Extra Salted Caramel Bites: A Sweet Indulgence for Everyone Recipe
There is nothing quite like the blissful harmony of sweet and salty combined into a single irresistible treat, and that’s exactly what makes Extra Salted Caramel Bites: A Sweet Indulgence for Everyone a must-try delight. These little wonders bring together rich, buttery caramel enrobed in silky chocolate with just the right sprinkle of sea salt, making them a perfect balance of flavors that captivate any palate. Whether you’re looking for a quick homemade dessert or a charming gift to brighten someone’s day, these bites promise to enchant with every melt-in-your-mouth moment. Trust me, once you experience these, they’ll quickly become your go-to sweet indulgence for every occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key, but don’t worry—this recipe keeps it simple and uses pantry staples that each do their magic to create the perfect texture, flavor, and color. From the buttery richness of unsalted butter to the delicate crunch of sea salt, every item plays an irresistible role.
- Granulated sugar: The foundation for caramel, it melts and browns to build that deep golden flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Adds a luscious creaminess without overwhelming the sweetness.
- Heavy cream: Creates a smooth, velvety caramel texture that softens the sugar’s snap.
- Sea salt: Introduces that perfect salty contrast, elevating the caramel’s richness.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Coat the caramel in a silky chocolate shell that balances sweetness with a subtle bite.
- Additional sea salt for garnish: A final flourish that enhances both taste and presentation.
How to Make Extra Salted Caramel Bites: A Sweet Indulgence for Everyone
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel
Begin by melting the granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it becomes a beautiful golden amber color. Seeing the sugar transform like this is pure kitchen magic, and it’s the flavor base that sets the whole recipe apart.
Step 2: Add the Butter
Once the sugar reaches that gorgeous caramel hue, carefully add the unsalted butter. It will bubble up energetically, so proceed gently! Stir until the butter is fully melted and fully integrated with the caramel — this is where the richness begins to build.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cream
Pour in the heavy cream slowly while whisking continuously. The mixture will bubble again, but patience is key as it smooths out into a luscious caramel sauce. Continue stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until everything blends flawlessly.
Step 4: Season with Sea Salt
Stir in one teaspoon of sea salt to weave that essential salty-sweet balance into your caramel. Salt truly is the quiet hero here, awakening flavors and creating depth. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let your caramel cool slightly—it needs to be warm but manageable for shaping.
Step 5: Form the Caramel Bites
Using a small scoop or your hands, shape the caramel into bite-sized balls and place them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. The bite-size nature of these treats makes them absolutely perfect for sharing — but be warned, you might want to keep a few just for yourself!
Step 6: Chill the Caramel
Pop the bites into the fridge for around 30 minutes so they firm up nicely. This step ensures they hold their shape through dipping and garnishing.
Step 7: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in short 30-second bursts, stirring between intervals until you achieve a silky, smooth consistency that’s perfect for coating.
Step 8: Coat the Caramel Bites
Dip each chilled caramel ball fully into the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off before placing them back on your parchment-lined tray. This chocolate barrier seals in the gooey caramel inside while adding its own irresistible flavor.
Step 9: Sprinkle the Finishing Salt
While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt atop each bite. This little extra touch not only looks inviting but amplifies the sweet and salty sensation that defines these treats.
Step 10: Final Chill for Setting
Return the chocolate-coated bites to the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes until the chocolate hardens and your Extra Salted Caramel Bites: A Sweet Indulgence for Everyone are ready to dazzle.
How to Serve Extra Salted Caramel Bites: A Sweet Indulgence for Everyone
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt is classic, but you can also experiment by adding crushed nuts, a drizzle of white chocolate, or even edible gold flakes for that extra-special touch. Garnishes don’t just make the bites look amazing; they add layers of texture and flavor to savor.
Side Dishes
Pair your Extra Salted Caramel Bites with creamy vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert combo, or set them alongside a plate of fresh fruit like crisp apples or juicy berries to balance the sweetness. For a comforting twist, a warm cup of black coffee or rich espresso beautifully complements their decadent profile.
