Are you a sweet tooth looking for new and exciting ways to indulge your cravings? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 18 decadent caramel recipes that are sure to satisfy even the most intense sweet tooths. From classic desserts like cheesecake bars and pecan pie blondies to creative twists on old favorites like brown butter popcorn and toasted marshmallow dip, there’s something for everyone in this list.
We’ll start with a show-stopper: our Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart, which combines rich chocolate and caramel with a touch of salt for a truly indulgent treat. And that’s just the beginning – over the next few pages, we’ll be counting down our favorite caramel recipes to bring you the sweetest treats imaginable.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart
Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart Recipe
A rich and decadent dessert combining the smoothness of caramel with the boldness of chocolate, all wrapped up in a buttery pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp sea salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture reaches 350°F (175°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt and butter until dissolved. Let cool slightly.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
5. Pour cooled caramel mixture over pastry, followed by melted chocolate. Smooth top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vanilla Bean Caramel Sauce
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy vanilla bean caramel sauce, perfect for topping ice cream, cakes, or fresh fruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla powder)
– Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
1. Combine heavy cream, sugar, and butter in a medium saucepan.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste (or powder), and sea salt.
5. Let the sauce cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container.
6. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Brown Butter Caramel Popcorn
Transform plain popcorn into a decadent treat with this simple recipe that combines the nutty flavor of brown butter with the sweetness of caramel. Perfect for movie nights or as a snack to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Pop the popcorn kernels and place in a large bowl.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma.
3. Add the corn syrup, sugar, and vanilla extract to the melted butter. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
4. Pour the caramel mixture over the popcorn and sprinkle with salt. Toss until the kernels are evenly coated.
5. Spread the popcorn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat!
These sweet and savory treats combine the warmth of cinnamon with the crunch of caramelized apples, all wrapped up in a soft and fluffy dough. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons butter, melted
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add melted butter, flour, cinnamon, and salt to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
5. Spread caramel sauce over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Arrange apple slices on top of the caramel sauce.
7. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one long edge.
8. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake at 375°F for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Enjoy your delicious Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls!
Salted Caramel Cheesecake Bars
These rich and creamy cheesecake bars are elevated by a layer of gooey salted caramel, making them the perfect indulgence for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup flaky sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Drizzle with salted caramel sauce.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Espresso Caramel Truffles
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized treats that combine the deep flavors of espresso and caramel. Perfect for coffee lovers and anyone looking to add a touch of sophistication to their sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream and confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Add softened butter, espresso powder, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Fold in caramel sauce until well incorporated.
4. Cover mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Melt dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl; cool slightly.
6. Roll chilled truffle mixture into balls, then coat each in melted chocolate.
7. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until set (about 1 hour).
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld, plus refrigeration time.
Coconut Caramel Fudge
Rich and creamy fudge infused with the sweetness of coconut and caramel – a perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 12 ounces white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
5. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Spread melted white chocolate over the cooled fudge layer.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramel Pecan Pie Blondies
These blondies combine the classic flavors of caramel and pecans with a buttery, golden crust. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup caramel bits (such as Kraft Caramello)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the crust.
5. Melt caramel bits in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Drizzle melted caramel over the pecans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Caramel Latte
Warm up with this autumnal twist on a classic latte, combining the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spice with rich caramel.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy alternative)
– 1 tablespoon canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1-2 tablespoons caramel syrup (depending on desired sweetness)
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the espresso or coffee according to your preference.
2. In a large mug, combine the milk, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the espresso shots to the mug and whisk gently.
4. Add 1-2 tablespoons of caramel syrup, depending on desired sweetness.
5. Taste and adjust as needed.
6. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just whisk and serve!)
Caramelized Banana Bread Pudding
Take your bread pudding game to the next level with this rich and indulgent dessert featuring caramelized bananas and a hint of warm spices. Perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 loaf day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, caramelize bananas with sugar and spices over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, cream, and melted butter.
4. Add bread cubes to the wet ingredients and toss until coated.
5. Fold in caramelized banana mixture.
6. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sea Salt Caramel Ice Cream
Elevate your ice cream game with this creamy, sweet, and salty treat that combines the richness of caramel and the crunch of sea salt. This recipe is perfect for those who love the combination of textures and flavors in their dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until it reaches 170°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in caramel sauce and sea salt until combined.
4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once churned, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (churning time will vary depending on machine)
Whiskey Caramel Glazed Donuts
Treat your taste buds to the perfect combination of sweet and savory with these Whiskey Caramel Glazed Donuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Whiskey caramel glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add milk, egg, and melted butter; mix until smooth batter forms.
4. Let the dough rise for about an hour or until doubled in size.
5. Fry donuts in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Allow donuts to cool before glazing with Whiskey Caramel Glaze.
Whiskey Caramel Glaze:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons whiskey (such as bourbon or scotch)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Combine glaze ingredients in a saucepan; whisk until smooth. Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including rising time)
Caramel Pear Galette
This sweet and elegant dessert combines the natural sweetness of pears with the rich flavor of caramel, all wrapped up in a buttery galette crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing crust)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Arrange pear slices in a spiral pattern, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle granulated sugar over the pears and dot with butter.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the pears.
6. Fold the pastry edges up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush egg wash over the crust.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Dark Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bark
Transform pretzels, chocolate, and caramel into a show-stopping treat with this easy recipe. Perfect for snack time or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
• 1/2 cup pretzel rods, broken into pieces
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Spread the melted chocolate on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Sprinkle pretzel pieces over the chocolate.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the pretzels, followed by sprinkling with sea salt.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate and caramel.
7. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking involved)
Honey Caramel Roasted Nuts
Transform plain nuts into a deliciously sweet and savory snack with this easy recipe. This honey caramel roasted nut recipe is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, and sea salt until well combined.
3. Add the mixed nuts to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the honey mixture.
4. Spread the nut mixture on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 10-12 minutes or until the nuts are caramelized and fragrant, stirring every 5 minutes.
6. Remove from oven and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramel Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies
Take your favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe to the next level with this indulgent twist – gooey caramel centers that will satisfy any sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Caramel filling (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, followed by chocolate chips.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Place a small dollop of caramel filling in the center of each ball. Fold dough over filling to form a ball and flatten slightly.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Toasted Marshmallow Caramel Dip
Experience the sweet and gooey delight of toasted marshmallows infused into a rich caramel dip, perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Place the marshmallows on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and toast for 30-45 seconds, or until lightly browned.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the caramel reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the toasted marshmallows, butter, and salt until smooth.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Toasted Marshmallow Caramel Dip!
Lavender Infused Caramel Bonbons
Elevate your bonbon-making skills with this unique recipe that combines the soothing flavors of lavender and caramel. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a special occasion or as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 cup (60g) dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, heavy cream, and softened butter in a medium saucepan.
2. Add dried lavender buds and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes.
4. Strain the caramel mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Discard lavender buds.
5. Whisk in sea salt and confectioners’ sugar until dissolved.
6. Pour into a piping bag fitted with a small round tip. Pipe onto parchment-lined baking sheets in desired shapes.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Dip each bonbon in melted dark chocolate chips.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (steeping time included)
Summary
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these 18 decadent caramel recipes! From classic treats like salted caramel cheesecake bars and caramel apple cinnamon rolls to unique desserts like espresso caramel truffles and whiskey caramel glazed donuts, there’s something for every caramel lover. Indulge in gooey caramel sauces, crunchy caramel popcorn, or rich caramel ice cream. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and salty or classic and creamy, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
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