Homemade Hershey Simple Pleasures Smooth Creamy Milk Chocolate with Creamy Caramel Recipe: A Creamy, Dreamy DIY Delight

Category: Candy

Introduction

Hershey's Simple Pleasures are beloved for their smooth milk chocolate and rich caramel centers, offering a delightful treat that's both creamy and indulgent. However, making them at home allows for healthier ingredients, customization, and cost savings. This recipe captures the essence of the original while offering a personal touch. I was inspired to recreate this candy after realizing how much added sugar goes into store-bought versions. By using natural sweeteners and quality ingredients, I crafted a version that's just as delicious but better for you.

Why Make It at Home?

Making candy at home allows for healthier choices, customization, and often costs less. You can control the sugar content, use organic ingredients, and experiment with flavors, making each piece unique to your taste preferences.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the first time I tasted Hershey's Simple Pleasures—the combination of creamy chocolate and caramel was irresistible. But when I checked the ingredients, I was surprised by the sugar content. This motivated me to create a homemade version that retains the flavor but is healthier.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:30 minutes
• **Total Time:50 minutes
• **Yield:12-15 pieces

Ingredients

Chocolate Coating:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) milk chocolate chips (or chopped milk chocolate)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Caramel Filling:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar (or 1/2 cup honey/maple syrup)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream (or coconut cream)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter (or coconut oil)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

• Prepare the Caramel:

• In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.

  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until caramel reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
  • Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla. Let cool slightly.

• Set the Caramel:

• Pour caramel into a lined or greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Let cool and set at room temperature or chill in the fridge until firm, about 30 minutes.

• Cut Caramel:

• Once set, cut into 1-inch squares or desired shapes.

• Melt Chocolate:

• Melt chocolate and butter in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.

• Coat Caramels:

• Dip each caramel piece into melted chocolate, coating completely. Tap off excess by gently tapping the fork against the side of the bowl.

• Set Chocolate:

• Place coated caramels on parchment-lined tray. Let set in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.

Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate.
• Vegan: Replace honey with maple syrup and use vegan chocolate.
• Sea Salt: Sprinkle a pinch on top before chocolate sets.
• Flavor Twist: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder or orange zest to the caramel.

Special Equipment

• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
• Candy thermometer
• Fork or dipping tool
• Parchment-lined tray

Pro Tips

• Temper Chocolate: For a glossy finish, temper chocolate by heating to 115°F, cooling to 82°F, then reheating to 90°F before coating.
• Caramel Texture: Ensure caramel reaches 240°F for a smooth, creamy texture.
• Coating Evenly: Tap off excess chocolate gently to avoid thin spots.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use honey? Yes, but reduce amount as it's sweeter.
• Why is my caramel grainy? Sugar didn't dissolve properly; ensure it's fully dissolved before boiling.
• How long does it keep? Up to 2 weeks in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Can I scale the recipe? Yes, adjust ingredients proportionally.
• Is it vegan? With substitutions, yes.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a sweet treat or gift in decorative tins.
• Pair with fresh fruit or nuts for a dessert platter.

Conclusion

This recipe offers a healthier, customizable version of a beloved candy. With these steps, you can create delicious treats at home, perfect for snacking or gifting. Share your creations and enjoy the creamy, dreamy delight!