Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel
Discover the rich, smooth taste of Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel that melts in your mouth—an irresistible treat for every sweet lover. This luscious confection perfectly balances the buttery, chewy caramel exterior with a creamy vanilla center that adds an unexpected touch of luxury to a classic favorite. Whether you’re indulging after a long day or sharing with friends, Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel is a delightful dessert experience you won’t forget.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unforgettable flavor combo: The creamy vanilla center complements the rich caramel wrapper for a perfect harmony of tastes.
- Silky smooth texture: Every bite melts effortlessly, combining softness and chewiness that feels like pure bliss.
- Simple ingredients, big impact: Made with straightforward, high-quality ingredients that highlight natural flavors.
- Great for sharing: Perfect for gifting or serving at parties, thanks to its luxurious appearance and taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel plays a crucial role in crafting a luscious, rich treat. Simplicity is key here, and the right balance will help achieve the ideal texture, flavor, and color that make this recipe shine.
- Granulated sugar: Provides the sweet base and caramelizes to create that beautiful golden color.
- Heavy cream: Adds the signature creamy texture both in the caramel and the vanilla filling.
- Unsalted butter: Brings richness and smoothness, preventing the caramel from becoming too stiff.
- Pure vanilla extract: Infuses the cream filling with its warm, fragrant vanilla flavor.
- Light corn syrup: Helps to control crystallization, keeping the caramel soft and chewy.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and brightens the overall flavor.
Variations for Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel
Customizing your Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel is easier than you think. Whether you want to accommodate dietary needs or simply prefer a different twist, adapting this recipe can be both fun and rewarding without losing any of its magic.

- Salted caramel version: Sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt on top for added flavor contrast.
- Chocolate-infused cream: Add melted dark chocolate into the vanilla filling for a decadent twist.
- Dairy-free alternative: Swap heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and plant-based margarine.
- Spiced caramel: Incorporate cinnamon or cardamom into the caramel for a warm, aromatic note.
- Nutty surprise: Fold finely chopped toasted pecans or almonds into the filling for added crunch.
How to Make Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel
Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Cream Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream and pure vanilla extract, then gently heat until warm, stirring occasionally. This warmth will help create a smooth, silky texture when incorporated into the caramel.
Step 2: Cook the Caramel Base
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt granulated sugar with light corn syrup over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves and turns a deep amber. This caramelization is what builds that signature rich flavor.
Step 3: Add Butter and Heavy Cream
Remove the caramel from heat, then quickly but carefully whisk in unsalted butter and warmed heavy cream with vanilla. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so take care. Stir until everything is fully blended and smooth.
Step 4: Incorporate the Vanilla Cream Filling
Once the caramel base is slightly cooled but still fluid, fold in the vanilla cream mixture gradually. This step creates the luscious creamy center that makes the Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel so addictive.
Step 5: Set and Cut
Pour the mixture into a lined baking dish and allow it to cool completely at room temperature or refrigerated until firm. Once set, cut into bite-sized squares or shapes, ready to enjoy or gift.
Pro Tips for Making Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel
- Use a candy thermometer: Achieve perfect caramel consistency by cooking to around 245°F (118°C).
- Warm your cream: Adding warm cream prevents the caramel from seizing up when mixing.
- Work quickly: Caramel thickens fast once off the heat, so mix swiftly.
- Prevent crystallization: Use corn syrup or add an acid like lemon juice during sugar melting.
- Use high-quality vanilla: Real vanilla extract makes a noticeable difference in flavor depth.
How to Serve Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of crushed nuts can add aroma and texture, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
Side Dishes
Pair with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweet richness of the caramel.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual pieces in wax paper or place them in small decorative boxes for elegant gifting, or serve on a rustic wooden board to impress guests at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel in an airtight container at room temperature, protected from heat and moisture, where it will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a sealed container; thaw at room temperature before serving to maintain texture.
Reheating
If you prefer softer caramel, warm gently in the microwave for a few seconds, but be cautious not to overheat and melt the filling completely.
FAQs
Can I use flavored vanilla extract for the filling?
Yes, variations like bourbon vanilla or Madagascar vanilla extract can add unique depth to the cream filling, enriching the overall flavor.
What if my caramel becomes grainy?
Graininess usually indicates sugar crystallization; reheating with a little water and stirring can help smooth it out, but incorporating corn syrup initially helps prevent this.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute dairy with coconut cream and vegan butter alternatives, keeping in mind the texture and flavor will slightly differ.
How long does Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, it will keep fresh for about two weeks at room temperature and up to three months if frozen.
Can I add other flavors to the cream filling?
Yes, infusing the cream with coffee, citrus zest, or spices before mixing creates delicious variations to suit your taste buds.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a sweet treat that combines classic caramel with a silky, vanilla-infused surprise inside, Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel is your new best friend. Simple to make yet impressive in taste and texture, it’s perfect for indulging yourself or delighting others. Give it a try and savor every melt-in-your-mouth moment!
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Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel
Vanilla Cream Filled Caramel is a luscious confection featuring a smooth, creamy vanilla center encased in a rich, chewy caramel exterior. This treat offers a perfect balance of buttery caramel flavor and silky vanilla cream, delivering a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience ideal for sharing, gifting, or satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: About 36 small caramel pieces 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Caramel Base Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Vanilla Cream Filling
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Vanilla Cream Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup heavy cream with 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Gently heat this mixture until it is warm, stirring occasionally to ensure a smooth, silky texture that will blend well into the caramel.
- Cook the Caramel Base: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 1 cup granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons light corn syrup over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture turns a deep amber color, indicating perfect caramelization for rich flavor.
- Add Butter and Heavy Cream: Remove the caramel from heat and quickly whisk in 1/2 cup unsalted butter and the warmed heavy cream with vanilla. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble vigorously. Stir continuously until fully blended and smooth.
- Incorporate the Vanilla Cream Filling: Once the caramel base has cooled slightly but remains fluid, gradually fold in the warmed vanilla cream mixture. This step creates the creamy vanilla center within the caramel.
- Set and Cut: Pour the entire mixture into a lined baking dish and allow it to cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate until firm. Once set, cut into bite-sized squares or desired shapes, ready to enjoy or package for gifting.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to cook the caramel to approximately 245°F (118°C) for ideal consistency.
- Warm cream before adding to prevent caramel from seizing.
- Work quickly once off heat, as caramel thickens rapidly.
- Incorporate light corn syrup to prevent sugar crystallization.
- Use high-quality pure vanilla extract for the best flavor depth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (about 15g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0.3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: vanilla cream caramel, creamy caramel, homemade caramel, filled caramel candies, sweet treat, chewy caramel, dessert, gift candies
