Homemade microwave caramels made in 6 minutes with only 5 ingredients! No candy thermometer needed. These will be the easiest candy you will make this holidays!
Line an 8×8″ pan with parchment paper. Run a stick of butter over the top to prevent the caramels from sticking. Set aside.
Melt the butter in a large 8-cup microwave-safe bowl. Add the sugar, corn syrup and sweetened condensed milk and stir until smooth. Place in the microwave and cook for six minutes, stirring half way in between.
To test if the caramel is ready, place a spoon into the caramel and then dip into a cup of cold ice water. If it resembles a soft ball (the texture you’d want your caramels to be), then it’s ready. If it’s still too soft, cook for an additional 30 seconds at a time. It should be about 240°F.
Remove bowl from microwave and stir in vanilla and a pinch of sea salt. Add pecans if desired. Pour caramel into prepared pan and allow to set. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired. You may place in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to cool them quicker.
Cut with a plastic knife and then wrap in wax paper to prevent the caramels from sticking. Enjoy! :)
Notes
Testing: Make sure to test your caramel with the ice water method mentioned above or a candy thermometer. It should reach about 240°F. Make sure to test every 30 seconds at the end to get the right temperature. Butter: I find that using unsalted butter is best so that it does not splatter while cooking. If you like your caramels salty, add in an extra pinch at the end.