Easy Microwave Caramels
Craving melt-in-your-mouth caramels without the stovetop fuss? Look no further than this heavenly recipe! Whip up rich, buttery squares of homemade candy in under 10 minutes with the magical help of your microwave.
This recipe is effortless for beginners and offers endless possibilities for customization. Say goodbye to complicated candy-making and hello to a satisfyingly sweet treat enjoyed in no time! Are you ready to indulge?
Some Common Questions I get asked about this recipe:
Q: Can I substitute any ingredients?
A: You can substitute brown sugar with granulated sugar, but the caramel will have a slightly different flavor and color. You can also try using light corn syrup with dark corn syrup, but be aware it will affect the sweetness and color as well. For milk alternatives, try using full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream for a richer flavor.
Q: How can I adjust the texture (chewier/softer)?
A: For chewier caramels, cook them for a shorter time. For softer caramels, cook them for a longer time, but be careful not to burn them. You can also add a teaspoon of honey for a softer texture.
Q: What are some ways to prevent burning?
A: Use low power in your microwave and stir frequently. Stop cooking if the caramel starts to smoke or smell burnt. Don’t overcook it!
Q: How can I tell if the caramel is done?
A: The caramel is done when it reaches a deep amber color and thickens slightly. You can also use a candy thermometer to check the temperature, which should be around 245°F (118°C).
Q: What are some other flavors or toppings I can try?
A: You can add a splash of extract like vanilla, rum, almond, or peppermint for different flavors. Add chopped nuts, sea salt, or a drizzle of chocolate for toppings.
Q: How should I store leftover caramels?
A: Store leftover caramels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
What you need to make these easy microwave caramels:
Ingredients:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cubed
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Flaky sea salt or chopped nuts for topping (optional)
How to make them:
Instructions:
Prepare the pan: Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Melt the butter: In a large, microwave-safe bowl, heat the butter on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until just melted. Stir briefly.
Combine the sugars: Add both brown and granulated sugar to the melted butter and whisk until well combined.
Add the wet ingredients: Pour in the corn syrup and sweetened condensed milk, whisking continuously until everything is incorporated.
Microwave in stages: Microwave on high power for 3 minutes, stopping to stir the mixture halfway through. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring regularly, until the caramel reaches a deep amber color and thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes more. Don’t overcook!
Flavor and set: Remove the bowl from the microwave and carefully stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt, if desired. Pour the hot caramel into the prepared baking dish and let it cool completely at room temperature, about 2 hours.
Cut and enjoy: Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the caramel block out of the pan. Cut into squares and top with flaky sea salt, chopped nuts, or enjoy them plain. Store leftover caramels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Personalize it:
Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different extracts like rum, almond, or peppermint.
Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer, smoother texture.
Infuse the caramel with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm twist.
Dip the caramels in melted chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
Printable Recipe:
Easy Microwave Caramels
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
- Flaky sea salt or chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- Melt the butter: In a large, microwave-safe bowl, heat the butter on high power for 30-45 seconds, or until just melted. Stir briefly.
- Combine the sugars: Add both brown and granulated sugar to the melted butter and whisk until well combined.
- Add the wet ingredients: Pour in the corn syrup and sweetened condensed milk, whisking continuously until everything is incorporated.
- Microwave in stages: Microwave on high power for 3 minutes, stopping to stir the mixture halfway through. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring regularly, until the caramel reaches a deep amber color and thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes more. Don't overcook!
- Flavor and set: Remove the bowl from the microwave and carefully stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt, if desired. Pour the hot caramel into the prepared baking dish and let it cool completely at room temperature, about 2 hours.
- Cut and enjoy: Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the caramel block out of the pan. Cut into squares and top with flaky sea salt, chopped nuts, or enjoy them plain. Store leftover caramels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
Making caramels in the microwave is a great way to get that delicious treat without all the fuss! Here are two highly-rated recipes to consider:
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