If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the rich creaminess of caramel with the vibrant, natural sweetness of fruit, this Fruit Caramels Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with deep fruity flavors and luscious buttery notes, these caramels offer a perfect balance of softness and chewiness that’ll have you savoring each bite. Whether you’re gifting them to friends or simply indulging yourself, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a spectacular homemade candy that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly unique.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of making Fruit Caramels is how straightforward the ingredient list is, yet every element plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect texture and sensational flavor. From the fresh fruit puree bringing luscious color and tang, to the butter and heavy cream creating that silky smooth caramel base, each ingredient shines in its own special way.
- 1 cup fruit puree: This adds your choice of fruity brightness and natural sweetness, making each bite burst with real fruit flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Essential for caramelization and sweetness, this gives the caramel its classic, rich bite.
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup: Helps prevent crystallization while keeping the caramel smooth and chewy.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Provides creaminess and body, balancing the fruit’s fresh tartness with velvety richness.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a decadent, buttery depth and a glossy finish to your caramels.
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances sweetness and brings out all the layered flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Introduces a fragrant warmth, harmonizing with the fruit and caramel notes.
How to Make Fruit Caramels Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Lightly butter the parchment to prevent sticking and set it aside while you prepare the caramel mixture. This step ensures your fruit caramels will come out clean and perfect squares every time.
Step 2: Combine and Dissolve Ingredients
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the fruit puree, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and heavy cream. Stir constantly over medium heat until the sugar has completely dissolved, which is key for a smooth caramel without graininess. Patience here means silky, luscious caramels down the line.
Step 3: Cook to the Right Temperature
Attach a candy thermometer to the side of your saucepan to monitor the mixture carefully. Let it boil undisturbed until it reaches 240°F, known as the soft-ball stage. This takes approximately 15–20 minutes. Hitting this precise temperature ensures that your Fruit Caramels Recipe will have the ideal chewy, tender texture everyone loves.
Step 4: Finish with Flavors and Butter
Remove your saucepan from the heat, then stir in the unsalted butter, sea salt, and vanilla extract until everything is perfectly smooth and combined. This step adds richness, a touch of saltiness to balance sweetness, and a lovely aromatic layer to the caramels.
Step 5: Pour and Set
Pour the hot caramel mixture into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Let it cool completely at room temperature, which will take at least four hours or ideally overnight. This slow cooling allows the caramels to firm up just right before cutting.
Step 6: Slice and Wrap
Once your fruit caramel slab is set and firm, gently lift it out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Use a buttered knife to slice it into 36 adorable squares. For best results and freshness, wrap each piece individually in wax paper. Now you have beautifully portioned, homemade fruit caramels ready to enjoy or gift.
How to Serve Fruit Caramels Recipe
Garnishes
These fruit caramels are delicious as-is, but why not take things up a notch? Sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top for a sparkling finish that highlights the sweet and salty magic. You can also elegantly dust them with a fine coating of powdered sugar or roll the edges in finely chopped nuts for a textural contrast that’s simply irresistible.
Side Dishes
Serving fruit caramels alongside a cozy cup of coffee or herbal tea elevates the experience, making each bite even more pleasurable. They also pair superbly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between warm creamy desserts and the chewy caramel is downright heavenly.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by arranging your fruit caramels in a beautiful gift box lined with tissue paper and tied with a ribbon — they make fantastic homemade presents! For parties, place them on a tiered serving tray alongside other sweets for an eye-catching candy spread. You could even place a few pieces in small, clear glass jars for a chic, edible favor guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Fruit caramels keep beautifully at room temperature when wrapped well. Store them in an airtight container layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Properly stored, they will stay fresh and chewy for up to two weeks — perfect for making in advance for a special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Freezing
If you want to keep your caramels longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each caramel tightly in wax paper, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months, and will thaw at room temperature beautifully without losing their texture or flavor.
Reheating
While typically enjoyed at room temperature, if your caramels become too firm, you can gently warm them by leaving them out for 20 minutes to soften. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause uneven melting and affect texture. Softened fruit caramels melt on the tongue delightfully and release those luscious fruity notes.
FAQs
Can I use any type of fruit puree for this Fruit Caramels Recipe?
Absolutely! You can choose your favorite fruit puree — whether it’s strawberry, raspberry, mango, or even a mixed berry blend. Just make sure the puree is smooth, strained if needed, to prevent any bits from affecting the texture of your caramels.
What is the soft-ball stage and why is it important?
The soft-ball stage refers to heating the caramel mixture to about 240°F, where it forms a soft, flexible ball when dropped into cold water. It’s crucial because it ensures the caramels will be perfectly chewy, not too hard or runny.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something else?
Heavy cream is best for its richness and consistency, but if you need a substitute, full-fat coconut milk can work for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different, adding a hint of coconut.
How do I prevent the caramels from sticking together?
Wrapping each caramel individually in wax paper is the best way to stop them from sticking. Also, storing them in an airtight container helps maintain their texture and prevents them from becoming overly sticky.
Is it necessary to use a candy thermometer?
While you can try to judge the caramel’s readiness by feel, a candy thermometer guarantees precision and gives you confidence in the texture every time. It’s a worthwhile tool for making perfect fruit caramels easily.
Final Thoughts
This Fruit Caramels Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a homemade touch to your sweet treats, combining luscious fruit flavor with rich, buttery caramel goodness. With easy ingredients and simple steps, you can create charming caramels that feel both luxurious and comforting. I promise, once you try them, they’ll become a beloved favorite to make again and again. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 36 pieces
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these smooth and chewy Fruit Caramels made with luscious fruit puree, rich cream, and buttery sweetness. Perfectly balanced with a touch of sea salt and vanilla, these homemade caramels are a decadent treat that melt in your mouth and offer a fruity twist on classic caramel candies.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup fruit puree
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal of the caramel. Lightly butter the parchment paper to prevent sticking and set the pan aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the fruit puree, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and heavy cream. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar fully dissolves, ensuring a smooth base for the caramel.
- Boil Mixture: Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan. Allow the mixture to boil undisturbed, without stirring, until it reaches 240°F (the soft-ball stage), which will take approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This precise temperature ensures the perfect chewy texture.
- Add Final Ingredients: Remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately stir in the unsalted butter, sea salt, and vanilla extract until the caramel becomes smooth and all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Set Caramel: Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Let it cool completely at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until it is fully set and firm to the touch.
- Cut and Wrap: Once the caramel is set, lift the slab out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Using a buttered knife to prevent sticking, slice the caramel into 36 equal squares. Wrap each piece individually in wax paper to maintain freshness and prevent sticking.
Notes
- Ensure use of a candy thermometer for accurate temperature to get perfect caramel texture.
- Lightly buttering the parchment paper helps prevent the caramel from sticking.
- Use fresh fruit purees for the best flavor—berries, mango, or peach work well.
- If you do not have light corn syrup, you can substitute with homemade glucose syrup or a mild-flavored honey, but it may slightly alter texture.
- Store wrapped caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
