Vanilla Cream Caramels

These Vanilla Cream Caramels are soft, chewy, and bursting with rich, buttery caramel flavor with a luscious vanilla cream center. Perfect for homemade gifts, holiday treats, or an indulgent candy-making experience, these caramels offer a melt-in-your-mouth texture that candy lovers will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and chewy texture – Perfectly balanced caramel consistency.
• Rich, buttery flavor – Made with real butter, cream, and brown sugar.
• Homemade treat – Great for gifts or special occasions.
• Gluten-free and vegetarian – A perfect candy option for many diets.
• Classic and nostalgic – Reminiscent of old-fashioned candy shop caramels.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Caramel:

• 340g evaporated milk
• 360g corn syrup
• 340g brown sugar
• 113g unsalted butter
• 170g heavy cream
• 4g salt
• 2g vanilla extract

For the Vanilla Cream Filling:

• 475g powdered sugar
• 90g vegetable shortening

Directions

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

1. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray.
2. Set aside a candy thermometer to monitor the caramel temperature.

Step 2: Make the Caramel

3. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, evaporated milk, and salt over medium heat.
4. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
5. Add butter and heavy cream, stirring until fully melted.
6. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 118°C (245°F) on a candy thermometer (firm ball stage).
7. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 3: Make the Vanilla Cream Filling

8. In a separate bowl, mix powdered sugar and vegetable shortening until smooth.
9. Roll the mixture into a thin rope or small rounds, depending on how you want the filling inside the caramel.

Step 4: Assemble the Caramels

10. Pour half of the hot caramel into the prepared baking dish.
11. Quickly place the vanilla cream filling over the caramel layer.
12. Pour the remaining caramel over the top, ensuring it fully covers the filling.

Step 5: Cool and Cut

13. Let the caramel set at room temperature for 2-3 hours until firm.
14. Once set, lift the caramel from the dish and transfer it to a cutting board.
15. Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, cut the caramel into bite-sized squares or rectangles.

Step 6: Wrap and Store

16. Wrap individual pieces in wax paper or cellophane to prevent sticking.
17. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 50 pieces
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1-2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle – Dip or drizzle caramels with melted chocolate for an extra treat.
• Nutty Crunch – Mix in finely chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for texture.
• Salted Caramel – Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before the caramel sets.
• Coconut Twist – Add shredded coconut into the vanilla filling.
• Coffee Infusion – Stir in 1 teaspoon espresso powder to the caramel mixture for a subtle coffee kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Refrigeration: Can last up to 1 month, but allow to soften before eating.
• Freezing: Store wrapped caramels in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this without a candy thermometer?

While possible, a candy thermometer ensures accurate caramel consistency. If you don’t have one, test by dropping a small amount into cold water—if it forms a firm ball, it’s ready.

Why did my caramel turn grainy?

Grainy caramel results from crystallization. Avoid stirring too much once the sugar dissolves and ensure the sides of the pan stay clean.

Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?

No, evaporated milk has less water content and helps achieve the right consistency.

Can I substitute butter with margarine?

For the best flavor and texture, use real butter. Margarine may alter the consistency.

How do I prevent the caramel from sticking to my knife?

Lightly grease the knife with butter or cooking spray before cutting.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and vegan butter as a substitute.

How do I make these firmer or softer?

For firmer caramels, cook to 250°F (hard ball stage). For softer caramels, stop at 235°F (soft ball stage).

Can I use a different filling?

Yes! Try peanut butter, marshmallow cream, or chocolate ganache.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but use a larger baking dish to ensure even setting.

Do these caramels need to be refrigerated?

No, they are best stored at room temperature in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Vanilla Cream Caramels are the perfect homemade treat, blending rich, buttery caramel with a smooth vanilla filling. Whether you make them for gifting, special occasions, or personal indulgence, these soft, chewy caramels are sure to impress. Try different variations to make them your own and enjoy the delightful melt-in-your-mouth goodness!

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