We’ve always been drawn to the irresistible allure of homemade candies, and our Bourbon Caramels recipe takes it up a notch with a splash of that smooth Kentucky spirit. This classic treat blends creamy sweetness with bourbon’s warm, oaky notes for a decadent twist that’s perfect for gifting or indulging.
As food enthusiasts we’ve refined this recipe to capture the essence of American bourbon culture while keeping it simple for your kitchen. Whether you’re a caramel aficionado or new to boozy sweets you’ll love how easy it is to create these chewy gems that pack a flavorful punch.
Ingredients
In our Bourbon Caramels recipe, we select high-quality ingredients that blend creamy sweetness with the bold, oaky notes of bourbon. Below, we list them in the order we use them, with prep specifics for perfect results.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: The base for caramelizing; ensure it’s measured precisely for even melting.
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup: Added next to prevent crystallization and achieve a smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed: We use this for creaminess; cube it ahead and keep at room temperature for easy incorporation.
- 1 cup heavy cream, warmed: Warmed gently to avoid shocking the hot sugar mixture; this ensures a silky consistency.
- 1/4 cup bourbon: Our choice for infusing rich, Kentucky-inspired flavors—opt for a high-quality straight bourbon.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Stirred in later for enhanced depth and aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Final touch to balance the sweetness and highlight the bourbon’s complexity.
Equipment Needed
To perfectly execute our Bourbon Caramels recipe, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure precise temperature control, even heating, and easy shaping. These items help us achieve that signature creamy texture and rich bourbon flavor without any hitches.
Here’s a curated list of the key equipment we recommend:
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan: This is crucial for melting sugar and butter evenly to prevent scorching. We prefer one that holds at least 2 quarts to accommodate the mixture as it bubbles.
- Candy thermometer: Accuracy is key in caramel-making, so we always use a reliable digital or clip-on thermometer to monitor temperatures up to 250°F (121°C) for the soft-ball stage.
- Heat-resistant silicone spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring the mixture without melting or scratching your cookware, we suggest a sturdy spatula that withstands high heat.
- 8×8-inch baking dish or silicone candy molds: These allow us to pour and set the caramel smoothly. Line with parchment paper for easy removal—we find this step indispensable for clean cuts.
- Parchment paper or nonstick silicone mat: We use this to line molds or dishes, ensuring the caramels release effortlessly and maintain their shape.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision matters with ingredients like bourbon and cream, so we opt for a set of stainless steel cups and spoons for accurate measurements.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter: Once the caramels cool, we use this to slice them into uniform pieces, making them gift-ready with minimal effort.
By preparing these tools in advance, we streamline the process and focus on the joy of creating delicious, homemade Bourbon Caramels that impress every time.
Instructions
We love creating these rich, buttery Bourbon Caramels that blend creamy sweetness with the warm, oaky notes of Kentucky bourbon, ensuring a treat that’s both indulgent and straightforward to make at home.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we dive into cooking, let’s get our ingredients ready for seamless execution. Start by measuring out 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of light corn syrup, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (cut into pieces for quicker melting), and 1 cup of heavy cream—warm the cream in the microwave for 1 minute to prevent shocking the mixture. Next, have 1/4 cup of bourbon, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt measured and set aside. Pro tip: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring the paper extends over the edges for easy removal later—this step guarantees clean, professional-looking caramels.
Cook the Caramel
Let’s build the base of our caramels by cooking the mixture to golden perfection. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring constantly with a heat-resistant spatula until the butter melts and the mixture begins to bubble—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Once bubbling, insert a candy thermometer and continue cooking without stirring until the temperature reaches soft-ball stage at 245°F, which typically takes 10-15 minutes; the mixture will turn a deep amber color and emit a rich, caramelized aroma that fills your kitchen. For precision, we’ve outlined key temperature checkpoints in the table below to help achieve that ideal creamy texture every time.
| Temperature (°F) | Stage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 230 | Thread stage | Mixture starts to thicken slightly. |
| 235 | Beginning soft-ball | Syrup forms a soft ball in cold water. |
| 245 | Soft-ball | Perfect for caramels—smooth and chewy. |
Add the Bourbon
With the caramel base ready, it’s time to infuse our signature bourbon flavor for that extra depth. Once the mixture hits 245°F, remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully stir in the warmed heavy cream—it will bubble vigorously so pour slowly to avoid splattering. Immediately follow with 1/4 cup of bourbon, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, stirring vigorously for about 1 minute until fully incorporated; the aroma will intensify with the bourbon’s smoky, oaky essence blending seamlessly into the warm caramel, creating a luxurious, boozy profile that’s hard to resist.
