Ten Minute Microwave Caramels Recipe
This quick and easy Ten Minute Microwave Caramels recipe yields soft, chewy homemade caramels in just minutes. Made with classic ingredients like butter, brown and white sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk, these caramels are microwaved to perfection and flavored with vanilla for a rich, buttery treat. Perfect for gifting or satisfying a sweet craving!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
- Total Time: 10-12 minutes plus cooling time
- Yield: 2 servings (approximately 16 small caramels)
- Category: Candy
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Caramel Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Butter an 8-inch square pan for easy caramel removal. For thicker caramels, use a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Optionally, line the buttered pan with foil and butter the foil as well to ensure the caramels don’t stick.
- Melt Butter: In a large microwave-safe bowl, microwave 1/2 cup butter on high for about 1 minute until melted completely.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in the light corn syrup, light brown sugar, white sugar, and sweetened condensed milk with the melted butter. Keep stirring until most of the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- First Microwave Cooking: Microwave the mixture on high for 3 minutes and 5 to 15 seconds, starting with 3 minutes 5 seconds to avoid overcooking. Remove and stir thoroughly, scraping down the sides of the bowl to blend all ingredients evenly.
- Second Microwave Cooking & Add Vanilla: Return the bowl to the microwave and cook again on high for another 3 minutes and 5 to 15 seconds. Once done, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Set the Caramels: Immediately pour the hot caramel mixture into the prepared pan. Allow the caramels to cool and set for several hours at room temperature.
- Cut and Store: Once firm, cut the caramels into squares and wrap each piece individually in waxed paper for storage or gifting.
Notes
- Microwave times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave; start with the minimum suggested time to prevent burning.
- For softer caramels, opt for the shorter microwave times.
- Using a buttered foil lining helps with removing the caramels easily without sticking.
- Store wrapped caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- You can adjust the size of the caramel squares depending on your preference.
