Chocolate caramels

Here’s a delicious recipe for homemade chocolate caramels:

Chocolate Caramels Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Caramel:

• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick)
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
• Light Corn Syrup: 1/4 cup
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon

For the Chocolate Coating:

• Dark Chocolate: 200g (chopped or chocolate chips)
• Coconut Oil or Vegetable Oil: 1 tablespoon (optional, for a smoother coating)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pan:

   • Line an 8x8-inch (or similar-sized) baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.

2. Make the Caramel:

   • In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture starts to boil.
   • Stop stirring and let it boil until it reaches a golden amber color, about 10-15 minutes. Use a candy thermometer; you want it to reach 120°C (250°F).

3. Add Cream and Flavorings:

   • Carefully add the heavy cream (it will bubble up). Stir until fully combined and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.

4. Pour into the Pan:

   • Pour the caramel into the prepared baking dish and let it cool completely at room temperature (about 2-3 hours).

5. Cut the Caramels:

   • Once the caramel is set, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut it into small squares or rectangles.

6. Melt the Chocolate:

   • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

7. Coat the Caramels:

   • Dip each caramel in the melted chocolate, using a fork to lift it out and letting excess chocolate drip off. Place the coated caramels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

8. Cool:

   • Let the chocolate set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

9. Store:

   • Once set, store the chocolate caramels in an airtight container at room temperature.

Tips:

• For a salted caramel version, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets.
• You can also add flavors like sea salt, espresso, or nut extracts to the caramel for variety.

Enjoy your homemade chocolate caramels!