Hands, down, caramel that’s homemade has a richness that store-bought versions just don’t have! Especially Martha’s version!
One tricky part is knowing when to pull it off the heat—too soon, and it lacks that deep golden color; too late, and it turns bitter.
I swirl the pan gently instead of stirring while the sugar melts, which helps it cook evenly without forming clumps.
A little vanilla at the end rounds out the taste, making it smooth and balanced. Ooh yeah!
Letting it sit for a few minutes before transferring it to a jar allows any bubbles to settle, giving it a glossy finish.
This recipe has just the right texture for drizzling, dipping, or spreading!
How to Make Martha Stewart Caramel
Ingredients
- 2 cups Sugar
- 4 cups Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 4 cups Light Corn Syrup
- 1 tsp Salt
- 2 sticks Unsalted Butter (cut into 16 pieces)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
In a medium saucepan, pour in the sugar and begin cooking it over medium heat.
Make sure to do this gently until it dissolves.
Step 2:
Add the corn syrup, heavy cream, condensed milk, and butter pieces gradually.
Keep stirring to combine all ingredients smoothly.
Step 3:
Continue heating the mixture.
Stir it occasionally so it reaches a golden-brown color.
This step is crucial for achieving the right flavor.
Step 4:
Once the caramel reaches your desire, pour it into a prepared, lightly oiled baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Ensure an even spread using a spatula.
Step 5:
Let it cool at room temperature before cutting into pieces.
This cooling allows for easier handling and cutting.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan
A heavy-bottomed pan distributes the heat evenly, preventing your caramel from burning.
I always suggest using this type of pan for consistent results.
Stir Constantly
Keep stirring during cooking to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth texture.
Missing this step may lead to uneven caramelization.
Temperature is Key
Monitor the temperature closely to avoid burning.
Caramel can go from perfect to burnt quickly, so be attentive.
Storage Solution
Store leftover caramel in an airtight container.
It helps keep it fresh and delicious for future use.
What to Serve with Martha Stewart Caramel
Fresh Berries
Pairing caramel with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries can provide a vibrant contrast to the sweet and creamy flavors.
The tartness and juiciness of the berries help to balance the richness of the caramel dessert quite well.
Salted Nuts
For a slightly savory twist, try serving salted nuts alongside your caramel dish.
The saltiness of the nuts complements the sweetness of caramel, offering a great mix of flavors and textures.
You might want to go with walnuts, almonds, or even pecans.
Vanilla Ice Cream
A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a cool and creamy element to your caramel creation.
The creamy texture of ice cream pairs perfectly with the smoothness of caramel for some real YUM..
Savory Popcorn
Surprisingly, savory popcorn makes an interesting accompaniment to sweet caramel.
Imagine mixing a little parmesan or cheddar-flavored popcorn for a movie night treat with this classic dessert.
Grilled Peaches
For a unique fruit option, consider serving grilled peaches with caramel.
The grilled fruit adds a hint of smokiness and enhances the natural sweetness, which meshes beautifully with the caramel sauce.
Spiced Shortbread Cookies
Another creative serving option is to add a few spiced shortbread cookies on the side.
These cookies offer a crumbly texture and a mild spice that can pair nicely with the creamy sweetness of caramel.
Variations and Substitutions
You don’t need to stick strictly with just one variation of caramel; there are several ways to change up the recipe according to your taste.
Experimenting with different ingredients can be fun!
Consider using dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup for a richer flavor.
Reducing or increasing the vanilla extract can also change the flavor intensity.
Dairy Options
If you prefer plant-based options, try substituting coconut milk or almond milk for heavy cream.
These alternatives can give a unique taste while keeping the texture smooth and creamy.
Sweetener Alternatives
For those seeking less refined sugar, experiment with honey or maple syrup in place of traditional granulated sugar.
These sweeteners can add a different depth of flavor to your caramel.
Salt and Flavor Enhancements
Adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the finished caramel can introduce a delectable balance between sweet and savory notes.
Additionally, consider infusing the caramel with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add an extra layer of warmth to your creation.
How to Store Leftover Martha Stewart Caramel
Storing leftover Martha Stewart caramel properly is key to maintaining its rich flavor and smooth texture.
First, let it cool completely at room temperature to prevent condensation forming in storage containers.
Airtight Container
Transfer the caramel into an airtight container to keep freshness locked in.
A jar with a tight seal or a plastic container with a secure lid works perfectly.
Keep the container in a cool, dry place if you plan to use it within a week.
Refrigeration Method
If you want to keep it fresh for a bit longer, refrigerating the caramel is your best bet.
Make sure it’s in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors.
It can last in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.
Freezing Option
For longer storage, consider freezing.
Portion it into smaller containers or freezer-safe zip-top bags.
Don’t forget to label with the date before storing it in the freezer for up to three months.
Giving it a little thought will help your caramel maintain its deliciousness for your next culinary creation!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Stirring the Sugar
When the sugar dissolves and starts boiling, resist the urge to stir it.
Stirring can cause the sugar crystals to become unstable, leading to unwanted crystallization.
It’s better to gently swirl the pot if needed.
Adding Cold Ingredients
If you add cold cream or butter to the hot sugar mixture, you might end up with a clumpy mess.
Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before adding them to avoid this issue.
This helps the ingredients blend smoothly, ensuring the right consistency.
Cooking on Humid Days
Making caramel on a humid day can be tricky.
Humidity can affect how your caramel sets, leading to sticky or soft candies.
Try making caramel on a day when the air is dry for the best results.

Martha Stewart Caramel Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups Sugar
- 4 cups Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 4 cups Light Corn Syrup
- 1 tsp Salt
- 2 sticks Unsalted Butter cut into 16 pieces
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, pour in the sugar and begin cooking it over medium heat.
- Make sure to do this gently until it dissolves.
- Add the corn syrup, heavy cream, condensed milk, and butter pieces gradually.
- Keep stirring to combine all ingredients smoothly.
- Continue heating the mixture.
- Stir it occasionally so it reaches a golden-brown color.
- This step is crucial for achieving the right flavor.
- Once the caramel reaches your desire, pour it into a prepared, lightly oiled baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Ensure an even spread using a spatula.
- Let it cool at room temperature before cutting into pieces.
- This cooling allows for easier handling and cutting.