Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels

Indulge in these Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels for a delightful treat that combines rich caramel with silky vanilla cream. Perfect for any occasion, these homemade confections are sure to impress friends and family. With their smooth texture and sweet flavor, they stand out as a crowd-pleasing dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of caramel and vanilla creates a deliciously sweet experience.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these treats at home.
• Perfect for Gifting: Package them beautifully to share with loved ones or during holidays.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment by adding flavors or toppings to make them your own.
• Impressive Presentation: These caramels look stunning when cut into squares, making them perfect for parties.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure the cooking process goes smoothly and your candies turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan
• Candy thermometer
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (or whisk)
• Baking pan (8×8 inch)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan: Provides even heat distribution, preventing burning while cooking the caramel.
• Candy thermometer: Ensures accurate temperature readings for perfect caramel consistency.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when whipping the vanilla cream to stiff peaks.

Ingredients

Indulge in these Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels. A perfect blend of rich caramel and silky vanilla cream.

For the Caramel Layer

• 200g / 1 cup granulated sugar
• 120ml / ½ cup heavy cream
• 60g / ¼ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 60ml / ¼ cup light corn syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp sea salt

For the Vanilla Cream Filling

• 120ml / ½ cup heavy cream
• 50g / ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 1 tsp vanilla bean paste)

How to Make Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Mixture

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, and butter. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves.

Step 2: Cook the Caramel

Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture. Cook without stirring until it reaches 245°F (118°C).

Step 3: Add Flavor

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and sea salt.

Step 4: Whip the Vanilla Cream Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla bean seeds. Beat until stiff peaks form—be careful not to overbeat.

Step 5: Line Your Pan

Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 6: Pour the First Layer of Caramel

Pour half of the hot caramel mixture into the lined pan. Spread it evenly and let it cool for about 15 minutes until slightly firm.

Step 7: Add Vanilla Cream Filling

Spread the whipped vanilla cream filling evenly over the cooled caramel layer.

Step 8: Top with Remaining Caramel

Pour the remaining caramel over the cream layer. Spread it evenly to cover.

Step 9: Chill to Set

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set.

Step 10: Cut into Squares

Lift the caramels out using the parchment paper edges and cut them into squares for serving. Enjoy your Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels!

How to Serve Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels

These delightful Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or treat yourself, here are some fantastic serving suggestions.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Enjoy these caramels alongside a warm cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the caramels on a decorative platter with fresh fruits and nuts for an elegant dessert display.

Gift Wrapping

• Individually wrap each caramel in colorful cellophane and give them as sweet gifts for holidays or special occasions.

Ice Cream Topping

• Chop the caramels into smaller pieces and use them as a delicious topping on your favorite ice cream flavor.

Pairing with Tea

• Serve the caramels with a soothing herbal tea for a comforting snack time experience.

How to Perfect Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels

Creating the perfect batch of Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your caramels turn out just right.

• Use a Candy Thermometer: This tool is essential for achieving the precise temperature needed for the caramel to set perfectly.

• Stir Gently: When cooking the caramel, stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Avoid stirring once it starts boiling to prevent crystallization.

• Cool Gradually: Allow the first layer of caramel to cool before adding the vanilla cream filling. This helps maintain distinct layers.

• Beat Carefully: When mixing the heavy cream for the filling, beat until stiff peaks form but avoid overbeating, which can lead to a grainy texture.

• Store Properly: Keep your finished caramels in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels

While these caramels are delightful on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the caramels.

2. Cheese Plate: Include mild cheeses like brie or mascarpone that balance well with the rich flavors of the caramels.

3. Nuts Variety: Roasted almonds or pecans provide a satisfying crunch that complements the soft texture of caramels.

4. Chocolate Fondue: Serve with melted dark chocolate for dipping; it creates an indulgent treat when paired with caramels.

5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits, then top with chopped caramels for an exciting and creamy dessert option.

6. Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Enhance your serving by drizzling extra caramel sauce over ice cream or pancakes alongside the main treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Ignoring the candy thermometer: Not using a candy thermometer can lead to improperly cooked caramel. Always monitor the temperature closely to achieve the ideal consistency.
• Overcooking the cream filling: Be cautious not to overbeat the cream mixture. Stop beating when stiff peaks form for a light and fluffy filling.
• Skipping the cooling time: Rushing the cooling process can result in a gooey texture. Allow the caramel to firm up slightly before adding the cream layer.
• Not lining the pan: Forgetting to line your baking pan with parchment paper can make it difficult to remove the caramels later. Always line your pan for easy lifting.
• Using old ingredients: Using stale or expired ingredients, like sugar or cream, affects flavor and texture. Ensure all ingredients are fresh for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Keep away from strong odors as caramels can absorb them.

Freezing Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels

• Freeze cut squares in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels

• Oven: Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C) and warm caramels on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until just warm. Be careful not to melt completely.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

How do I know when my caramel is ready?

The perfect caramel reaches 245°F (118°C) on your candy thermometer. This temperature ensures it has the right chewy consistency.

Can I substitute other flavors instead of vanilla?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different extracts like almond or hazelnut for unique flavor twists while keeping the same basic recipe.

Is there a vegan version of Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels?

Yes! You can replace heavy cream with coconut cream and butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a plant-based alternative.

What should I do if my caramel is too hard?

If your caramel turns out too hard, you can reheat it gently with a little bit of cream or water until it softens back up.

Final Thoughts

Heavenly Vanilla Cream Filled Caramels are a delightful treat that combines rich caramel with smooth vanilla cream. This recipe is versatile and allows for customization by experimenting with different flavors or fillings. Try making these caramels today and impress your friends and family!