Soft Chocolate Caramels have this incredible ability to transport you straight to your happy place with just one bite. I’ve always been a sucker for that perfect balance of sweet, chewy caramel and rich, decadent chocolate. These truly are ‘melt in your mouth chocolate caramels’, dissolving on your tongue in the most delightful way. The joy of creating ‘homemade soft chocolate caramels’ is immense, and they make the most thoughtful gifts or a wonderful personal indulgence. If you’re ready to impress yourself and your loved ones, let’s dive into making these irresistible treats!
Why You’ll Love This Soft Chocolate Caramels Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with these amazing treats! They offer that perfect, irresistible soft texture that just melts in your mouth. The rich chocolate flavor combined with the creamy caramel is pure bliss. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make, proving that ‘easy soft chocolate caramels’ are totally achievable for home bakers like us. You’ll love the versatility – they’re fantastic for gifting, perfect for parties, and give you that incredible satisfaction of creating ‘gourmet chocolate caramels soft’ right in your own kitchen. This ‘chewy chocolate caramels recipe’ is a guaranteed winner!
Ingredients for Soft Chocolate Caramels
Gathering the right ‘chocolate caramel candy ingredients’ is the first step to creating these divine treats. For the caramel itself, you’ll need the foundation of richness: 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, which provides incredible moisture and flavor. The magic for that perfect chewiness comes from 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed; its molasses content is key to that classic caramel taste. Then, 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream adds the luxurious creaminess that makes these caramels so decadent. A splash of 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances the flavors, and just a pinch of 1/4 teaspoon salt balances the sweetness beautifully.
Caramel Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Chocolate Coating Ingredients
To achieve that irresistible chocolate shell, you’ll need:
- 1 1/2 cups (250g) semisweet chocolate chips – choose a good quality brand for the best flavor
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – helps create a smooth, glossy coating
- Optional Topping: A pinch of sea salt – for a delightful sweet and salty contrast
How to Make Soft Chocolate Caramels
Let’s get down to business and create these amazing ‘soft chocolate caramel chews’! Making them is a straightforward process, and the results are so worth it. We’ll start by prepping our baking dish, then move on to crafting the perfect caramel base, melting and coating with luscious chocolate, and finally, letting them set to perfection.
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
First things first, grab an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish. For the easiest removal later, carefully line it with parchment paper or wax paper. Make sure to leave some overhang on the sides; this creates little handles that will help you lift the entire slab of caramel out in one piece. This simple step prevents sticking and frustration!
Step 2: Make the Caramel
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Now, this is where the magic happens for ‘melt in your mouth chocolate caramels’: bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat slightly and continue to cook, stirring often, until it reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer. This temperature is crucial for that perfect soft, chewy texture. Once it hits the target temperature, immediately pour the hot caramel into your prepared baking dish. Let it cool completely; this usually takes about 1-2 hours at room temperature.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
While the caramel is cooling, let’s prepare the decadent chocolate coating. In a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (a double boiler), combine 1 1/2 cups (250g) semisweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Stir gently until both are completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt them in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. It’s important that the chocolate isn’t too hot when you start dipping, so let it cool slightly for a few minutes.
Step 4: Coat the Caramels
Once your caramel slab is completely cool and firm, use the parchment paper overhangs to lift it out of the dish. Place it on a clean cutting board and cut it into your desired caramel shapes – squares or rectangles are classic. Now, dip each caramel piece into the slightly cooled melted chocolate, using a fork or a dipping tool. Make sure each piece is fully coated. Place the chocolate-covered caramels back onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray.
Step 5: Let the Chocolate Set
Once all your caramels are coated, let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator for about 30-60 minutes, or until the chocolate coating is firm. If you like that extra touch of gourmet flair, now’s the time to sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt over the top of each caramel before the chocolate is completely hardened. This adds a wonderful sweet and salty contrast!
Pro Tips for the Best Soft Chocolate Caramels
Achieving those perfect, melt-in-your-mouth textures for your homemade treats is all about a few key details. Follow these tips, and you’ll be making the ‘best soft chocolate caramels’ in no time!
What’s the secret to perfectly soft chocolate caramels?
The absolute key is accurate temperature control! Cooking the caramel to precisely 240°F (115°C) is non-negotiable for that signature soft chew. Using good quality ingredients, especially the heavy cream and chocolate, also makes a huge difference in flavor and texture.
Can I make soft chocolate caramels ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the caramel base a day or two in advance and store it, well-wrapped, at room temperature. You can also make the fully coated caramels and store them before coating. Just ensure they are properly wrapped to maintain freshness.
How do I avoid common mistakes with soft chocolate caramels?
The most common issue is the caramel being too hard or too soft, which often comes down to temperature. If your caramels are too hard, they were likely cooked too hot. If they’re too soft and don’t set, they weren’t cooked hot enough. This addresses the common question of ‘why are my chocolate caramels not soft’. Also, ensure your chocolate isn’t too hot when dipping!
Best Ways to Serve Soft Chocolate Caramels
These delightful ‘soft chocolate caramel candy’ treats are so versatile! They’re absolutely perfect served as a standalone indulgence, offering that satisfying chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor. I love arranging them on a festive candy platter alongside other homemade goodies for parties or holidays. They also make a fantastic addition to desserts; imagine crumbling one over ice cream or using them as a topping for cakes! For a truly gourmet experience, pair these ‘chocolate caramel chews recipe’ creations with a warm cup of coffee or a soothing cup of tea. They truly elevate any occasion!
