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How to Make 5-Minute, 5-Ingredient Caramels
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt (optional, but highly recommended for flavor balance)
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, add the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Stir until the butter is melted and the ingredients are well-combined.
- Microwave: Place the bowl in the microwave and heat the mixture on high for 1 minute. Stir the mixture, then return it to the microwave for another 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds. You want the mixture to bubble and thicken slightly.
- Stir in Vanilla and Salt: Once the caramel is hot and bubbling, remove the bowl from the microwave. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. The caramel should be smooth, creamy, and slightly thickened.
- Cool and Set: Pour the caramel into a parchment-lined baking dish (an 8×8-inch dish works great), and spread it out into an even layer. Let the caramel cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, or place it in the fridge to speed up the process. Once cooled, the caramel will firm up and be ready to cut.
- Cut and Enjoy: Once set, cut the caramel into squares or rectangles, and enjoy! You can wrap each piece in parchment paper for easy gifting or storing.
Tips for Perfect Caramels
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your butter is soft and your sweetened condensed milk is fresh for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on the caramel as it heats in the microwave. Overheating can make the caramel too hard, so make sure to remove it once it’s smooth and bubbly.
- Add a Little Extra: For a fun twist, try adding a few extras like a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the caramel for that delicious salty-sweet flavor combo, or even mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of this recipe comes from how quickly it comes together, yet how well it delivers on flavor. The sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar create a rich, caramelized base, while the vanilla and salt elevate the taste, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
In just five minutes, you’ve created a treat that rivals any store-bought caramel, with the added bonus of being homemade and free from any artificial ingredients.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These 5-Minute, 5-Ingredient Caramels are the perfect treat to have on hand. They’re great for:
- Gift-giving: Package them in cute jars or wrapping and give them as a thoughtful, homemade gift for holidays, birthdays, or just because.
- Snack Time: Enjoy them as a sweet treat for yourself. They’re rich and satisfying, so a little goes a long way.
- Parties: These caramels are sure to impress at your next gathering. Serve them alongside other sweet treats for a well-rounded dessert table.
Conclusion
Why spend hours making caramels when you can have them ready in just five minutes with only five simple ingredients? These 5-Minute, 5-Ingredient Caramels are the ultimate quick and easy treat that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or quality. Whether you’re treating yourself, making a gift, or bringing something special to a party, these caramels are sure to impress.
Try them today, and you’ll never want to go back to store-bought caramels again!
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