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Easy 6-Minute Microwave Caramels Recipe

Easy 6-Minute Microwave Caramels

Make rich, soft, chewy homemade caramels in the microwave with butter, two kinds of sugar, corn syrup, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla. Stirring at two-minute intervals helps create a smooth, creamy candy.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 11 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Caramel Ingredients
  • 1 cup Butter, cubed
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1 cup Packed light brown sugar
  • 1 cup Light corn syrup
  • 1 14-ounce can Sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Lightly butter a 9-inch square pan, or line it with buttered parchment paper for easier removal.
  2. Place the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, light corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk in a large microwave-safe bowl.
  3. Microwave the mixture uncovered on HIGH for 6 minutes, stirring thoroughly every 2 minutes and scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl.
  4. Immediately stir in the vanilla extract after removing the bowl from the microwave.
  5. Pour the hot caramel into the prepared pan and allow it to cool completely until firm, approximately 1 to 2 hours.
  6. Cut the set caramel into small squares and wrap each piece individually in wax paper or parchment.

Notes

Microwave wattages vary. For the most reliable texture, check that the caramel reaches approximately 238–242°F, the soft-ball stage. Undercooking can produce soft or runny caramels, while overcooking can make them hard. Use a very large bowl because the caramel becomes extremely hot and may foam.