Delightful Caramel Treats
This delightful caramel confection is a gourmet indulgence made from rich cream and sugar, transformed into a sweet treat that tantalizes the taste buds. With a simple preparation method, it's the perfect recipe for those looking to explore the art of candy making at home. The process of heating cream and sugar slowly transforms them into a smooth, velvety caramel, which can then be molded into shapes of your preference. Whether you choose to pour the mixture into small paper cups for a classic presentation or roll it out and slice into delectable morsels, these caramels are sure to impress. They can be a perfect homemade gift or a personal indulgence to be savored with each bite. This recipe allows you to experiment with textures, providing two distinct presentations depending on your preference. Enjoy these caramels as a delightful treat that combines simplicity with gourmet results, offering a taste that's both creamy and sweet. It's a culinary experience that turns basic ingredients into something magical. Serve them as a standalone snack or pair with coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 200g sweet cream
- 100g white sugar
Preparation Time
Total Time: 60 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by preparing your workspace. Lay out all ingredients and tools you'll need: a heavy saucepan, a wooden spoon, baking parchment, and paper cups or a baking sheet.
- Pour the sweet cream into the saucepan, ensuring it is completely coated and ready for even heating.
- Gradually add the white sugar to the cream in the saucepan, stirring gently to blend the two ingredients.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture slowly and continuously to prevent sticking and burning.
- Allow the mixture to reach a gentle simmer. This will take around 10 to 15 minutes.
- Continue stirring as the mixture simmers, ensuring the heat is evenly distributed across the pot.
- Watch as the sugar melts completely and the mixture begins to thicken, turning a warm golden-brown color.
- After approximately 20 to 30 minutes, the liquid should have a syrupy consistency, resembling taffy.
- If using a thermometer, the mixture should reach around 118°C (245°F).
- Once the desired consistency is reached, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- For a classic presentation, pour the hot mixture into small paper cups. Leave space at the top to allow for expansion as it cools.
- Allow the caramels to cool and set at room temperature. This may take an additional 10 minutes.
- Alternatively, you can pour the mixture into long strands onto a sheet of baking parchment.
- Let these caramel "logs" cool until they are firm enough to hold their shape.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the cooled caramel into bite-sized pieces or desired shapes.
- Be sure to work swiftly as the cool caramel will stick if not moved promptly.
- Wrap individual pieces in parchment paper for easy storage or gifting, if desired.
- Enjoy your homemade caramels as a sweet treat or package them to share with friends!
- For enhanced flavor, consider sprinkling a touch of sea salt over the cooling caramels.
- Serve these with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or as a luxurious addition to a tea party spread.
Tips
- Stirring: Consistent stirring is crucial to prevent the mixture from sticking and burning.
- Temperature: For those without a thermometer, a small amount of the mixture, when dropped in cold water, should hold its shape.
- Storage: Store caramels in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture absorption.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per 100g
- Protein: 1g
- Fats: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
Variations
- Vegan Version: Substitute the sweet cream with coconut cream and use a plant-based sugar.
- Flavor Twist: Add a splash of vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful snack.
- Serve as a dessert accompaniment alongside vanilla ice cream.
- Incorporate into a dessert platter with other homemade sweets.
Best Places
- Pierre Hermé - Renowned for its luscious pastries. Location: 72 Rue Bonaparte, Paris, France.
- Maison Bertaux - Oldest patisserie in London. Location: 28 Greek Street, Soho, London, UK.
- Balthazar - Known for classic French artisanal goods. Location: 80 Spring Street, New York, USA.
- Café Central - Offers exquisite pastries in a historic setting. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
- Confiserie Sprüngli - Famed Swiss confectionery. Location: Bahnhofstrasse 21, Zurich, Switzerland.
- A.Baker - Artisan bakery with a creative twist. Location: 15 Edinburgh Avenue, Canberra, Australia.
- Bake Shop - Noted for innovative flavors. Location: 150 Ton That Dam, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
- Pastelería Ideal - Offers variety of traditional sweets. Location: Av. Canal del Norte 370, Mexico City, Mexico.
- Gerard Mulot - Celebrated for exquisite pastries and candies. Location: 76 Rue de Seine, Paris, France.
- Chocolatería San Ginés - Famous for churros and thick hot chocolate. Location: Pasadizo de San Ginés, 5, Madrid, Spain.