Ten Minute Microwave Caramels Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of homemade, buttery caramels without a mess of candy thermometers and stovetop drama, get ready to fall in love with Ten Minute Microwave Caramels. Chewy, rich, and endlessly giftable, these caramels are a testament to the magic of the microwave: you get incredible, melt-in-your-mouth candies in just a matter of minutes, no fancy skills required. Whether wrapped up for sharing or nestled into your own secret candy stash, these golden bites bring pure comfort and joy in every square.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Great caramels don’t call for dozens of specialty ingredients — just the basics, each one bringing its own special touch to flavor and texture. Every component in this recipe pulls its weight, and you’ll taste the difference homemade makes from the very first bite.
- Unsalted Butter: The foundation for richness and a satiny-smooth caramel texture.
- Light Corn Syrup: Vital for keeping your caramels soft and preventing unwanted crystallization.
- Brown Sugar (packed): Adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor that sets these caramels apart.
- Granulated Sugar: Balances out the sweetness and helps with the structure.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: The secret ingredient for luxurious creaminess and an unbeatable chewy bite.
- Salt: Just a splash brings out all the flavors and adds dimension to the sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract: Stirred in at the end for that characteristic buttery aroma and warm finish.
How to Make Ten Minute Microwave Caramels
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly greasing it. This not only prevents sticking but also makes it so much easier to lift out your finished caramels for easy slicing and sharing. Give some attention to the corners so nothing escapes your spatula later!
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Grab a large microwave-safe (ideally glass) bowl, at least 2 quarts in size—you want plenty of room for bubbling. Into the bowl, add the butter, corn syrup, both sugars, sweetened condensed milk, and salt. Give it all a quick stir to roughly combine. You’ll notice the rich, golden color even before the magic happens.
Step 3: Microwave and Stir
Microwave the mixture on high for six minutes, pausing every two minutes to give it a good stir. This keeps the mixture smooth and prevents scorching. Each stir, you’ll see the transformation from a simple mix to a molten, caramel masterpiece coming together!
Step 4: Final Cook for Perfect Caramels
After those first six minutes, stir one more time, then microwave for an additional 2 to 4 minutes. The exact time depends on both your microwave’s wattage and how soft or firm you want the caramels. If you have a candy thermometer, you’re aiming for 238 to 242°F. Don’t worry, even without a thermometer, a few extra seconds is the only thing standing between super soft and firm, chewy caramels—so watch closely!
Step 5: Add Vanilla and Pour
Carefully take the bowl out—handle with care, caramel gets incredibly hot! Stir in the vanilla extract, which will sizzle and fill your kitchen with that classic caramel aroma. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan, using a spatula to coax every luscious bit out. If you love salted caramels, now’s the moment to add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top.
Step 6: Cool, Cut, and Wrap
Let the caramels cool at room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours until totally set. Once firm, lift the caramel slab from the pan using the parchment, then slice into squares. Traditional, rustic, or bite-sized—however you cut them, wrap each in wax paper to keep them fresh and satisfyingly chewy.
How to Serve Ten Minute Microwave Caramels
Garnishes
For extra flair, scatter a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before the caramels set for that irresistible sweet-salty finish. A dusting of crushed nuts, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or even a swirl of espresso powder can bring bold flavors that play perfectly with the buttery base.
Side Dishes
While these caramels shine solo, they’re also delightful alongside a strong cup of coffee, a creamy affogato, or as a surprise tucked beside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair especially well with crisp fruit slices or a cheese plate for a sweet-salty twist at the end of a meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Ten Minute Microwave Caramels also make the dreamiest edible gifts. Stack them in a mason jar tied with ribbon, tuck them into mini tins, or wrap each square in festive paper for party favors. For a playful dessert board, mix with chocolates, nuts, and fresh berries—everyone will love these homemade stars!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once wrapped in wax paper, Ten Minute Microwave Caramels will keep their soft texture and tempting chew for up to two weeks stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Be sure to keep them in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight or heat so they don’t lose their shape.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead for special occasions or holidays, you’re in luck: these caramels freeze beautifully! Wrap individual pieces tightly, place them in a zip-top freezer bag or container, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving for best texture.
Reheating
Caramels aren’t meant to be served hot, but if yours firm up a bit much, you can soften them slightly by microwaving an unwrapped piece for just 3 to 5 seconds. Otherwise, let them come to room temperature naturally for perfect, chewy consistency every time.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Absolutely! If you use salted butter, simply reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe to keep the flavors balanced. Your Ten Minute Microwave Caramels will still turn out deliciously buttery and smooth.
What’s the best way to cut the caramels cleanly?
For neat squares, use a sharp knife lightly greased with butter or cooking spray. If the caramels are too sticky, chill them in the fridge for 15 minutes before slicing, and re-grease the knife as needed.
How do I know when the caramels are done if I don’t have a thermometer?
Take a tiny spoonful after microwaving, let it cool quickly, and check for a soft, chewy texture. If the caramels are too runny, microwave in 30-second intervals until you reach that perfect, chewy consistency.
Can I double the recipe?
Doubling is possible, but use a larger microwave-safe bowl (at least 4 quarts) to prevent overflow. Cooking time will increase; stir frequently and check often to avoid burning.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in Ten Minute Microwave Caramels are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe and scrumptious treat for nearly everyone.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about whipping up homemade candy in minutes—and these Ten Minute Microwave Caramels truly deliver on both ease and wow-factor. Whether you’re making a sweet surprise for friends or treating yourself, I can’t recommend this recipe enough. Give it a try, and let the nostalgia and flavor win you over—one irresistible caramel at a time!
Print
Ten Minute Microwave Caramels Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including cooling)
- Yield: 64 pieces 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these decadent and easy-to-make Ten Minute Microwave Caramels that are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings in no time. These soft, buttery caramels are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, corn syrup, both sugars, sweetened condensed milk, and salt.
- Microwave: Microwave on high for 6 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes. Stir well and microwave for another 2–4 minutes until desired firmness.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract after microwaving.
- Pour and Cool: Pour the hot caramel into the prepared pan and let it cool at room temperature for 1–2 hours until set.
- Cut and Store: Once firm, cut into squares and wrap in wax paper for storage.
Notes
- Use caution as caramel can be very hot.
- Adjust cooking time for preferred caramel texture.
- Try adding flaky sea salt for a salted caramel variation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
