Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sweetness of caramel is perfectly complemented by the dark chocolate and the subtle saltiness of sea salt.
- Gourmet Quality: These caramels look and taste like they came from a high-end candy shop.
- Great for Gifting: A handmade treat that feels personal and luxurious.
- Easy to Make: Requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible even for beginner candy makers.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Heavy cream
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Light corn syrup
- Water
- Vanilla extract
- Dark chocolate chips
- Sea salt
Directions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture becomes smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved.
- Increase the heat to high and cook without stirring until the mixture turns golden brown (about 8-10 minutes).
- Carefully and slowly add the cream mixture to the caramelized sugar, stirring constantly. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up.
- Continue cooking over medium heat until the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chocolate chips until fully melted and smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Let it cool for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with sea salt.
- Allow the caramels to cool completely at room temperature before cutting them into squares.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 36 pieces
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including cooling time)
- Calories: 90 kcal per piece
Variations
- Milk Chocolate Version: Substitute dark chocolate chips with milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
- Nutty Caramels: Sprinkle chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans along with the sea salt.
- Flavored Caramels: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder or a pinch of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.
- Dipped Caramels: Once cooled and cut, dip the caramels in melted chocolate for a double-chocolate experience.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Freezing: Wrap individual caramels in wax paper, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: If the caramels become too hard, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but reduce the sea salt sprinkling to avoid over-salting the caramels.
2. What’s the best way to cut the caramels?
Use a sharp knife lightly greased with oil or butter for clean cuts.
3. Do I need a candy thermometer?
Yes, it ensures the caramel reaches the correct temperature for the perfect texture.
4. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Heavy cream is recommended for its richness and to prevent the caramel from being too runny.
5. How do I prevent the caramel from crystallizing?
Avoid stirring the sugar mixture once it starts boiling and use a clean, heat-resistant brush to wash down sugar crystals on the sides of the pan.
6. Can I make this recipe without corn syrup?
Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization, but you can substitute it with honey or golden syrup if needed.
7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a larger baking dish and ensure your saucepan is big enough to handle the increased volume.
8. What type of sea salt is best?
Flaky sea salt, like Maldon, adds a beautiful texture and subtle crunch.
9. Can I use white sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Granulated sugar is best for this recipe as it caramelizes evenly.
10. How do I package these for gifting?
Wrap each caramel in wax paper or cellophane, and arrange them in a decorative box or jar for a polished presentation.
Conclusion
Gourmet chocolate sea salt caramels are a luxurious treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With their irresistible combination of sweet, salty, and rich flavors, they’re sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re indulging in them yourself or gifting them to others, these caramels are a delightful way to elevate any occasion.
Gourmet Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including cooling)
- Yield: 36 pieces
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these gourmet chocolate sea salt caramels—a perfect blend of creamy caramel, rich dark chocolate, and a touch of sea salt. Ideal for special occasions or as a luxurious homemade gift, this recipe is easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Heat the heavy cream and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until smooth. Remove from heat.
- In a large saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
- Increase heat to high and cook without stirring until golden brown (8-10 minutes).
- Slowly add the cream mixture, stirring constantly as the mixture bubbles up.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and dark chocolate chips until smooth.
- Pour into the prepared baking dish, spread evenly, and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Cool completely at room temperature, then cut into 36 squares.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure perfect texture.
- Flaky sea salt like Maldon provides the best flavor and texture.
- Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
