butter, reducing added salt.
  • 2 cups Brown Sugar Adds sweetness and contributes to the caramel's rich color; can use light or dark brown sugar based on preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor; optional if using salted butter.
  • 1 can Evaporated Milk Contributes creaminess to the caramel; substitute with condensed milk for a different texture.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Adds a velvety quality; can replace with more evaporated milk, although the flavor will differ.
  • 1 cup Corn Syrup Prevents crystallization, ensuring a smooth caramel; light or dark corn syrup is suitable.
For the Vanilla Cream
  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar Forms the base of the vanilla cream; no substitutions recommended.
  • 1/2 cup Vegetable Shortening Helps achieve a creamy consistency; replace with unsalted butter for a different flavor profile.
  • 1/4 cup Corn Syrup Maintain to ensure right texture.
  • 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract Infuses flavor; can substitute with almond or hazelnut extract for variation.

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Candy thermometer
  • Mixing Bowl
  • spatula
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Work Surface: Lay out a large piece of parchment paper for creating a 10 x 16 inch rectangle. Ensure it’s smooth for easy lifting of the caramels once set. Gather your equipment.
  2. Make Caramel: Combine unsalted butter, brown sugar, salt, evaporated milk, heavy cream, and corn syrup in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture reaches 241°F. This takes about 10–15 minutes. Once at temperature, pour onto the prepared parchment paper to cool.
  3. Prepare Vanilla Cream: While the caramel cools, mix powdered sugar, vegetable shortening, corn syrup, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Beat until creamy and smooth, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
  4. Assemble Caramels: Once the caramel has cooled and is firm, spread the vanilla cream mixture evenly over the caramel layer. Use a spatula for an even coat, and let it set at room temperature for about 1 hour.
  5. Cut and Wrap Caramels: After the vanilla cream has set, cut the caramel slab into 1 inch squares and wrap each piece in wax paper. Store in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 90kcalCarbohydrates: 15gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 30mgSugar: 14gVitamin A: 100IU

Notes

These caramels are perfect for gifting, maintaining their softness if stored properly in an airtight container.

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