Indulge in the rich and decadent delight of a homemade caramel slice with this tantalizing recipe. Bursting with layers of velvety caramel, buttery crust, and luscious chocolate, this dessert is a true showstopper for any occasion.
Immerse yourself in the sweet symphony of flavors as you sink your teeth into the crisp base, infused with the tantalizing aroma of melted butter. The silky smooth caramel layer, made from creamy condensed milk and golden syrup, adds a delightful chewiness that lingers on your palate. And finally, the crowning glory – a generous layer of velvety chocolate, perfectly balanced to complement the sweet caramel.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or an aspiring dessert connoisseur, this caramel slice recipe is sure to impress. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone craving for more. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a blissful journey of caramel goodness. Trust us, once you’ve tasted this heavenly treat, you’ll never look back.
The ultimate indulgence is just a slice away.
Ingredients for Making Caramel Slice recipe
To create this delectable caramel slice, you will need the following ingredients:
- For the Base:
- 200g (7oz) plain flour
- 100g (3.5oz) unsalted butter, melted
- 75g (2.6oz) caster sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Caramel Layer:
- 400g (14oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 100g (3.5oz) unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons golden syrup
- For the Chocolate Topping:
- 200g (7oz) milk chocolate, chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Caramel Slice
- Prepare the Base:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, melted butter, caster sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Make the Caramel Layer:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, and golden syrup. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and the butter has melted completely.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly, for approximately 10-15 minutes or until it thickens and turns a caramel color. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Pour the caramel evenly over the cooled base, using a spatula to spread it out. Allow it to cool completely and set.
- Add the Chocolate Topping:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the milk chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler.
- Once melted, stir in the vegetable oil until well combined. This will give the chocolate a glossy finish.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Allow the chocolate to set completely before slicing.
Tips for Making the Perfect Caramel Slice
- When making the base, make sure to press it firmly into the baking pan to ensure a solid foundation for the layers.
- For the caramel layer, stir continuously to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan and burning.
- To achieve a smooth and glossy chocolate topping, make sure to melt the chocolate gently and stir in the vegetable oil until well combined.
Variations of Caramel Slice
- Salted Caramel Slice: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt flakes over the caramel layer before adding the chocolate topping for a delightful salty-sweet twist.
- Nutty Caramel Slice: Add a layer of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, on top of the caramel layer before pouring over the chocolate.
- White Chocolate Caramel Slice: Replace the milk chocolate with white chocolate for a creamy and indulgent variation.
Serving and Storing Caramel Slice
Once the caramel slice is fully set, carefully remove it from the baking pan and cut it into small squares or rectangles. Serve it on a platter and watch it disappear within minutes. This caramel slice is perfect for parties, afternoon tea, or as a special treat for yourself.
To store the caramel slice, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate the slices with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Healthier Alternatives to Traditional Caramel Slice
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to the traditional caramel slice, here are a few tweaks you can make:
- Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute the plain flour with whole wheat flour to add more fiber to the base.
- Replace Sugar with Natural Sweeteners: Use natural sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar instead of caster sugar in the base and caramel layer.
- Dark Chocolate Topping: Opt for dark chocolate with a higher percentage of cocoa for a healthier chocolate topping.
Frequently Asked Questions about Caramel Slice
- Can I use store-bought caramel instead of making it from scratch?
- Yes, you can use store-bought caramel if you’re short on time. Just make sure it has a similar consistency to the homemade caramel in the recipe.
- Can I freeze the caramel slice?
- Yes, you can freeze the caramel slice for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
- Can I use salted butter for the caramel layer?
- Yes, you can use salted butter if you prefer a slightly salted caramel flavor.
Conclusion
Indulge in the irresistible allure of homemade caramel slice with this delectable recipe. The buttery crust, chewy caramel layer, and velvety chocolate topping create a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Whether you enjoy it as a treat for yourself or share it with loved ones, this caramel slice is guaranteed to impress. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the magic unfold in your kitchen. Happy baking!