Microwave Caramels Recipe

Introduction

These Microwave Caramels are a quick and easy way to enjoy rich, buttery sweets without the fuss of stove-top cooking. Made with simple ingredients and cooked in the microwave, they deliver perfectly chewy caramel in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter
• 2 ½ cups packed brown sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 (14-oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla

Instructions

1. Step 1: Generously butter a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan and set it aside.
2. Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of butter on full power.
3. Step 3: Once melted, add the brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk to the bowl. Stir well to combine.
4. Step 4: Microwave the mixture on full power for 4-5 minutes. Remove and stir thoroughly.
5. Step 5: Microwave again for another 4-5 minutes. Stir once more and then add 1 teaspoon of vanilla, mixing well.
6. Step 6: Pour the caramel into the prepared buttered pan. Let it cool completely for 1-2 hours until firm.
7. Step 7: Cut the caramel into squares and wrap each piece in wax paper.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer caramel, use a high-quality unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract.
• To add a twist, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before the caramel cools for salted caramels.
• If you prefer softer caramels, reduce the second microwave time slightly and test firmness after cooling.

Storage

Store wrapped caramels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To enjoy, remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for a few minutes before unwrapping. They can also be frozen for longer storage; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Brown sugar is essential for the deep flavor and chewiness of these caramels. Substituting with white sugar will change both texture and taste.

What if my microwave doesn’t have a turntable?

If your microwave lacks a turntable, pause halfway through cooking to carefully stir the mixture for even heating and avoid hot spots.

Microwave Caramels Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 74 reviews

• Author: Thomas
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 48 small caramel squares 1x

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Description

This Microwave Caramels recipe delivers rich, buttery caramel squares made quickly and easily using a microwave. With just a few simple ingredients including butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk, you can create luscious homemade caramels perfect for snacking or gift-giving. The process eliminates the need for stovetop candy making, making it accessible for cooks of all levels.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Caramel Ingredients

• 1 cup butter
• 2 ½ cups packed brown sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 (14-oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prep: Generously butter a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan and set it aside to ensure the caramel doesn’t stick once poured.
2. Mix Butter and Sugars: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup of butter completely. To the melted butter, add 2 ½ cups packed brown sugar, 1 cup light corn syrup, and the entire 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
3. Initial Microwave Heating: Microwave the mixture at full power for 4-5 minutes. This step helps dissolve and blend the sugars with butter and milk.
4. Stir and Continue Cooking: Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave and stir the mixture well. Microwave again for an additional 4-5 minutes on full power to reach the desired caramel consistency.
5. Add Vanilla: Remove the caramel mixture from the microwave one final time, stir again, and then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
6. Cool and Set: Pour the hot caramel mixture into the buttered pan, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature for 1-2 hours until firm enough to cut.
7. Cut and Store: Once cooled and set, cut the caramel into squares using a sharp knife. Wrap each piece in wax paper to prevent sticking and store the caramels refrigerated to maintain freshness.

Notes

• Using a microwave-safe bowl is essential to avoid hazards and ensure even heating.
• Be careful when handling the hot caramel mixture to avoid burns.
• Butter the pan generously to make removing caramels easier after cooling.
• Store wrapped caramels in the refrigerator to keep them firm and fresh for up to two weeks.
• If your microwave’s power varies, adjust cooking times slightly to prevent burning or undercooking.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Candy
• Method: Microwaving
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: microwave caramel, homemade caramel, easy caramel recipe, microwave candy, buttery caramel squares