Sea Salt Caramels
Caramels made in the microwave? Absolutely! And the only gear you need is a candy thermometer. Be sure to use crunchy coarse salt that doesn't melt into the candies.
Ingredients
Directions
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Line a 3-quart rectangular baking dish with foil, extending foil over edges. Butter the foil; set aside. Place butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, condensed milk and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on 100% power (high) for 4 to 5 minutes or until butter is melted, stirring every minute. Microwave for 9 to 16 minutes more or until a candy thermometer inserted in center of mixture* registers 245° (firm-ball stage).** (In a 1000-watt microwave, begin checking temperature at 8 minutes; in a 850-watt microwave, start checking at 12 minutes.)
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When candy reaches firm-ball stage, stir in vanilla. Pour into prepared dish. Sprinkle top of caramel mixture with sea salt. Refrigerate 2 to 3 hours or until firm. To slice, use foil to lift caramel out of the dish. Cut into 100 pieces with a buttered knife. Wrap caramels in squares of waxed paper, twisting ends. Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
*Thermometer tip:
To get an accurate reading, gently swirl the thermometer through the mixture to stir it slightly, then hold it in the center. Do not leave the thermometer clipped to the bowl.
**To test for firm ball stage:
Shortly before reaching temperature, dribble a small spoonful of the hot mixture into a bowl of cold water. Using your fingers, form the mixture into a ball. Out of the water, it should hold its shape but will flatten quickly. If mixture is too soft, microwave for 1 minute more, then retest using a clean spoon and fresh water.
Tips
They’re delicious on their own, but they play well with flavor variations—when you stir in the vanilla, consider adding a teaspoon of orange zest or a half-cup of finely chopped walnuts, dried apple or pretzels.