Homemade Salted Caramel Chews Recipe

Hey there! Today, we’re diving into a sweet treat that will absolutely steal the show—Salted Caramel Chews. These little bites of heaven combine the rich, buttery flavor of caramel with a kiss of sea salt, striking the perfect balance of sweet and salty. They’re like a homemade hug you can snack on, and trust me, they’re dangerously addictive! Inspired by chilly afternoons when I just wanted something indulgent and satisfying, these chews are made with a handful of pantry staples and a lot of love.

If you’re looking for a treat that’s equal parts indulgent, nostalgic, and ridiculously easy to make, these Salted Caramel Chews are your new best friend!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for sharing—think holidays, gift bags, or a sweet snack for family movie nights.
• Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
• Takes less than 30 minutes to make, start to finish!
• Completely customizable—make them softer, chewier, or saltier to suit your taste.

Ingredients Breakdown

Essentials:

• Sugar: The base of your caramel. Granulated white sugar works best for a smooth texture.
• Butter: Adds richness. Unsalted is ideal, but if using salted, just adjust the sea salt topping.
• Heavy Cream: Creates that lush, creamy texture. Don’t substitute with milk—you need the fat content here.
• Light Corn Syrup: Helps prevent crystallization, keeping your caramel smooth and glossy.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth. Pure vanilla is always worth the splurge!
• Sea Salt: The pièce de résistance! Flaky sea salt like Maldon really takes these chews to the next level.

Pro Tips:

• Use a candy thermometer for accuracy—it’s the secret to achieving that perfect chewy texture.
• If you don’t have flaky sea salt, kosher salt works well, too.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, light corn syrup, and ¼ cup water. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar, then stop stirring and let the mixture come to a boil.
3. Once boiling, clip on your candy thermometer and cook until the mixture reaches 245°F (firm ball stage). This takes about 6-8 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in butter, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. The mixture will bubble up—work slowly and steadily!
5. Return the saucepan to low heat and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 245°F again.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Immediately pour the caramel into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
8. Sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt while the caramel is still warm.
9. Let the caramel cool completely at room temperature for about 2 hours. Once set, lift it out using the parchment overhang and cut into small squares with a sharp knife. Wrap individual pieces in wax paper if desired.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Cut Clean, Every Time: Spray your knife with a bit of non-stick cooking spray to prevent it from sticking when cutting the caramels.
• Storage Solution: Wrap the pieces individually in wax paper to keep them fresh and portable.
• Extra Flair: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a decadent twist.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Add a touch of spice by mixing in ground cinnamon or nutmeg with the vanilla extract.
• Stir in finely chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for extra texture.
• Serve these chews alongside coffee or hot cocoa for an unforgettable treat duo.

FAQs

Q: How do I store these caramel chews?

A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I make these chews without a candy thermometer?

A: A thermometer is highly recommended for precision, but if you don’t have one, watch for the firm ball stage when the caramel dropped into cold water forms a firm but pliable ball.

Q: Are these chews soft or firm?

A: These are classic chewy caramels, but if you prefer them on the firmer side, cook the mixture a few degrees higher.

Recipe Card

Let me know how your Salted Caramel Chews turn out by leaving a comment below or tagging your creations on social media with #TheKitchensAid. I can’t wait to see (and maybe even drool over) your caramel masterpieces! Happy cooking!