Sea Salt Caramels
These gluten-free sea salt caramels are rich, chewy, and perfectly balanced with sweet and salty flavors. Made with simple ingredients, they're surprisingly easy to make at home and are sure to impress!
1 hr
Total Time
24
Servings
medium
Difficulty
15 min
Prep Time
45 min
Cook Time
1 hr
Total Time
Ingredients
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1/2 cup Gluten-Free Corn Syrup
- 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/2 - 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Flaky, for topping)
- 1/4 cup Water
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt (For caramel)
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Packed)
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Optional, for easier cleanup)
- 1 sheet Parchment Paper (For lining pan)
Instructions
- 1
Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- 2
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved.
- 3
Once dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture cook until it turns a deep amber color. Use a candy thermometer and aim for 350°F (177°C).
- 4
Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the butter until melted and smooth. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble vigorously.
- 5
Gradually whisk in the heavy cream. The mixture will bubble again; continue stirring until smooth.
- 6
Return the saucepan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the caramel reaches 245-250°F (118-121°C) on a candy thermometer (firm-ball stage).
- 7
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- 8
Pour the caramel into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle evenly with sea salt. Let cool completely at room temperature, or refrigerate for faster setting.
- 9
Once set, lift the caramel out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and wrap individually in parchment paper.
Tips & Notes
- •Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent the caramel from burning.
- •A candy thermometer is crucial for achieving the correct caramel consistency. Make sure it's accurate!
- •If the caramel seizes (becomes grainy), add a tablespoon of water and continue cooking and stirring until smooth.
Recipe Variations
- →Try adding different herbs for variety.
- →Substitute ingredients based on dietary needs.