Fannie Mae Caramels

Instructions

1. Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Set aside.

2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined.

3. Insert the candy thermometer into the mixture and bring it to a boil. Stir constantly to prevent scorching. Cook the mixture until it reaches 245°F (firm-ball stage) on the candy thermometer. This should take about 10-15 minutes.

4. Once the caramel reaches the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Be cautious as the mixture will be extremely hot.

5. Pour the hot caramel mixture into the prepared baking dish. Let it cool at room temperature for a few hours until completely set. You can also place it in the refrigerator to speed up the process.

6. Once the caramel has set, use the parchment paper to lift it out of the dish. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into individual pieces. If desired, wrap each caramel in wax paper for a classic look.

7. Enjoy the Fannie Mae Caramels as a delightful treat or wrap them up as a thoughtful gift for friends and family. These caramels are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature and will keep for up to two weeks.