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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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