Chocolate Caramel Bites
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making Chocolate Caramel Bites when I want to impress my friends or treat myself to something special. The combination of rich chocolate and gooey caramel creates a delightful contrast that's hard to resist. It’s a fun recipe that brings joy in every bite, and it's perfect for sharing on special occasions. I enjoy the process of dipping each bite in chocolate, which adds an extra layer of indulgence. Once you try these, you'll see why they have become a go-to treat for me.
When I first started making these Chocolate Caramel Bites, I was looking for a sweet treat that was both simple and decadent. I discovered that using quality chocolate is key for a smooth finish. I experimented with the chocolate coating and found that tempering the chocolate gave it that irresistible shine and snap.
One of my most memorable moments was when I brought these to a gathering, and they disappeared within minutes! The balance of sweet and salty from the caramel, paired with the richness of the chocolate, makes these bites the perfect indulgence. I recommend using sea salt on top to enhance the flavors beautifully.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Decadent chocolate paired with luscious caramel.
- Perfectly sized bites for sharing or indulging.
- An impressive treat that is surprisingly easy to make.
Mastering Caramel
Making caramel can be a delicate process, but with attention, it can yield a warm, golden treat. Start by cooking the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring frequently to ensure even melting. This prevents the sugar from burning, which can lead to a bitter taste. As the sugar transforms to a rich amber, remove it from the heat promptly after you've achieved that ideal shade to prevent overcooking.
After the sugar has melted, adding butter introduces creaminess that balances the caramel's sweetness. Take care when adding the heavy cream; it can bubble vigorously. Stir consistently for a few minutes until the mixture is homogeneous and silky. If you find your caramel is grainy, gently reheat it while stirring until it's smooth. The additional salt enhances the flavors and creates a pleasing contrast with the chocolate later.
Perfecting the Chocolate Coating
When melting chocolate for coating your caramel bites, consider using a double boiler. This method evenly distributes heat and reduces the risk of seizing, which occurs when chocolate is overheated. If you opt for the microwave, heat the chocolate in short intervals of 20 seconds, stirring after each to achieve a glossy finish without overheating.
Adding coconut oil to the melted chocolate not only enhances the shine but also improves the fluidity, making the coating process smoother. If you don’t have coconut oil, vegetable oil can be a suitable substitute. Be ready with parchment paper as soon as you dip the caramels, as that will help prevent sticking and allow for clean chocolate-covered bites.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to prepare your Chocolate Caramel Bites:
For the Caramel
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
For the Chocolate Coating
- 2 cups dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoothness)
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to make this delightful treat!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Caramel Bites:
Make the Caramel
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and cook until it melts into a golden caramel. Stir in butter, then add cream and salt. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until smooth.
Cut the Caramel
Once the caramel has set, cut it into small squares or rectangles. This will be the filling for your bites.
Prepare the Chocolate
Melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth.
Coat the Caramel
Dip each caramel piece into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place on parchment paper to set.
Once set, enjoy your delicious Chocolate Caramel Bites!
Pro Tips
- Make sure to work swiftly with the caramel, as it can harden quickly. For added flavor, try mixing in a splash of vanilla extract into the caramel while cooking.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Chocolate Caramel Bites can be made a few days in advance, making them an excellent treat for gatherings or celebrations. Once coated, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks, although the texture will be slightly firmer, which many still enjoy.
For longer storage solutions, consider freezing the bites. Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can remain frozen for several months. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving to maintain their delightful texture.
Variations to Try
While dark chocolate is classic, experimenting with milk or white chocolate can bring a unique flair to your Chocolate Caramel Bites. Each type of chocolate will impart its distinct flavor profile that harmonizes with the sweet, buttery caramel. Try adding crushed nuts or pretzels to the chocolate coating for added texture and a delightful salty contrast.
For a flavor twist, consider infusing the caramel with extracts such as vanilla or sea salt caramel. You could even incorporate flavored chocolates, like orange or mint, into your coating to give a refreshing twist. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative while still enjoying the fundamental pleasure of chocolate and caramel!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter coating.
→ How do I store the Chocolate Caramel Bites?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I add nuts to the caramel?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts can enhance the texture and flavor of your bites.
→ How long does it take for the chocolate to set?
It typically takes about 30 minutes for the chocolate to set at room temperature.
Chocolate Caramel Bites
I absolutely love making Chocolate Caramel Bites when I want to impress my friends or treat myself to something special. The combination of rich chocolate and gooey caramel creates a delightful contrast that's hard to resist. It’s a fun recipe that brings joy in every bite, and it's perfect for sharing on special occasions. I enjoy the process of dipping each bite in chocolate, which adds an extra layer of indulgence. Once you try these, you'll see why they have become a go-to treat for me.
Created by: Naomi Clarke
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 bites
What You'll Need
For the Caramel
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
For the Chocolate Coating
- 2 cups dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoothness)
How-To Steps
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and cook until it melts into a golden caramel. Stir in butter, then add cream and salt. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until smooth. Pour into a greased pan and let cool completely.
Once the caramel has set, cut it into small squares or rectangles. This will be the filling for your bites.
Melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth.
Dip each caramel piece into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place on parchment paper to set.
Extra Tips
- Make sure to work swiftly with the caramel, as it can harden quickly. For added flavor, try mixing in a splash of vanilla extract into the caramel while cooking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 1g