Microwave Caramels Recipe
Introduction
These microwave caramels offer a quick and simple way to enjoy rich, buttery candy at home without the hassle of a stovetop. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can have delicious homemade caramels ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 2 ½ cups packed brown sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 (14-oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions
- Step 1: Generously butter a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan and set it aside.
- Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of butter on full power.
- Step 3: Once the butter is melted, add 2 ½ cups packed brown sugar, 1 cup light corn syrup, and the can of sweetened condensed milk. Mix well to combine.
- Step 4: Microwave the mixture on full power for 4-5 minutes.
- Step 5: Carefully remove from the microwave and stir the mixture well.
- Step 6: Return to the microwave and cook for another 4-5 minutes, then stir again.
- Step 7: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla.
- Step 8: Pour the caramel mixture into the buttered pan and let it cool completely for 1-2 hours.
- Step 9: Once cooled and set, cut the caramel into pieces and wrap each in wax paper. Store refrigerated.
Tips & Variations
- Use a microwave-safe glass or ceramic bowl to ensure even heating and avoid plastic melting.
- For a salted caramel twist, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on the caramel before it sets.
- If you prefer softer caramels, reduce the second microwave time by 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Wrap caramels individually to prevent sticking and maintain freshness.
Storage
Store the wrapped caramels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To enjoy, bring to room temperature or warm slightly for a soft, chewy texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these caramels without a microwave?
Yes, you can make them on the stovetop by combining the ingredients in a saucepan and cooking over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches the soft-ball stage, then proceed with pouring into the pan to cool.
Why did my caramels turn out grainy?
Graininess can happen if the sugar crystallizes. To prevent this, make sure to stir well and avoid stirring during microwaving. Also, ensure your ingredients are measured accurately and the mixture reaches the correct cooking time.
PrintMicrowave Caramels Recipe
This easy Microwave Caramels recipe delivers rich, buttery, and creamy caramel squares with minimal effort. Using the microwave allows you to make delicious homemade caramels quickly without needing a candy thermometer or stovetop cooking. Perfectly soft, sweet, and chewy, these caramels are ideal for gifting or everyday indulgence.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 36 caramel pieces 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 2 ½ cups packed brown sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 (14-oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep: Generously butter a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan and set it aside to ensure the caramel doesn’t stick after cooking.
- Mix: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of butter. Once fully melted, add 2 ½ cups packed brown sugar, 1 cup light corn syrup, and the 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk. Stir well to combine all ingredients uniformly.
- Heat: Microwave the mixture on full power for 4 to 5 minutes. Remove carefully and stir thoroughly to blend the mixture properly.
- Continue Heating: Return the bowl to the microwave and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes on full power. Remove again and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to infuse flavor evenly.
- Cool: Pour the hot caramel mixture into the buttered pan. Allow it to cool completely for 1 to 2 hours until it firms up enough to cut.
- Serve: Once cooled, cut the caramel into squares with a knife. Wrap each piece individually in wax paper for easy handling and store refrigerated to maintain freshness and texture.
Notes
- Use a microwave-safe bowl large enough to avoid spillover during cooking.
- Be cautious when removing the bowl, as the mixture will be very hot.
- Wrapping caramels individually helps prevent them from sticking together.
- If the caramel is too firm after refrigeration, let it sit at room temperature a few minutes before cutting.
Keywords: microwave caramels, easy caramel recipe, homemade caramel, quick candy, no stovetop caramel
