Hey y'all! If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s luscious, buttery, and melts in your mouth, this Easy Microwave Caramels with 4 Ingredients recipe is your new go-to. It’s the ultimate last-minute dessert—perfect for gifting, potlucks, holidays, or a quick family treat. With just a bowl and your microwave, you’ll create soft, chewy caramels in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Easy Microwave Caramels with 4 Ingredients Recipe
- Ridiculously simple: Just four pantry staples and five minutes of prep.
- No candy thermometer needed: The microwave takes out all the guesswork!
- Perfect for gifting: Wrap these golden caramels for birthdays, holidays, or party favors.
- Incredibly creamy texture: Each bite is soft, chewy, and buttery.
- Ready in minutes: From start to finish, you’ll have homemade caramels in under 15 minutes!
Ingredients for Easy Microwave Caramels with 4 Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
How to Make Easy Microwave Caramels with 4 Ingredients
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter, light corn syrup, granulated sugar, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir well until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Microwave the Caramel Mixture
Microwave uncovered on high for 6 minutes, stopping to stir every 2 minutes. The mixture will bubble and thicken. Careful—it's hot!
Step 4: Check and Pour
The caramel should be golden and slightly thickened. To test, drop a small spoonful in a cup of cold water; it should form a soft ball. If needed, microwave for 1 more minute.
Pour the hot caramel into your prepared pan, spreading evenly. Let cool at room temperature for about 2 hours or refrigerate for 1 hour until set.
Step 5: Cut and Enjoy
Lift the caramel slab from the pan using the parchment. Cut into bite-sized squares with a sharp knife. For easy wrapping, use wax paper squares.
Notes for Perfect Easy Microwave Caramels with 4 Ingredients
- Use a parchment-lined pan for effortless removal and clean-up.
- Microwave power can vary. If your caramels seem too soft, add an extra 30 seconds, stirring well.
- For richer flavor, try browning the butter before combining, as suggested by Serious Eats.
Variations on Easy Microwave Caramels with 4 Ingredients
- Sea Salt Caramels: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top before the caramels set.
- Chocolate-Dipped: Once cut, dip the caramels in melted chocolate and let set on parchment.
- Nutty Caramels: Stir in ½ cup chopped toasted pecans or almonds before pouring into the pan.
Required Equipment for Easy Microwave Caramels with 4 Ingredients
- Large microwave-safe bowl (preferably glass)
- Silicone spatula or wooden spoon
- 8x8-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife
Storage Instructions for Easy Microwave Caramels with 4 Ingredients
Store caramels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. Separate layers with wax paper to prevent sticking. For longer storage, wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Easy Microwave Caramels with 4 Ingredients
- Enjoy with a cup of black coffee or hot chocolate for an afternoon treat.
- Pair with crisp apple slices on a dessert platter.
- Chop and sprinkle over vanilla ice cream for an indulgent sundae.
Pro Tips for Easy Microwave Caramels with 4 Ingredients
- Use a large bowl to prevent the caramel from bubbling over.
- Cut while slightly chilled for clean, even squares.
- Wrap caramels individually in wax paper to keep them fresh and prevent sticking.
FAQ: Easy Microwave Caramels with 4 Ingredients
- Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?
- Yes, but the caramels will have a deeper, more robust flavor and darker color.
- How do I know if my caramels are done?
- The mixture should form a soft ball when dropped in cold water, and be golden and thickened—add extra microwave time in 30-second bursts if needed.
- Can I double this recipe?
- Absolutely! Use a larger bowl and microwave for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes plus cooling
Yield: About 36 caramels
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt (plus more for sprinkling, optional)
Instructions
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1Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
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2In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine unsalted butter, light corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until well mixed.
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3Microwave the mixture on high for 2 minutes. Carefully remove and stir. Repeat microwaving in 2-minute intervals, stirring after each, for a total of 6-8 minutes or until the mixture reaches a caramel color and thickens.
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4Stir in vanilla extract and sea salt. Pour the hot caramel into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
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5Let the caramels cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour. Once set, lift out of the pan, cut into squares, and sprinkle with additional sea salt if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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