Apple Cider Caramels

Ingredients

• 4 cup apple cider (fresh, not vacuum-sealed apple juice)
• 1 tsp cinnamon (ground)
• 0.5 tsp sea salt (plus more for topping)
• 8 tbsp unsalted butter (1 stick, cut into chunks)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 0.5 cup light brown sugar
• 0.333 cup heavy cream

Steps

1. 1

   Boil the apple cider in a large, wide pot over high heat until it is reduced to between 1/3 and 1/2 cup. This usually takes about 40 to 50 minutes.

2. 2

   While the cider reduces, prepare an 8-inch square baking pan by lining the bottom and sides with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment with butter or non-stick spray.

3. 3

   Once the cider is reduced, remove it from the heat and stir in the cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt.

4. 4

   Add the butter chunks, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and heavy cream to the pot with the cider reduction.

5. 5

   Return the pot to medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature.

6. 6

   Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching, until it reaches 250°F (121°C). This is the 'hard ball' stage for caramel.

7. 7

   Immediately remove the pot from the heat and pour the caramel into the prepared baking pan.

8. 8

   Let the caramel sit for about 20 minutes, then sprinkle the top with additional sea salt to taste.

9. 9

   Allow the caramels to cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator until firm, at least 2 hours.

10. 10

    Once firm, lift the parchment paper out of the pan. Use a sharp, lightly oiled knife to cut the caramel into 1-inch squares.

11. 11

    Wrap individual squares in wax paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Notes

Using fresh apple cider is crucial for the best flavor; vacuum-sealed apple juice lacks the necessary tartness. If the caramel is too hard to cut after being in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften. For a softer caramel, cook to 245°F; for a firmer one, go to 252°F.

Nutrition per serving

• dessert
• candy
• apple cider
• fall
• vegetarian
• gluten-free
• snack