Homemade Milk Chocolate and Creamy Caramel Candy Bar Recipe: Better Than The Original With Half The Sugar

Category: candy

Introduction

The Caramello bar, produced by Cadbury, has been a beloved treat since its introduction in the 1960s. Known for its smooth, creamy caramel covered in rich milk chocolate, it's a classic that many adore. However, store-bought versions often contain high amounts of sugar and preservatives. Making it at home allows for a healthier twist, using natural ingredients and less sugar, while still capturing that iconic taste.

I remember my first time making caramel from scratch—it was a revelation. The process was meditative, and the result was far superior to anything store-bought. Creating a homemade Caramello bar became a fun project, experimenting until it matched the original's creamy and chocolatey goodness. This recipe is the culmination of that journey, offering a delicious and healthier alternative.

Why Make It at Home?

Crafting your own Caramello bars provides several advantages. You can reduce sugar content, use higher-quality chocolate, and customize the caramel to your liking. It's also cost-effective and allows for creative variations, such as adding different flavor extracts or using dairy-free alternatives. Plus, homemade treats make thoughtful gifts.

Personal Anecdote

My love affair with Caramello bars began as a child, savoring each bite's perfect balance of caramel and chocolate. Years later, when I started experimenting with homemade candies, recreating the Caramello was a must. Through trials and errors, I perfected the recipe, and friends and family raved about the result. It's now a staple in my holiday gift baskets.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:25 minutes
• **Total Time:45 minutes
• **Yield:12-16 bars

Ingredients

Caramel Filling:

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (240 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar
• 2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp sea salt

Chocolate Coating:

• 2 cups (250 g) milk chocolate chips or chopped milk chocolate
• 1 tbsp (15 g) coconut oil or shortening (optional)

Instructions

• Prepare the Caramel:

• Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper.

  • In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, butter, vanilla, and salt.
  • Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
  • Pour into the prepared pan and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for 2 hours.

• Melt the Chocolate:

• Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.

  • Stir in coconut oil for a smoother coating.

• Assemble the Bars:

• Cut the caramel into desired bar sizes.

  • Dip each caramel piece into melted chocolate, coating all sides.
  • Place on parchment-lined baking sheets and refrigerate until set, about 30 minutes.

Variations

• Dietary Restrictions:

• Vegan: Use dairy-free milk and chocolate.

  • Low-Sugar: Replace brown sugar with a sugar substitute and use unsweetened condensed milk.
  • Flavor Twists: Add a pinch of flaky sea salt or a teaspoon of espresso powder to the caramel.

Pro Tips

• Temperature Control: Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the correct consistency.
• Smooth Coating: Tap off excess chocolate by gently tapping the fork or dipping tool against the side of the bowl.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I Use Fresh Milk Instead of Heavy Cream?

  • While possible, heavy cream is recommended for the richest caramel texture.

• What If I Don't Have a Candy Thermometer?

  • Test by dropping a small amount of caramel into cold water; it should form a soft ball that flattens when removed.

• How Do I Prevent the Chocolate from Blooming?

  • Store bars in a cool, dry place and avoid temperature fluctuations.

• Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?

  • Yes, by using dairy-free alternatives for milk and chocolate.

• Why Is My Caramel Too Hard?

  • Overcooking can cause this; aim for the correct temperature and avoid over-stirring.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a sweet snack or dessert.
• Chop into pieces for ice cream toppings or cake decorations.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a indulgent treat.

Conclusion

This homemade Caramello bar recipe offers a delicious, healthier alternative to the store-bought version. With customizable options and simple steps, you can create a treat that's both nostalgic and innovative. Share your creations and enjoy the joy of homemade candy-making!