Easy Microwave Caramels Recipe
Introduction
These easy microwave caramels are a quick and delicious treat you can make with minimal effort. Rich, buttery, and perfectly chewy, they’re a great homemade candy for any occasion.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup corn syrup (Karo Syrup)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- Salt, for sprinkling (optional)
- Chocolate, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, salt, and sweetened condensed milk. Make sure to use a bowl with plenty of room, as the mixture will bubble up during cooking.
- Step 2: Microwave the mixture on high for 6–7 minutes, stirring every 90 seconds to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn.
- Step 3: Carefully pour the hot caramel into a small buttered dish, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool completely until firm.
- Step 4: Once cooled, cut the caramel into small squares. If you like, drizzle melted chocolate over the pieces and sprinkle with a little sea salt for extra flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use a light corn syrup for a milder flavor or dark corn syrup for a richer taste.
- For firmer caramels, microwave a little longer, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Try adding a splash of vanilla extract before microwaving for added depth.
- If you don’t have a microwave, this recipe can also be made on the stovetop using a heavy saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously.
Storage
Store your caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you added chocolate on top, keep them in a cool place to prevent melting. To soften caramels before serving, leave them at room temperature for a bit or microwave briefly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these caramels without a microwave?
Yes, you can prepare this recipe on the stovetop. Combine the ingredients in a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches the desired caramel consistency.
Why does the caramel bubble up when microwaving?
The bubbling happens because the sugars and liquid heat rapidly, causing steam and air to expand. Using a large bowl gives the mixture room to bubble safely without spilling over.
PrintEasy Microwave Caramels Recipe
These Easy Microwave Caramels are a quick and simple homemade treat that combines rich butter, sugars, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk to create smooth, chewy caramels. Ready in under 10 minutes using a microwave, they make the perfect sweet snack or gift with an optional chocolate drizzle and sea salt topping for added decadence.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: About 24 small caramels 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup corn syrup (Karo Syrup)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
Toppings (Optional)
- Salt (preferably sea salt for sprinkling)
- Chocolate (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, salt, and sweetened condensed milk. Ensure the bowl is large because the mixture will bubble up during cooking.
- Microwave Cooking: Place the bowl in the microwave and cook on high power for 6 to 7 minutes. Stir the mixture every 90 seconds to ensure even cooking and prevent scorching.
- Set the Caramels: After microwaving, carefully pour the hot caramel mixture into a small buttered dish to prevent sticking. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature until firm.
- Cut and Garnish: Once cooled and set, cut the caramel into small squares. Optionally, drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle lightly with sea salt to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use a large microwave-safe bowl to prevent overflow from bubbling.
- Stirring every 90 seconds is crucial to avoid burning and to ensure smooth caramel.
- For best results, cool the caramel completely before cutting to get clean edges.
- Chocolate and sea salt toppings are optional but add a delightful contrast to the sweet caramel.
- Store caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Keywords: microwave caramels, easy caramel recipe, homemade caramel candies, quick candy recipe, chewy caramels
