Step 1: Prepare the pan
- Line the baking dish: Start by preparing your 9×9-inch square baking dish. Line it with parchment paper or non-stick foil, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the caramel squares out once they’ve cooled and set. Lightly grease the lining with butter or cooking spray for an easy release.
Step 2: Make the caramel
- Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 cups of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir frequently to ensure the butter doesn’t burn.
- Add the sugar and liquids: Once the butter is melted, add the 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk, and 1/4 cup light corn syrup to the saucepan. Stir the mixture well to combine.
- Simmer and thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid scorching. Once it begins to simmer, lower the heat and continue stirring for about 5-7 minutes. The caramel should thicken slightly and begin to coat the back of the spoon.
- Add vanilla and salt: Remove the saucepan from the heat, then stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This adds flavor depth to your caramel and prevents it from being overly sweet.
Step 3: Make the base
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar. This creates the soft base for the caramel squares, which will be the foundation layer.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the caramel: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the caramel mixture, stirring to combine. The dough will start to come together into a soft, thick mixture.
Step 4: Bake the caramel squares
- Spread the mixture in the pan: Transfer the caramel dough into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to press the dough evenly into the pan, making sure it is flat and well-distributed.
- Bake the caramel layer: Place the pan into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. You can check for doneness by lightly pressing on the center — it should feel firm but still slightly soft. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Cool and cut
- Cool completely: After removing the pan from the oven, let the caramel squares cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. The caramel will firm up further as it cools.
- Cut the squares: Once cooled, use the parchment paper or foil overhang to lift the caramel slab out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into small squares or bars, depending on your preference.
- Serve or store: Your homemade caramel squares are now ready to be enjoyed! If you want to store them, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer them to last longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months if wrapped properly.
Tips for Perfect Caramel Squares:
- Be patient with the caramel: Making caramel can be tricky, but patience is key. Stir constantly and keep an eye on the temperature to prevent burning. The goal is to achieve a smooth, glossy texture.
- Test the firmness: If you’re unsure whether the caramel layer has set enough, lightly press your finger into the center. If it leaves an indentation but doesn’t feel overly soft, it’s ready to be removed from the oven.
- Optional toppings: For an extra special touch, sprinkle some sea salt over the top of the caramel before cutting for a salted caramel version. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled caramel for a chocolate-covered variation.
Conclusion:
Homemade caramel squares are a simple yet luxurious treat that everyone will adore. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can create these melt-in-your-mouth squares that are perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or enjoying with a cup of coffee. The combination of smooth, buttery caramel and a soft base makes these squares irresistible.
Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a holiday tradition or an anytime indulgence. Prepare to impress your friends and family with these homemade, mouthwatering caramel squares — they’ll disappear faster than you can make them!