Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these vanilla cream filled caramels! They’re like little bites of heaven that just melt in your mouth, wrapping you in a warm hug of sweetness. I remember the first time I made them; the rich aroma of caramel wafting through my kitchen was enough to make my heart skip a beat! What makes these caramels so special is the luscious vanilla cream center that adds a delightful surprise to each bite. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll never go back to store-bought candy! They’re perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself—no judgment here!). So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this sweet adventure together!

Ingredients List

• 1 cup granulated sugar – This is the base of our caramel, giving it that sweet, sticky goodness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter – For that rich flavor and creamy texture. Make sure it’s softened to blend easily!
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – This adds creaminess to the caramel and makes it melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup – This helps keep the caramel smooth and prevents it from crystallizing.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – The star of our recipe! It brings in that lovely vanilla flavor we all adore.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – This will be mixed with cream cheese for our dreamy filling.
• 1/2 cup cream cheese – Make sure it’s softened too, so it blends perfectly with the powdered sugar!

How to Prepare Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels

Step 1: Make the Caramel

Alright, let’s get started with making our caramel! Grab a heavy-bottomed saucepan—trust me, it helps to prevent burning—and combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, heavy cream, and light corn syrup. Now, turn the heat to medium and stir gently as the mixture heats up. Here’s the important part: you need to cook it until it reaches 245°F on a candy thermometer. This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture! Don’t wander off; stay close and keep an eye on it, because once it starts bubbling, it can go from perfect to burnt in a flash!

Step 2: Add Flavor

Once your caramel has reached that magical 245°F, it’s time to add the vanilla extract. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla. Oh, the aroma that fills your kitchen is simply irresistible! This step is essential because it infuses your caramel with that deep, warm vanilla flavor that pairs so beautifully with the sweetness. Give it a gentle stir to combine, and then you’re ready to pour!

Step 3: Set the Caramel

Now, carefully pour the hot caramel into a greased pan. I like to use an 8×8 inch square pan for perfect-sized caramels. Make sure to spread it out evenly, and then let it cool at room temperature. This is where the magic happens! Allow the caramel to set completely before cutting—this could take about an hour. Patience is key here; if you cut it too soon, you’ll end up with a sticky mess!

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Filling

While your caramel is setting, let’s whip up the cream filling! In a separate bowl, combine the powdered sugar and softened cream cheese. Using a hand mixer, beat them together until smooth and creamy. You want a fluffy texture that’s easy to pipe or spoon into the caramels. If the mixture feels too thick, you can add a splash of milk to loosen it up a bit. Just make sure it’s still thick enough to hold its shape!

Step 5: Fill the Caramels

Once your caramel is set, it’s time to cut it into squares! I like to use a sharp knife lightly coated with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Cut the caramel into even squares and then, using your fingers or a small spoon, fill each square with a tiny dollop of that delightful cream filling. Be careful not to overfill, or you might end up with a gooey situation—trust me, I’ve been there!

Step 6: Wrapping and Storing

Now, let’s wrap these little gems! Take a piece of wax paper and place a filled caramel in the center. Fold the paper over and twist the ends to seal them up. This not only keeps them fresh but also gives them that classic candy look! Store your wrapped caramels in an airtight container in a cool place, and they’ll stay delicious for up to two weeks. But honestly, they probably won’t last that long—they’re just too tempting!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• These vanilla cream filled caramels are incredibly easy to make, even for beginners!
• With a rich and buttery caramel exterior, each bite is pure bliss.
• The surprise creamy vanilla filling adds a delightful twist that will have everyone coming back for more.
• They’re perfect for gifting or sharing at parties—everyone loves homemade candy!
• Store them in an airtight container, and they stay fresh for weeks (if they last that long!).
• You can customize them by adding your favorite flavors to the cream filling—endless possibilities!

Tips for Success

Making vanilla cream filled caramels is a delightful journey, but there are a few tips I swear by to ensure your caramels turn out perfectly every time!

• Use a Candy Thermometer: This is non-negotiable! Without reaching that sweet spot of 245°F, your caramels could end up too hard or too soft. A thermometer takes the guesswork out of it!
• Keep Stirring: When cooking the caramel, stir gently but constantly to prevent it from burning. If you see it starting to darken too quickly, lower the heat a bit.
• Let It Cool: Patience is key! Allow the caramel to set completely before cutting. If you’re in a hurry, it might seem tempting to cut early, but trust me, it’s worth the wait.
• Grease Your Pan Well: Even if you’re using a non-stick pan, giving it a good grease helps ensure the caramel releases easily without tearing.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cream cheese and butter make a noticeable difference in flavor. You want the best for your caramels—don’t skimp here!
• Don’t Overfill: When adding the cream filling, be mindful of how much you’re using. A small dollop is all you need; too much can lead to a messy overflow!

With these tips in mind, you’ll be a caramel-making pro in no time! Enjoy the sweet process and, of course, the delicious results!

Nutritional Information

So, if you’re curious about what’s in these delightful vanilla cream filled caramels, here’s a quick rundown of the estimated nutritional data per serving, which is typically two caramels:

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

These figures are just estimates, but they give you a good idea of the sweet treat you’re indulging in! Remember, moderation is key with these little bites of joy, but I promise they’re worth every calorie!

FAQ Section

Got some questions about these scrumptious vanilla cream filled caramels? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my best answers:

Can I use a different flavor for the cream filling?
Absolutely! While I love the classic vanilla flavor, you can mix it up by adding things like almond extract, chocolate, or even a bit of coffee for a mocha twist. Just remember to adjust the amounts to keep the filling creamy!

How should I store my caramels?
Store your wrapped caramels in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They should stay fresh for about two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, you can pop them in the fridge, but let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture!

Can I freeze these caramels?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to wrap them well in wax paper and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for about a month in the freezer. When you’re ready to indulge, let them thaw in the fridge before diving in!

What can I do if my caramel turns out too hard?
If your caramel is too hard, it might be because it cooked past the 245°F mark. Don’t fret! You can try melting it down again with a splash of cream on low heat to soften it up a bit. Just be careful not to overdo it!

Can I make these caramels vegan?
While this specific recipe isn’t vegan, you can substitute the butter with vegan butter and replace the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative. Just keep an eye on the texture, as it may vary a bit! Experimenting can lead to some delicious discoveries!

Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels: 6 Sweet Bites of Joy

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 30 caramels 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious vanilla cream filled caramels that melt in your mouth.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup cream cheese

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Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, cream, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat until the mixture reaches 245°F.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Pour the caramel into a greased pan and let it cool.
4. In a separate bowl, mix powdered sugar and cream cheese until smooth to make the cream filling.
5. Once the caramel is set, cut it into squares.
6. Fill each square with a small amount of cream filling.
7. Wrap each caramel in wax paper and store in a cool place.

Notes

• Ensure the caramel reaches the correct temperature for the right texture.
• Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
• Store in an airtight container for freshness.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Candy
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 caramels
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: vanilla cream filled caramels