Cool and Cut the Caramels
Finally, let’s set our caramels so they achieve that perfect chewy consistency. Pour the hot mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula, and let it cool at room temperature for 2 hours or until firm to the touch—the surface will set with a glossy sheen and the scent of bourbon will linger temptingly. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the block into 1-inch squares, dipping the knife in hot water between cuts for clean edges; this yields about 64 pieces from an 8×8-inch dish, making them ideal for gifting or savoring on their own. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As we wrap up our detailed guide to crafting Bourbon Caramels, let’s explore how to prepare them in advance for effortless enjoyment. This approach allows us to maximize flavor development while saving time, ensuring our caramels remain irresistibly creamy and infused with that signature oaky bourbon essence.
Preparing the Caramel Base Ahead of Time
We recommend making the caramel base up to 5 days in advance to let the bourbon’s rich notes meld perfectly. Start by following our cooking instructions up to the point where the mixture reaches 245°F (soft-ball stage). Once achieved, pour the hot caramel into the prepared baking dish as directed. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature for about 2 hours, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
Italicize this tip for emphasis: Avoid refrigerating at this stage to prevent the caramel from sweating and altering its smooth texture.
Storing and Freezing Options
For longer storage, we suggest freezing the cooled caramel block or cut pieces. This method preserves the Bourbon Caramels‘ decadent sweetness and prevents crystallization. Here’s how:
- For short-term storage (up to 1 week): Place the cooled, uncut caramel in an airtight container at room temperature. If cut, wrap individual pieces in wax paper to maintain their glossy finish.
- For freezing (up to 3 months): Wrap the caramel block tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag. For cut pieces, layer them between parchment paper in a container to avoid sticking.
When you’re ready to use them, thaw frozen caramels in the refrigerator overnight. This gentle process ensures the texture stays velvety without losing the bourbon’s warm undertones.
Storage Duration Guidelines
To help us track the longevity of our Bourbon Caramels, we’ve compiled the following data in a table. This outlines optimal storage methods and their respective durations for maintaining peak quality.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 1 week | Store in a cool, dry place; ideal for immediate gifting or serving. |
| Refrigeration | Up to 2 weeks | Use an airtight container; bring to room temperature before enjoying to restore softness. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Thaw slowly in the fridge; avoid microwave to prevent melting unevenly. |
By following these steps, we can enjoy our homemade Bourbon Caramels at their best, whether for spontaneous treats or planned occasions.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this Bourbon Caramels recipe to bring joy and flavor into your kitchen. It’s more than a treat—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients and bold tastes that impress every time.
As food enthusiasts, we’re thrilled you’ve joined us on this journey. Dive in, experiment, and let these caramels become your go-to indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Bourbon Caramels?
Bourbon Caramels are a homemade treat that blends creamy caramel with the rich, oaky flavors of Kentucky bourbon. This recipe balances sweet and bold notes, making it perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. It’s an easy way to experience American bourbon culture, appealing to caramel lovers and newcomers alike.
What ingredients are needed for Bourbon Caramels?
You’ll need 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light corn syrup, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup warmed heavy cream, 1/4 cup bourbon, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon sea salt. These high-quality ingredients create a smooth texture and enhance the flavors for a luxurious result.
What equipment is required to make Bourbon Caramels?
Essential tools include a heavy-bottomed saucepan for even heating, a candy thermometer for precise temperature, a heat-resistant spatula or wooden spoon for stirring, and an 8×8-inch baking dish or silicone molds. Don’t forget parchment paper for easy removal and a sharp knife for clean cuts to streamline the process.
How do I make Bourbon Caramels at home?
Start by preparing ingredients and heating sugar, corn syrup, and butter in a saucepan to 245°F (soft-ball stage). Add warmed cream, bourbon, vanilla, and salt, then stir until smooth. Pour into a lined dish, cool completely, and cut into squares. Follow the steps carefully for perfect texture and flavor.
Can I make Bourbon Caramels ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the caramel base up to 5 days in advance to let flavors develop. This makes it ideal for planning events. Simply store as directed to maintain quality, allowing you to enjoy fresh treats whenever needed.
How should I store Bourbon Caramels?
Store Bourbon Caramels at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, refrigerate for up to a month, or freeze for up to 3 months. Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and preserve freshness for the best taste.