Fruit Caramels

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These luscious Fruit Caramels are a vibrant twist on traditional caramel candy. Bursting with natural fruit flavor and an irresistible chewy texture, they strike the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. Whether you go with raspberry, strawberry, cherry, or a mix of berry blends, each bite offers a juicy punch that’s both nostalgic and refreshing.

Perfect for gifting, snacking, or sharing at your next gathering, these glossy little gems look as stunning as they taste. They’re made with real fruit puree and a simple base of sugar, butter, and cream—no artificial dyes or preservatives. If you’re ready to elevate your homemade candy game, this recipe is a sweet place to start.

Why You’ll Love This Fruit Caramels Recipe

Fruit caramels are an exciting departure from the norm—and surprisingly easy to make. Unlike standard caramel, the addition of fruit puree offers a naturally colorful hue and a bright, fruity finish. They make for a delightful edible gift and are incredibly adaptable to different flavor profiles.

Plus, they hold up well at room temperature and can be wrapped individually, making them ideal for holidays, weddings, or simply stashing away in your candy jar.

What Kind of Fruit Puree Should I Use?

You can use nearly any smooth fruit puree, but berry varieties like raspberry, strawberry, or cherry are especially popular for their vibrant color and bold flavor. The key is to use a thick puree—either store-bought or homemade—that’s been strained of seeds and excess water. If you’re making your own, simmer fresh or frozen fruit with a splash of lemon juice and then blend and strain it.

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Ingredients for the Fruit Caramels

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating these glossy, chewy caramels packed with flavor:

• Fruit Puree (1 cup): This is where the main flavor comes from. Use a smooth, concentrated puree for the best results.
• Granulated Sugar (1 1/2 cups): Helps build that classic caramel sweetness and chewy structure.
• Light Corn Syrup (1/2 cup): Prevents crystallization and gives the caramels a silky, glossy finish.
• Unsalted Butter (6 tablespoons): Adds richness and balances the acidity of the fruit.
• Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Softens the texture while providing creaminess.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the fruit flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor with a subtle warmth.

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How To Make the Fruit Caramels

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine fruit puree, sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt over medium heat. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture starts to boil.

Step 3: Cook to Temperature

Insert a candy thermometer and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 240°F (soft ball stage). Watch closely to prevent scorching.

Step 4: Add Cream and Finish

Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Return to heat and bring back to 240°F. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and pour the mixture into the prepared pan.

Step 5: Set and Slice

Let the caramels cool at room temperature for 2–3 hours, or until firm. Lift from the pan using parchment overhang and cut into bite-sized squares. Wrap individually in wax paper if desired.

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How to Store and Serve Fruit Caramels

This recipe yields about 40 bite-sized caramels, making it perfect for sharing or storing. Once cut and wrapped, they can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Avoid humid areas, which can cause them to become sticky.

You can also refrigerate them for longer shelf life, just let them come to room temperature before serving to regain their chewy texture. These caramels make excellent party favors or additions to a dessert charcuterie board.

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What to Serve With Fruit Caramels?

1. Dark Chocolate Squares

The richness of dark chocolate complements the fruity tang beautifully.

2. Cheese Board with Brie or Aged Cheddar

The creamy and sharp elements of cheese contrast the sweet chewiness of the caramels.

3. Sparkling Wine or Rosé

Bubbles enhance the fruitiness and cleanse the palate between bites.

4. Salted Nuts

A crunchy and savory companion to balance the sweetness.

5. Shortbread Cookies

The buttery, crumbly texture pairs well with the soft chew of caramels.

6. Cranberry Pistachio Bark

More texture, more fruit, more fun—it’s a great pairing for a candy spread.

7. Fruit Compote on Yogurt

A dessert board idea—combine caramels with fruity yogurt parfaits.

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Want More Candy Recipes with a Fruity Twist?

If you love these Fruit Caramels, you’ll probably enjoy these other Nora Nosh favorites:

• Magic Lemon Cobbler for a zesty, gooey spoonful of sunshine.
• Blueberry Cream Cheese Egg Rolls packed with creamy berry bliss.
• Chocolate Raspberry Drip Cake for when you need a show-stopping fruit dessert.
• Easy Apple Crisp Bars with warm spice and a chewy oat crust.
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake because cherries and chocolate are always a good idea.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use raspberries, strawberries, or go tropical with mango puree? Did you wrap them for gifts?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other candy smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more fruity dessert ideas on Nora Nosh Recipes on Pinterest

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