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Arrangement of salted caramels on parchment paper
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5 from 2 votes

Easy Homemade Microwave Salted Caramels

These Easy Homemade Salted Caramels are incredible! Super simple to make in the microwave, they're irresistibly buttery, rich in caramel flavor and perfectly sweet and salty!
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time7 minutes
Total Time37 minutes
Course: Candy, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Dessert
Servings: 48 caramels

Equipment

  • Candy thermometer recommended for accuracy, but not needed

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter cut into 4 pieces
  • 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar lightly packed
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Flaky sea salt for garnishing

Instructions

  • Butter an 8x8 square light metal baking pan, taking care to butter the corners, bottom and sides. Set aside.
  • In a large microwaveable glass bowl, add in the butter and microwave until melted. Add in the white and brown sugar, corn syrup, and condensed milk, whisking the mixture until combined.
  • Microwave on HIGH power for 6-7 minutes (See Note). I recommend taking it out with hot pads at the 6 minute mark and checking it with a candy thermometer for accuracy - the candy thermometer should read 238-242° degrees. Everyone's microwaves are different, so you may need to increase microwave time in 20 second intervals until it reaches temperature.
  • Carefully remove the finished caramel from the microwave and whisk in the vanilla. Pour the mixture into the buttered pan and smooth it into an even layer. Top with flaky sea salt. Allow the caramels to set in the pan for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Cut into 4 rows by 4 rows for a total of 16 squares. Then cut each of those squares into 3 pieces for a total of 48 caramels.
  • Wrap caramels in wax paper if storing.

Notes

Everyone's microwaves run differently, so bear this in mind when preparing this recipe. Some may find their caramels come to temperature at the 6 minute mark; others may need a full 7 minutes. A candy thermometer is the best and most accurate tool in gauging if the candy has cooked completely.