Celebrating Your National Caramel Day with 5 Irresistible Recipes

Celebrating Your National Caramel Day with 5 Irresistible Recipes

Published on Apr 3, 2024

National Caramel Day in the USA is a delightful occasion that celebrates the rich, gooey, and indulgent sweetness of caramel. From classic caramel candies to decadent desserts, this special day offers a perfect opportunity to explore a wide range of caramel-infused recipes. In this article, we'll take you on a mouthwatering journey through some of the most delicious and creative caramel recipes inspired by the flavors and traditions of the United States.

National Caramel Day Recipe 1: All-American Caramel Apple Pie

There's nothing quite as American as a warm and comforting slice of caramel apple pie. This classic dessert combines the tartness of fresh apples, the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the irresistible sweetness of caramel in a flaky homemade crust. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will fill your kitchen with the delightful aroma of apples and caramel.

Ingredients

For the crust

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the filling

  • 6-7 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the caramel sauce (optional)

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Prepare the crust by combining flour, salt, and cold cubed butter. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together. Divide into two disks and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  • In a separate bowl, coat sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Roll out one disk of dough and place it in a pie dish. Spread caramel sauce on the bottom, then add the apple filling.
  • Roll out the second disk of dough and place it on top of the filling, either as a whole crust or in a lattice pattern.
  • Seal and crimp the edges of the pie.
  • Bake for 45-55 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
  • Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving.
  • Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally drizzling each slice with additional caramel sauce.

Cooking Tips

  • To prevent your crust from becoming soggy, you can pre-bake it for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
  • If you prefer a deeper caramel flavor, you can make your own caramel sauce by combining the granulated sugar and butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture turns a deep amber color. Remove from heat and carefully add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth and let it cool before using.

National Caramel Day Recipe 2: Southern Caramel Pecan Pralines

Indulge in the flavors of the South with these delectable caramel pecan pralines. These candies are a true Southern delicacy, known for their creamy texture, caramelized sugar, and buttery pecans. With just a few simple ingredients and some insider tips, you can create these irresistible treats that will transport you to the heart of the South.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups pecan halves
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  • Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the butter has melted and the sugars have dissolved.
  • Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan, making sure it doesn't touch the bottom. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
  • Continue cooking the mixture, stirring frequently, until the temperature reaches 235°F (113°C) on the candy thermometer. This will take approximately 8-10 minutes.
  • Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the pecan halves, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir vigorously for a few minutes to cool and thicken the mixture slightly.
  • Working quickly, drop spoonfuls of the caramel pecan mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each praline. Allow them to cool and set completely.
  • Once the pralines have cooled and hardened, transfer them to an airtight container for storage. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks.