Delicious homemade Vanilla Cream Caramels that capture the essence of family traditions and shared experiences.

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There’s something magical about the aroma that fills the kitchen when making Vanilla Cream Caramels. The buttery sweetness mingles with the rich scent of brown sugar, transforming the air into a comforting embrace that whispers of family traditions and shared moments. I remember watching my grandmother, a gentle soul with warm hands, stirring that thick, bubbling concoction on chilly Sunday afternoons.

It was her way of welcoming us into the warmth of her home, much like setting out a pan of salted caramel apple pie cheesecake for everyone to share. As the caramels set, they became more than just a treat; they were a promise of laughter, love, and memories to cherish.

Why Vanilla Cream Caramels Belongs in Your Kitchen Story

Vanilla Cream Caramels are not just candies; they are a bridge between generations. Making these caramels at home is a time-honored tradition that can connect you with your past while creating new memories for the future. This recipe is filled with nostalgia, carrying the warmth of family gatherings and the joy of sharing something special with loved ones.

In our family, making Vanilla Cream Caramels is a ritual. It is a sweet reminder of simpler times, where everyone gathered around the kitchen, waiting eagerly for the caramels to cool. The laughter, the stories shared over the bubbling pot, and the magical moment when we would finally taste the fruits of our labor are all part of the experience. Often there would be tins of easy Christmas sugar cookie fudge on the counter too, turning the whole kitchen into a holiday candy shop. It’s a way to bring everyone closer, to slow down, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

When you make these caramels, you are inviting a piece of tradition into your own home. Each bite takes you back to those cherished moments. The creamy, velvety texture melts in your mouth, while the deep flavor of vanilla dances on your palate. As you make them, you’re not just cooking; you’re weaving a tapestry of memories and imparting values to the younger generations.

Preparing Vanilla Cream Caramels

“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”

Making Vanilla Cream Caramels is a straightforward process, but it requires patience. As the mixture simmers and thickens, the colors deepen, turning from light golden to a rich amber hue. You can almost taste the sweetness in the air, hinting at the delightful treat that awaits.

Here is a quick overview of the ingredients you’ll need to embark on this delicious journey:

Gathering the Ingredients

To make these delightful Vanilla Cream Caramels, you will need the following ingredients:

• 113 grams unsalted butter
• 340 grams brown sugar
• 4 grams salt
• 340 grams evaporated milk (1 can)
• 170 grams heavy cream
• 285 grams corn syrup
• 475 grams powdered sugar
• 90 grams vegetable shortening
• 75 grams corn syrup
• 2 grams vanilla

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the smooth texture and rich flavor of the caramels. For instance, using good quality vanilla enhances the overall taste and aroma. Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results. Similarly, remember to use unsalted butter, as it allows you to control the saltiness of your caramels.

Step-by-Step Directions

Making Vanilla Cream Caramels is a delightful process, and I’m here to guide you through it. Follow these steps closely, and soon you will have a batch of caramels to share or savor all on your own.

1. Make the Caramel

Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. As the butter melts, add the brown sugar and salt, stirring well. Cook this mix, allowing it to bubble and thicken. Keep stirring for about 5 to 7 minutes until it reaches a soft ball stage.

Tip: Stir constantly to prevent burning. The mixture should become glossy as it thickens.

2. Add Cream and Corn Syrup

Once the mixture reaches the soft ball stage, carefully add the evaporated milk and heavy cream. The mixture may splatter a bit, so keep a safe distance. Continue to cook and stir until it reaches a consistent boil. Add in the corn syrup and continue stirring.

Watch for golden edges as the mixture bubbles away, signaling that it’s almost ready.

3. Cook to the Desired Temperature

Continue cooking the mixture, stirring frequently until it reaches a temperature of 120 degrees Celsius or 250 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer. Remove the pan from heat once it has reached the proper temperature.

4. Mix in the Powdered Sugar

Now it’s time to add the powdered sugar. Gradually incorporate it into the caramel mixture using a spatula. Stir in vegetable shortening and mix until fully combined. The texture should become smooth and thick.

5. Blend in Vanilla

Finally, add the vanilla extract. This is where the magic truly happens; the sweet, warm scent will envelop your kitchen, adding character to the caramels. Mix until well incorporated.

6. Pour and Set

Pour the mixture into a greased pan, spreading it evenly. Allow the caramels to cool completely at room temperature. This will take a couple of hours, so be patient.

Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles, and wrap in wax paper for easy serving.

Serving Vanilla Cream Caramels With Family Warmth

When the time comes to serve your Vanilla Cream Caramels, it’s all about the experience. Picture your dining table adorned with these heavenly treats, inviting family and friends to share in the joy. Simple yet elegant, these caramels have an irresistible charm, especially when they’re part of a dessert spread alongside a slice of festive Christmas dessert lasagna or other holiday favorites.

As everyone gathers around, the conversation flows as smoothly as the warm caramel sauce once did. The laughter, the smiles, and the satisfied nods all serve as a testament to the love and care poured into preparing this delightful treat. They can be enjoyed on their own or served alongside a cup of coffee or tea try pairing them with a mug dressed up with homemade butterscotch coffee creamer to echo that buttery caramel flavor and further enhance the richness of the experience.

Families often have their own little rituals surrounding food. Perhaps your family gathers around a board game or shares stories while enjoying caramels. These moments create bonds, fostering connections that last a lifetime.

How to Keep This Dish Restorative Tomorrow

After the joy of making and sharing Vanilla Cream Caramels, you may wonder how to preserve this delicious treat for tomorrow. Storing them properly is key to maintaining their freshness and flavor.

Place the cut caramels in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. Rinse the container with warm water and ensure it is completely dry before storing your caramels. They can be kept at room temperature for about one to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy them over several days or tuck a few into Christmas gift jars as sweet homemade presents.

If you’d like to extend their life, consider placing them in the refrigerator. They won’t be as soft as when they are fresh, but the flavor will still be delightful.

As the flavors develop over time, the caramels may evoke those endearing memories even more with each passing day.

Quiet Tips & Tricks

As with any beloved recipe, you might find small modifications that make it yours. Here are a few tips I’ve learned over the years that can help perfect your Vanilla Cream Caramels:

• Consider using light and dark brown sugar combined for a deeper flavor complexity that echoes the rich caramel notes in our caramel apple pie bombs.
• If the mixture is too thick while cooking, add a few tablespoons of water to help achieve the right consistency.
• To cut clean pieces, lightly grease your knife before slicing the cooled caramels.
• You can add a sprinkling of sea salt on top of the caramels right before they cool to create a delightful contrast to the sweetness.

Heritage Variations

In every family, there are small nuances that make a recipe unique. In my family, we often add a touch of crushed nuts or a sprinkle of shredded coconut to our Vanilla Cream Caramels, providing a delightful texture that enhances the overall experience. Around the holidays, we’ll even box them up with other handmade treats like our Christmas gift jars, turning a simple candy into a thoughtful, story-filled gift.

Sometimes, during holidays, we infuse them with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra warmth that ties perfectly with the festive season. These variations bring our unique heritage into every bite, allowing us to reminisce about those delightful family gatherings.

Vanilla Cream Caramels

Delicious homemade Vanilla Cream Caramels that capture the essence of family traditions and shared experiences.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 20 pieces

Course: Candy, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Main Ingredients

• 113 grams unsalted butter Use unsalted butter for better salt control.
• 340 grams brown sugar Light and dark brown sugar can be combined for flavor.
• 4 grams salt Enhances the overall flavor.
• 340 grams evaporated milk 1 can.
• 170 grams heavy cream Adds creaminess to the caramels.
• 285 grams corn syrup Helps retain moisture.
• 475 grams powdered sugar Incorporate gradually into the mixture.
• 90 grams vegetable shortening Makes the mixture smooth.
• 75 grams corn syrup Used again in the recipe.
• 2 grams vanilla Use pure vanilla extract for best results.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Melt the unsalted butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the brown sugar and salt into the butter, stirring well.
3. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring constantly, until it reaches a soft ball stage.

Combining Ingredients

1. Carefully add the evaporated milk and heavy cream to the mixture. It may splatter, so keep a safe distance.
2. Continue cooking and stir until a consistent boil is reached.
3. Add the corn syrup and keep stirring.

Cooking to Temperature

1. Continue cooking until the mixture reaches 120 degrees Celsius or 250 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer.
2. Remove from heat once the proper temperature is reached.

Finishing Touches

1. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar into the caramel mixture using a spatula.
2. Stir in vegetable shortening until the mixture is smooth and thick.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.

Setting

1. Pour the mixture into a greased pan and spread evenly.
2. Allow caramels to cool completely at room temperature for a couple of hours.
3. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles, and wrap in wax paper.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 50mgSugar: 12g

Notes

To preserve freshness, cut caramels should be stored in an airtight container. They can last for about one to two weeks at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator.

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FAQs About Vanilla Cream Caramels

A Final Thought

As you gather with loved ones and share the memory of making Vanilla Cream Caramels, remember that these moments are what life is all about. Each batch carries the warmth of tradition and the excitement of new beginnings. Reconnect with your roots and let the simple yet profound act of sharing food build bridges to cherished memories.

Let the comfort of these caramels serve as a reminder that in a world that often feels rushed, the most meaningful moments are rooted in the warmth of home, the laughter of family, and the love shared over sweet treats.