Chocolate Covered Caramels

A Sweet Escape: My Chocolate Covered Caramel Adventure

Hello everyone! Today, I'm sharing a recipe that's been a cherished family favorite for years – my irresistible chocolate-covered caramels. These aren't your average store-bought caramels; oh no, these are a league of their own. They're rich, creamy, and have that perfect balance of sweet and decadent chocolate that leaves you craving more. I originally found the base recipe in Southern Living magazine, but over time I’ve tweaked it slightly to create the perfect caramel that's not only delicious, but also easy to make.

I remember the first time I attempted this recipe. I was a young housewife, newly married and eager to impress my husband with my culinary skills. Let's just say it was quite a learning experience. My first batch was a bit… sticky, to put it mildly. But I persevered! Through a few trial and error attempts (and a very understanding husband!), I mastered the art of creating this smooth, melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Now, it’s a staple in our home, perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply a sweet treat to brighten any day.

What makes these caramels so special? It’s the perfect combination of simple, high-quality ingredients and a straightforward process that truly enhances the flavor. The rich, buttery caramel base is made with a blend of butter, sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. The addition of vanilla extract adds a touch of warmth and sophistication. Then, comes the luxurious coating of semi-sweet chocolate. I personally love to use a touch of paraffin wax with my chocolate, which creates a beautifully shiny and smooth finish.

Tips and tricks for success:

• Use a candy thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring your caramel reaches the perfect temperature for a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Don’t stir the caramel while it's cooking initially: Allowing it to boil undisturbed in the beginning helps it to develop its rich color and texture.
• Work quickly once you add the chocolate: The chocolate cools down quickly, so it’s best to dip your caramel squares as quickly as you can.
• Be patient: The chilling time is important for setting both the caramel and the chocolate, allowing you to enjoy the perfect texture.

Beyond the Recipe:

These caramels aren't just a dessert; they’re a memory maker. Over the years, I’ve shared them with friends, family, and even neighbors. They've become a symbol of warmth and connection, a sweet gesture that brightens someone's day. I’ve given them as gifts, included them in holiday baskets, and they've always been a huge hit. The joy on people's faces as they bite into these rich, melt-in-your-mouth treats makes the effort completely worthwhile. I often find myself reflecting on the simple moments of sharing these caramels with loved ones – the laughter, the conversations, the shared joy of a simple yet delicious indulgence. For me, these little squares of sweetness represent the best of home, family, and the joy of simple pleasures.

So, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, you'll find the process incredibly rewarding. And the best part? You'll end up with a batch of decadent, unforgettable chocolate-covered caramels that will impress everyone you share them with!

Step-by-step

• Over medium heat, bring first 3 ingredients to a boil in a saucepan; cook for 7 minutes, without stirring.
• Stir in condensed milk, and bring back to boil.
• Cook, stirring constantly until a candy thermometer reaches 245.
• Remove from heat, and stir in vanilla.
• Pour into lightly greased 8x8 greased baking dish.
• Let stand 8 hours at room temperature.
• Cut caramel into 1/2 inch squares. If you like, you can shape into balls. (I skipped the shaping).
• Melt chocolate and shortening or paraffin in saucepan over medium heat. (I melted mine in the microwave for about 1-1/2 to 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds).
• Remove from heat.
• Dip balls into melted chocolate mixture; place on greased sheet.
• Chill 8 hours.