Creative Ways to Present
These bites make fantastic party favors or gifts—wrap a handful in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon, or arrange them neatly in a decorative box with parchment paper. Serving them on a slate platter with some flower petals can instantly elevate any celebration. Their small size makes it easy to get creative!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store these Extra Salted Caramel Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and fabulous for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy their sweet indulgence whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
For long-term enjoyment, freeze the bites for up to three months. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking, and thaw them in the fridge overnight before indulging to preserve their perfect texture and flavor.
Reheating
While these bites are best eaten chilled, if you prefer a slightly softer caramel texture, let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as the chocolate coating can melt unevenly and become messy.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted in this recipe?
While salted butter can be used, it’s best to stick to unsalted butter so you can control the salt level precisely, especially since sea salt is added separately to enhance the flavor.
Is it possible to make these bites vegan or dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter and cream with vegan alternatives like coconut oil and coconut cream, and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too much?
Make sure you don’t overcook the sugar and avoid letting the caramel cool completely before shaping. If it gets too hard, warming it gently can make it pliable again for dipping.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a richer, slightly more bitter contrast to the sweetness, which many find delightful. Feel free to customize based on your preference.
What’s the best way to measure the caramel bites evenly?
Using a small cookie scoop or melon baller ensures uniform-sized bites that chill evenly and look professional. It also helps portion control so everyone gets the perfect bite!
Final Thoughts
Making Extra Salted Caramel Bites: A Sweet Indulgence for Everyone is not just about creating a dessert—it’s about crafting moments of joy and warmth that you can share with loved ones or savor on your own. Their simple ingredients transform into a spectacular treat that’s both sophisticated and approachable. So put on your apron, embrace the sweet and salty harmony, and get ready to treat yourself to something truly special. I promise, once you try them, these bites will hold a special place in your heart (and your dessert repertoire) for a lifetime.
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Extra Salted Caramel Bites: A Sweet Indulgence for Everyone Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 25–30 bites 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Extra Salted Caramel Bites are irresistibly rich and buttery treats that combine the perfect balance of sweet caramel and a hint of sea salt, all wrapped in luscious semi-sweet chocolate. These bite-sized delights are quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether as a lovely dessert, a party favor, or a thoughtful gift. Their smooth texture and flavor harmony make them an unforgettable indulgence for sweet and salty snack lovers alike.
Ingredients
Caramel Mixture
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Chocolate Coating
- 10 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Additional sea salt for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Caramel Mixture: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar. Stir constantly as the sugar melts and transforms into a beautiful golden caramel color, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Add the Butter: Carefully add the unsalted butter into the melted sugar while stirring. The mixture will bubble energetically. Continue stirring until the butter completely melts and blends in smoothly.
- Incorporate the Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously to combine. Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up again. Keep stirring for 2 to 3 minutes until the caramel is smooth and homogenous.
- Season with Salt: Stir in 1 teaspoon of sea salt to the caramel mixture and take the saucepan off the heat. Let the caramel cool for a few minutes to thicken slightly, making it easier to handle.
- Form the Bites: Once the caramel is cool but still pliable, use a small scoop or your hands to shape bite-sized balls. Place these on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Chill: Refrigerate the caramel balls for about 30 minutes so they firm up and hold their shape better for coating.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and melt them in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, until completely smooth and glossy.
- Coat the Bites: Dip each chilled caramel ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Place the chocolate-coated bites back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet carefully.
- Add Final Touches: While the chocolate is still warm and tacky, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each bite for that signature salted caramel finish.
- Final Chill: Return the coated bites to the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes until the chocolate sets solidly. Once firm, they are ready to enjoy or store.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to melt sugar to about 350°F for perfect caramel clarity and flavor.
- Allow caramel to cool slightly before shaping to avoid sticky mess and easier handling.
- Adjust salt quantity to taste—more or less salt can be added to suit your preference.
- Store caramel bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
- For longer storage, freeze bites up to three months separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Bring frozen bites to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Stovetop caramel preparation and chocolate dipping
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite (about 20 grams)
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 75 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: salted caramel bites, caramel chocolate bites, homemade caramel treats, sweet and salty dessert, easy chocolate caramel recipe
