Ina Garten Sea Salt Caramels Recipe

This Ina Garten Sea Salt Caramels Recipe is perfect. It is rich and very buttery. Learning how to make Ina Garten Sea Salt Caramels is fun.

You will love the chewy texture. The sea salt adds a great crunch. It balances the sweet sugar perfectly.

Many people find candy making scary. But this recipe is quite simple. You just need some patience.

Your friends will think you are a pro. This Ina Garten Sea Salt Caramels Recipe is a classic. It makes a wonderful gift for holidays.

Everyone will ask for your secret. Let’s start cooking this delicious treat together!

When I first introduced to Ina Garten Sea Salt Caramels

I first saw this recipe on TV. Ina Garten made it look so easy. I was nervous about boiling sugar.

But the smell was amazing. It smelled like toasted butter. I shared them with my neighbors.

They ate every single piece quickly. Since then, I make them every year. It is now a family favorite.

You will feel proud making them. They taste better than store-bought candy. The golden color is truly beautiful.

You will love the homemade taste. It is a very rewarding process.

Equipment List

• One heavy-duty saucepan.
• A candy thermometer.
• One 8-inch square baking pan.
• Parchment paper.
• A sharp kitchen knife.
• A silicone spatula.
• Measuring cups and spoons.

Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Sea Salt Caramels

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream.
• 1/2 cup thick sweetened condensed milk.
• 2 cups granulated white sugar.
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cubed).
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons coarse sea salt.
• Extra butter for the pan.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Baking Pan

First, grease your 8-inch pan. Use a little bit of butter. Line it with parchment paper. Let the paper hang over sides. This helps you lift it later.

2. Mix Cream and Milk

Take a small microwave-safe bowl. Mix the cream and condensed milk. Warm it for one minute. Set it aside for later use.

3. Boil Sugar and Syrup

Put sugar and syrup in the saucepan. Add 1/4 cup of water. Stir it over medium heat. Let the sugar dissolve completely. Do not stir after it boils.

4. Cook to Golden Amber

Watch the sugar mixture closely. Let it turn a light amber. This takes about 10 minutes. Use your candy thermometer here. It should reach 320 degrees F.

5. Add Butter and Cream

Turn off the heat carefully. Slowly whisk in the butter cubes. Then pour in the warm cream. The mixture will bubble a lot. Be very careful with steam.

6. Reach the Final Temperature

Turn the heat back to medium. Stir the caramel constantly now. Reach 248 degrees F exactly. This is the “firm ball” stage.

7. Add Flavor and Cool

Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract. Pour it into the prepared pan. Do not scrape the bottom. Let it sit for 20 minutes.

8. Sprinkle the Sea Salt

Now, sprinkle the sea salt over. The caramel should be slightly firm. The salt will stick nicely. Let it cool for 4 hours.

9. Cut into Pieces

Lift the caramel using the paper. Use a very sharp knife. Cut into small, even squares. You can wipe the knife often.

10. Wrap the Caramels

Cut small pieces of wax paper. Wrap each caramel square tightly. Twist the ends like a candy. This keeps them fresh and soft.

Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Sea Salt Caramels

• Use a high-quality candy thermometer.
• Do not rush the boiling process.
• Keep kids and pets away. Boiling sugar is very hot.
• Use high-quality butter for better flavor.
• Warm the cream before adding it. This prevents the sugar from seizing.
• Wash down sugar crystals on sides. Use a wet pastry brush.
• Wait for the caramel to set. Cutting too early is messy.
• Store them in a cool place. They might melt in heat.
• Use Fleur de Sel for salt. It has the best crunch.

FAQs about Ina Garten Sea Salt Caramels

Can I use salted butter instead?

Yes, you can use it. Just reduce the extra sea salt.

How do I store these caramels?

Store them in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature.

Why is my caramel too soft?

The temperature was likely too low. It must reach 248 degrees.

Can I freeze these treats?

Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap them very well in plastic.

How long do they stay fresh?

They stay fresh for two weeks. Keep them away from moisture.

Final Thoughts

This Ina Garten Sea Salt Caramels Recipe is a joy. It brings a touch of luxury home.

The ingredients for Ina Garten Sea Salt Caramels are simple. But the result is truly amazing.

You now know how to make Ina Garten Sea Salt Caramels. It is a skill you will cherish.

Share these with the people you love. They make every occasion feel special. Happy cooking and enjoy your sweets!