Nutrition Facts for Soft Chocolate Caramels
These ‘soft chocolate caramels’ are a delightful indulgence, and here’s a look at what you can expect per serving. Keep in mind that these are approximate values for one ‘soft chocolate caramel candy’.
- Serving Size: 1 caramel
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of chocolate chips.
How to Store and Reheat Soft Chocolate Caramels
Proper storage is key to keeping your delicious ‘homemade chewy chocolate caramels’ tasting their best. Once your beautiful chocolate-covered caramels have fully set, it’s time to preserve them. For the best results, store the coated caramels in an airtight container at room temperature. I’ve found they stay wonderfully fresh and retain that perfect chewy texture for up to a week when stored this way. Make sure they aren’t packed too tightly to avoid sticking.
If you find yourself with a surplus or want to make a big batch ahead of time, freezing is a fantastic option for these ‘soft chocolate caramel candy’ delights. Wrap each caramel individually in parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months! To enjoy them later, simply transfer the frozen caramels to the refrigerator overnight to thaw gently. This method helps maintain their texture and flavor beautifully.
Variations for Your Soft Chocolate Caramels
Once you’ve mastered the classic ‘soft chocolate caramel candy’, you’ll love experimenting with these fun variations! They’re a fantastic way to customize your ‘chocolate fudge caramels chocolate’ creations to suit any taste. For a delightful crunch, try adding about half a cup of chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts to the caramel mixture right before pouring it into the pan. You can also play with the chocolate coating – swap the semisweet chips for dark chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor, or use milk chocolate for a sweeter profile. Another elegant touch is to create a beautiful swirl effect on top of the ‘chewy caramel with chocolate coating’ by drizzling a bit of contrasting melted chocolate over the set coating and swirling it gently with a toothpick.
Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Chocolate Caramels
What is the ideal temperature for soft caramels?
The sweet spot for achieving that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture in your ‘soft chocolate caramels’ is precisely 240°F (115°C). This is often referred to as the ‘firm ball’ stage. Using a reliable candy thermometer is your best friend here. If you go much higher, you risk making them too hard, and if you don’t reach it, they might be too runny and won’t set properly.
Can I use a different type of sugar for these soft chocolate caramels?
While packed brown sugar is ideal for that classic chewy texture and rich molasses flavor in these ‘homemade soft chocolate caramels’, you can experiment. A mix of granulated and brown sugar can work, but it might alter the texture slightly. I’d recommend sticking to the recipe’s brown sugar for the best results, especially if you’re aiming for that signature chewiness. White sugar alone won’t give you the same depth of flavor or softness.
How do I get a smooth chocolate coating on my soft chocolate caramels?
Achieving a smooth, glossy chocolate coating for your ‘chewy chocolate caramels recipe’ is all about technique! First, use good quality chocolate chips or chopped chocolate. Melt them gently, either in a double boiler or in the microwave on low power, stirring frequently. It’s crucial not to overheat the chocolate, as this can make it seize or become grainy. Let the melted chocolate cool slightly before dipping your caramels; if it’s too hot, it can melt the caramel base too much. Dipping them quickly and placing them on parchment paper helps the coating set smoothly.
What are soft chocolate caramels?
‘Soft chocolate caramels’ are a delightful confection featuring a chewy, pliable caramel center enrobed in a smooth chocolate shell. Unlike harder caramels, these are designed to be tender and yielding, often described as ‘melt in your mouth chocolate caramels’. They strike a perfect balance between the buttery sweetness of caramel and the rich decadence of chocolate, making them a truly irresistible treat.
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Divine Soft Chocolate Caramels: Melt in Your Mouth Bliss
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 – 30 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Soft Chocolate Caramels are the perfect blend of creamy caramel and rich chocolate. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are easy to make and ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing homemade gifts or simply indulging, these caramels will quickly become your go-to sweet treat.
Ingredients
- For the Caramel:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1 1/2 cups (250g) semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Optional Topping:
- A pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment or wax paper for easy removal.
- Make the Caramel: Melt butter in a saucepan, then add brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt. Use a candy thermometer to reach 240°F (115°C) for a soft texture. Pour into the prepared pan and let it cool.
- Melt the Chocolate: Melt chocolate chips and butter in a double boiler or microwave. Stir until smooth.
- Coat the Caramels: Dip each caramel into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Place on parchment-lined sheets to set.
- Let the Chocolate Set: Chill for 30-60 minutes to harden the chocolate coating. Optionally sprinkle with sea salt.
Notes
- Don’t Rush the Caramel-Making Process: Stir constantly and use a candy thermometer to reach the perfect consistency.
- Let the Chocolate Cool: Let the chocolate cool slightly before dipping to avoid a runny coating.
- Use Quality Chocolate: The flavor of the chocolate makes a big difference in the final treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 caramel
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Soft Chocolate Caramels, Caramel Candy, Chocolate Covered Caramels, Homemade Caramels, Sweet Treats, Dessert Gifts
