Christmas Carmels

My grandma always makes carmels at Christmas. I love them because they are incredibly soft and buttery. Christmas is the best time for candies and all things sweet. These fall right into that category. Don't be intimidated by trying to make candy. It really is simple if you have a candy thermometer. You don't need to spend a lot of money to get one. Just grab one from your closest Walmart or Target and you are ready to go. You must have a candy thermometer (not a meat thermometer) because candy can get away from you if you are not watching it.

My sister-in-law gave me this recipe a short time ago and they turned out just like my grandma's carmels. I couldn't be happier with them.

2 cubes butter

2 cups sugar

2 cups corn syrup

2 cups heavy cream, divided

1/4 tsp salt 

1 tsp vanilla

In a large, heavy pot over medium-low heat combine butter, sugar, corn syrup, salt, and 1 cup heavy cream. Gently stir until sugar dissolves (do not rush this process). When sugar has dissolved, place candy thermometer in pot and turn heat up to medium/medium high and cook until thermometer reaches 224, stirring occasionally. Add the last 1 cup heavy cream and continue cooking until thermometer reaches 234, stirring occasionally. Stir in vanilla. Pour caramel into well greased 9x13 pan. Cool caramels for 7 hours. Cut into squares (any size you like) and wrap in wax paper. Enjoy!

Happy Baking!