Description

Rich, chewy homemade chocolate caramels with deep cocoa flavor and buttery sweetness, finished with optional flaky sea salt for a perfect sweet-and-salty treat.

Ingredients

1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

1/4 cup (22 g) unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces

1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar

1 cup (240 ml) light corn syrup

1/4 tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla extract

Flaky sea salt (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides. Lightly grease the parchment.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, cocoa powder, and butter. Stir until smooth and fully melted. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
Attach a candy thermometer and stop stirring. Cook until the mixture reaches 320°F (160°C) and turns a deep caramel color.
Carefully pour the warm chocolate-cream mixture into the caramel. Stir slowly as it bubbles vigorously.
Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C) for a firm but chewy texture.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Pour into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
Let cool at room temperature for at least 4 hours until firm.
Lift from the pan using parchment overhang and cut into bite-sized squares. Wrap individually in wax paper if desired.

Notes

Cook to 240°F (115°C) for softer caramels or up to 250°F (121°C) for firmer texture.

Use a reliable candy thermometer for best results.

Grease knife lightly and clean between cuts for neat slices.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Freeze up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 caramel
Calories: 70
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 20mg
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0.5g
Cholesterol: 10mg