Indulge in Homemade Vanilla Bean Caramels: A Beginner's Delight
Craving a sweet treat that's both luxurious and simple to make? Dive into the world of candy-making with these Homemade Vanilla Bean Caramels. Infused with the rich, aromatic essence of real vanilla beans, these soft, chewy delights are perfect for gifting or savoring at home. Let's embark on this flavorful journey together!
Why Vanilla Bean Caramels?
Using authentic vanilla beans elevates the classic caramel, imparting a depth of flavor that extracts can't match. The tiny black seeds from the pod not only enhance the taste but also add a gourmet touch to your confections.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract From Vanilla Beans
- 1 vanilla bean pod, split lengthwise and seeds scraped
- 1¼ teaspoons fleur de sel (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring the edges overhang for easy removal. Lightly butter the parchment to prevent sticking.
- Infuse the Cream: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, vanilla bean seeds, and the scraped pod. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat and let it steep for 10-15 minutes to infuse the flavors. After steeping, remove and discard the vanilla bean pod.
- Cook the Sugar Syrup: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook without stirring until the mixture turns a light golden caramel color, approximately 320°F (160°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Combine Mixtures: Carefully and slowly pour the warm vanilla-infused cream into the caramelized sugar. The mixture will bubble vigorously. Stir continuously and cook until the temperature reaches 244°F (118°C), known as the firm-ball stage.
- Set the Caramels: Immediately pour the caramel into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the top with fleur de sel for a delightful contrast of flavors. Allow the caramel to cool completely at room temperature, which may take about 2 hours.
- Cut and Wrap: Once set, lift the caramel slab using the parchment overhang and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut into desired shapes and sizes. Wrap each piece in wax paper or cellophane to prevent sticking.
Tips for Success:
- Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality vanilla beans and fresh cream to achieve the best flavor profile.
- Temperature Precision: Using a candy thermometer ensures accuracy. The firm-ball stage (244°F) is crucial for achieving the perfect caramel texture.
- Safety First: Caramel reaches extremely high temperatures. Handle with care and keep a bowl of ice water nearby in case of accidental contact.
Serving Suggestions:
These vanilla bean caramels make exquisite gifts when packaged in decorative tins or jars. They also serve as delightful accompaniments to coffee or tea, offering a sweet conclusion to any meal.
Conclusion:
Embarking on the journey of homemade candy-making can be both rewarding and delicious. These Vanilla Bean Caramels provide a perfect starting point, combining simplicity with gourmet flair. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to the rich, buttery goodness of homemade caramels.
Ready to create your own batch of sweet indulgence? Share your experience and any personal twists you've added—we'd love to hear how your caramels turned out!
