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From My Desk: A Practical Guide to Making Homemade Caramels

From My Desk: A Practical Guide to Making Homemade Caramels

As the air turns crisp and Christmas approaches, I find joy in reliving some of my family traditions. At Lehman's, we understand the importance of passing down these time-honored practices, especially when they involve something as sweet and satisfying as homemade caramels. Today, I’m sharing a practical guide to making these amazing treats – a tradition that has been cherished in our family for generations. 

How to Make Homemade Caramels

1. Use Simple Ingredients for Extraordinary Results

Homemade caramels are a blend of simple ingredients crafted together in an artful way. Gather basic pantry staples – sugar, white Karo Syrup, heavy cream, and vanilla extract – and you're well on your way to creating a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. At Lehman's, we appreciate the beauty of uncomplicated recipes that deliver exceptional flavor. Someone once told me that the less ingredients the healthier it is for you. Now, I’m not saying this is healthy by any means, but it is probably less harmful than some store-bought treats. 

2. Master the Art of Patience

Making caramels is a lesson in patience, and it's a virtue well worth cultivating. As the ingredients slowly transform into a rich, golden concoction, take the time to savor the process. My family knows I’m not the most patient person, so this part is hard for me. It does take some time and some manual stirring of the caramels so that it doesn’t stick and burn to your pot; at least 30-45 minutes of stirring. You will want to use a tall pot because the mixture boils up, and you will want to use a pot with a thick bottom. Lehman's understands the value of time-honored techniques, and homemade caramels are no exception.  

Stirring homemade caramels in a pot

3. Continue a Tradition Passed Down

For many of us, the love for homemade caramels is rooted in family. From my Grandma to my Mom, to my wife Sarah and me, and now from my mom to my daughter, Adella, the tradition lives on. Lehman's celebrates the practicality of passing down recipes that bring families together, and creating bonds through shared moments in the kitchen. 

4. Build Your Own Tradition

As you embark on your caramel-making adventure, remember that Lehman's is here to support your practical approach to creating lasting memories. Cheers to sweet traditions and the simple joys they bring – one homemade caramel at a time. 

My family stirring caramels on stove

5. Recipe and Products You Will Need

Stainless Steel Stockpot 

Wooden Spoon 

Thermometer 

Baking Pan 

Homemade Caramels

Zach Coblentz

Today, I’m sharing a practical guide to making amazing homemade caramels – a sweet tradition that has been cherished in our family for generations.

Ingredients

  • 3 pts Heavy Whipping Cream

  • 4–1/4 cups sugar

  • 3 cups white Karo Syrup

  • 2 tsp Vanilla

Instructions

  1. Add all ingredients to a thick-bottomed pot, stirring constantly.

  2. Bring to 235 degrees Fahrenheit.

  3. Pour into a buttered cookie sheet or 9 × 13 baking dish.

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Zach Coblentz

Zach Coblentz

Zach is a 4th generation family member of HRM Enterprises, the parent company of Lehman’s. Zach has been married to his wonderful wife, Sarah, for 20 years and they have 3 children together. He has a passion to spur growth in individuals personally, professionally and spiritually and strives to make the lives of those around him better than they were before. Zach also loves coaching his kids in basketball, baseball and softball. He also cherishes exploring God’s beautiful world with his family and his favorite places he has visited have been Yellowstone National Park and The Grand Canyon. Zach will be sharing his heart for business and leadership through our blog.

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