Salted Caramel Candies Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love the perfect balance between rich sweetness and a little savory touch, these Salted Caramel Candies are about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine soft, buttery caramel that melts right in your mouth, with just the right hint of sea salt to elevate every bite. Making these from scratch might sound intimidating, but I promise you, the process is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Plus, once you taste these homemade Salted Caramel Candies, store-bought versions will never quite measure up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of making Salted Caramel Candies lies in how simple yet essential the ingredients are. Each one plays a starring role in delivering authentic flavor, smooth texture, and that perfect golden hue that just beckons you to unwrap a piece.

• 1 cup sugar: The foundation of the caramel, melting down into a rich amber color that signals deliciousness.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds the creamy, luscious mouthfeel that makes these candies irresistible.
• 4 tbsp butter: Provides buttery richness and helps create a tender, chewy texture.
• 1 tsp sea salt: The secret ingredient that brightens the flavor and perfectly balances the sweetness.

How to Make Salted Caramel Candies

Step 1: Melt the Sugar

This is where the magic begins. Pour the sugar into a heavy-bottomed pan and gently heat it over medium heat. As it warms, watch closely as the sugar melts and slowly transforms from crystals to a lovely amber liquid. This stage requires patience—stirring too much can cause it to crystallize, so keep a steady eye and swirl the pan gently if needed.

Step 2: Add Cream and Butter

Once your sugar has reached a deep amber color, carefully add the heavy cream and butter. Be prepared—the mixture will bubble vigorously. Stir continuously until everything melds into a smooth, velvety caramel sauce. This part gives the candies their signature creamy texture and rich flavor.

Step 3: Pour Into Pan and Sprinkle Salt

Pour the hot caramel mixture evenly into a lined or greased pan. Immediately sprinkle the sea salt over the top. The salt granules will start to dissolve slightly, infusing each candy with that impressive salty kick that contrasts beautifully against the sweetness.

Step 4: Chill and Cut

Allow the caramel to chill for about two hours so it firms up to the perfect chewy consistency. Once set, lift it out of the pan and cut into bite-sized squares. If you find the caramel sticks too much, a quick dusting of powdered sugar or cornstarch on your knife helps create clean cuts.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Candies

Garnishes

While these candies shine on their own, a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt before serving adds a beautiful shimmer and enhances the flavor. For an elegant touch, you can wrap each piece in wax paper tied with twine for a charming gift or party favor.

Side Dishes

Salted Caramel Candies pair wonderfully with a cozy cup of black coffee or a robust cup of hot chocolate. The warm bitterness of these drinks complements the buttery sweetness and the salty edge of the candies, making each bite feel like pure comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these candies in a charming glass jar labeled with hand-written tags for a thoughtful homemade gift. Alternatively, scatter a few pieces over a simple dessert platter with nuts and dried fruit for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Salted Caramel Candies keep well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Keeping them away from heat and humidity will preserve their chewy texture and prevent them from becoming sticky.

Freezing

If you want to save them for longer, these candies freeze beautifully. Just wrap each one individually in wax or parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When thawed, they maintain their delicious flavor and texture.

Reheating

Unlike other sweets, you usually don’t need to reheat Salted Caramel Candies—they’re perfect straight from the container. But if you prefer them a little softer, you can briefly warm them in your hands or microwave a piece for just a few seconds.

FAQs

Can I use regular table salt instead of sea salt for Salted Caramel Candies?

While table salt can work, sea salt is preferred because it provides a subtle crunch and a cleaner flavor that enhances the caramel. If you use table salt, be cautious with the quantity since it can be more intense.

How do I know when the sugar has reached the right amber color?

Watch for the sugar to melt into a clear liquid first, then gradually darken to a warm amber shade. Avoid letting it get too dark or it will taste bitter. If you’re unsure, a candy thermometer set to around 320°F (160°C) can help.

What should I do if my caramel crystallizes while melting?

Crystallization can happen if sugar is disturbed too much during melting. To fix this, add a little bit of water at the start to help the sugar dissolve evenly or try stirring gently until the crystals dissolve again.

Can I substitute butter with margarine or oil?

Butter is best because it adds flavor and the right texture. Margarine or oil might work but can change the texture and taste, making the candies less rich and buttery.

How do I prevent my Salted Caramel Candies from sticking together?

Make sure to store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. If needed, placing wax paper strips between layers of candies prevents them from sticking to each other.

Final Thoughts

Making Salted Caramel Candies at home is such a satisfying experience, and the results are beyond delicious. They balance buttery richness with just a touch of salt, creating a treat that’s truly unforgettable. Whether you’re gifting them to friends or keeping them all to yourself, these candies are guaranteed to bring smiles. Give it a try—you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner!