Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel

If you’re a fan of luscious sweets that combine the perfect balance of creamy and caramel, then this Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel recipe is exactly what you need. Learn how to make rich, smooth Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel with this easy step-by-step recipe for a perfect sweet treat every time. This dessert brings together velvety vanilla cream inside golden caramel shells, creating a heavenly bite that melts in your mouth and keeps you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unforgettable Flavor: The blend of smooth vanilla cream and buttery caramel creates a timeless taste sensation you’ll crave.
• Simple Ingredients: Made from pantry staples, this recipe is accessible and straightforward, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Perfect Texture: Achieving the ideal chewy yet creamy texture is easier than you think, delivering delightful mouthfeel.
• Elevates Any Occasion: These treats make excellent gifts or party favors, impressing friends and family alike.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak for flavor variations or dietary adjustments without losing the essence of the classic Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing the flavor, richness, and texture of these Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels. Using quality, fresh ingredients ensures your candies turn out smooth and irresistible.

• Granulated Sugar: The foundation for caramel’s signature sweetness and color.
• Heavy Cream: Adds luscious creaminess to the caramel and vanilla filling.
• Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and a velvety mouthfeel, keeping the caramel smooth.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Infuses aromatic, natural vanilla flavor into the cream filling.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Enhances caramel sweetness and helps create a soft consistency.
• Light Corn Syrup: Prevents crystallization for that perfect caramel sheen and chewiness.
• Salt: Balances sweetness with a subtle depth to the overall flavor.

Variations for Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel

Feel free to customize your Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel to fit specific tastes or dietary needs. It’s easy to experiment and create personalized versions without sacrificing the core flavors.

• Chocolate Infusion: Add cocoa powder to the cream filling for a mocha caramel twist.
• Salted Caramel Version: Increase the salt amount and sprinkle flakes on top for a trendy salted caramel delight.
• Vegan Adaptation: Substitute dairy with coconut cream and vegan butter for a dairy-free treat.
• Flavored Extracts: Try almond or coffee extract instead of vanilla for a different aromatic profile.
• Nutty Addition: Mix finely chopped toasted nuts into the cream filling for texture contrast.

How to Make Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Base

In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture turns a deep amber color, indicating caramelization.

Step 2: Add Butter and Cream

Remove from heat and carefully whisk in unsalted butter until melted, followed by warmed heavy cream. Stir vigorously to combine into a smooth, glossy caramel sauce. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble vigorously.

Step 3: Cook to Caramel Firmness

Return the saucepan to low heat and simmer, stirring frequently, until the caramel reaches the firm ball stage (245–250°F or 118–121°C) using a candy thermometer, which ensures proper chewiness.

Step 4: Make the Vanilla Cream Filling

While the caramel cools slightly, whisk together sweetened condensed milk with pure vanilla extract. This filling should be silky and sweet, complementing the caramel perfectly.

Step 5: Assemble the Caramels

Pour the caramel mixture onto a greased parchment-lined tray and let it cool just until pliable. Cut into small squares, then carefully flatten each piece and spoon a dollop of vanilla cream filling inside. Fold the caramel around the filling and pinch edges to seal.

Step 6: Final Setting and Wrapping

Allow the caramels to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator until firm. Wrap each individually in wax paper to prevent sticking and maintain freshness.

Pro Tips for Making Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel

• Use a Candy Thermometer: Accurate temperatures prevent undercooked or overly hard caramel.
• Warm Ingredients: Warm your cream and butter before adding to the hot sugar to avoid seizing.
• Work Quickly: Caramel hardens fast; assemble quickly while pliable.
• Seal Properly: Pinch edges tightly to avoid the cream filling oozing out.
• Storage Temperature: Keep caramels at cool room temperature to avoid melting or stickiness.

How to Serve Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel

Garnishes

Sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt or dust lightly with powdered sugar for visual appeal and flavor contrast. You can also drizzle with melted dark chocolate for an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

Pair these caramels with a rich cup of dark roast coffee or a smooth glass of dessert wine to balance their sweetness and enhance the vanilla notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in decorative candy boxes as gifts or arrange on tiered platters at dessert parties. Wrapping in colorful wax papers or tying bundles with rustic twine adds charm and makes for perfect party favors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, ensuring they remain chewy and fresh.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze caramels wrapped individually in wax paper inside a sealed container. Thaw at room temperature before serving to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Avoid reheating as it affects texture, but if softened, let caramels sit at room temperature to regain chewiness rather than microwaving which can melt the filling.

FAQs

Can I use vanilla paste instead of vanilla extract?

Absolutely, vanilla paste provides intense vanilla flavor and adds beautiful flecks, perfect for enhancing your Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel.

What if my caramel crystallizes while cooking?

If crystallization occurs, gently add a small amount of water and melt the sugar again; then use light corn syrup in the recipe to help prevent this from happening.

How do I know when the caramel is ready?

Use a candy thermometer to check for the firm ball stage or test a small drop in cold water to see if it forms a firm but pliable ball.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

It’s best to use unsalted butter to control the exact salt content; however, if using salted, reduce or omit added salt to avoid an overly salty flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes! The step-by-step process is straightforward, and with patience, anyone can make perfect Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel at home.

Final Thoughts

Give this Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel recipe a try and experience the joy of homemade sweets that taste like a dream. It’s a warm, inviting treat that’s sure to delight your friends, family, and especially yourself. Once you master this, you’ll never want store-bought caramel again!

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