Rosemary Caramels
Caramel is already a comfort food, but add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary, and it turns into something special. These rosemary caramels are rich, buttery, and just herbal enough to make people ask, “What’s in this?” (In a good way.) The rosemary is USDA Certified Organic, grown right here in Arlington, VA at Area 2 Farms.
Ingredients:
1 cup butter
4 cups sugar
2 cups light corn syrup
24 ounces evaporated milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
4–5 sprigs fresh rosemary
Flaky sea salt (optional, but highly recommended)
Parchment paper and a 9x13 pan
Note: If your pan is slightly larger or smaller, don’t worry. The caramels will just be a bit thinner or thicker.
Instructions:
1. Line Your Pan:
Line a rimmed 9x13-inch pan with parchment paper and set it aside. You’ll want it ready before the caramel is hot and ready to pour.
2. Start the Base:
In a medium-sized pot, melt the butter, sugar, and corn syrup over medium heat. The mixture will bubble and rise as it heats, so make sure your pot has room to grow.
3. Infuse with Rosemary + Add Milk Slowly:
Once the mixture reaches a full boil, add in your rosemary sprigs. Then, slowly (really slowly!) pour in the evaporated milk while stirring constantly. This keeps the mixture from curdling and helps keep the texture smooth.
4. Stir and Watch the Temp:
Keep stirring as the mixture thickens and deepens in color. Using a candy thermometer, cook until the caramel reaches between 240–245°F (the soft-ball stage).
Or, you can test it the old-fashioned way. Just drizzle a bit into ice water, let it cool, and roll it between your fingers. If it forms a soft but firm ball, you’re good to go.
5. Strain, Pour, Salt:
Once you’ve reached your target temperature and consistency, remove the rosemary sprigs and stir in the vanilla. Carefully pour the hot caramel into your prepared pan. Let it cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle with flaky finishing salt.
6. Chill + Cut:
Refrigerate until firm. The caramel will be quite hard straight from the fridge, so let it sit at room temperature for a bit before cutting. Slice into bite-sized squares or long rustic strips.
Area 2 Farms for Locals
Your food should be equally accessible and nutritious. Which is where we come in. At Area 2 Farms, we grow fresh organic produce within 10 miles of you.
