Chocolate Caramel Bites
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love making Chocolate Caramel Bites because they combine rich, velvety chocolate with a gooey caramel center that’s absolutely irresistible. The first time I tried this recipe, I was surprised by how easy it is to create such a decadent treat. It’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors, and they make for a great dessert or sweet snack. Whether I'm serving them at a party or indulging just for myself, these bites always leave me craving more. Plus, they’re incredibly fun to make!
When I first set out to create these Chocolate Caramel Bites, I experimented with different types of chocolate and caramel until I found the perfect balance. The result was a delicious bite-sized treat that satisfies both chocolate and caramel cravings. I love that the recipe lets me use high-quality ingredients, which really makes a difference in the flavor.
During the process, I learned that chilling the bites before cutting them ensures clean edges and helps with presentation. I always recommend storing them in the fridge for that perfect bite of coolness when you sink your teeth into the soft caramel. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with gooey caramel center
- Perfect bite-sized treats for any occasion
- Simple to make, yet impressive to serve
Perfecting Your Chocolate Melt
When melting chocolate for the bites, be mindful of the heat level. Too high a temperature can seize the chocolate, making it grainy and unusable. I recommend using a double boiler setup or a heatproof bowl over simmering water, ensuring the water doesn't touch the bowl. Stir the chocolate continuously until it becomes glossy and smooth, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once melted, allow it to cool slightly before pouring to avoid burning your caramel filling.
If you're short on time and prefer a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each interval. This method is fast but requires attention to prevent overheating. Aim for a gently melted, fully incorporated texture without any lumps for the best results.
Achieving the Right Caramel Consistency
For the caramel filling, the key is achieving a smooth texture without overcooking. Heat the soft caramel candies with the heavy cream over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the caramel from sticking to the pan. A perfect consistency should be thick yet pourable, which typically takes about 5-8 minutes. If the mixture becomes too thick after cooling, you can reheat it gently with a splash more of cream to bring it back to the right pourable state.
If you're looking for a healthier twist, consider using homemade caramel made from dates or coconut sugar. While these substitutes might alter the classic caramel flavor slightly, they can add a unique taste profile. Just keep in mind that the melting properties and consistency might differ, so adjust the cream quantity accordingly.
Ingredients
For the Bites
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 100g milk chocolate, chopped
- 200g soft caramel candies
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
Melt the Chocolate
In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark and milk chocolate. Place it over a pot of simmering water and melt gently, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Caramel
In a small saucepan, heat the soft caramel candies with heavy cream over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
Assemble the Bites
Pour a layer of melted chocolate into mini muffin cups, then add a spoonful of the caramel mixture. Top with more melted chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt.
Chill and Serve
Place the muffin tray in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until set. Once firm, pop the bites out and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Using high-quality chocolate makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Don’t rush the melting process to avoid seizing the chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
When serving the Chocolate Caramel Bites, consider pairing them with fresh fruit like strawberries or banana slices to balance the richness of the chocolate and caramel. A dollop of whipped cream can also elevate the dessert, giving it a lightness that complements the bites. For a fun twist, you could even drizzle some berry compote over the bites before serving.
These bites are a hit at parties, especially when presented on a tiered cake stand. You can even add a themed touch based on the season or occasion—like a sprinkle of crushed peppermint for winter or a hint of sea salt caramel sauce for summer get-togethers. The versatility makes these bites perfect for both casual and more formal events.
Storing and Make-Ahead Ideas
If you want to make these Chocolate Caramel Bites in advance, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to keep them separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking. If storing in the freezer, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just let them thaw in the fridge before serving to maintain their texture.
When planning to make these bites ahead of time, consider making the chocolate and caramel components separately. You can prepare the chocolate coating and the caramel filling up to a week in advance. On the day you're ready to assemble, simply melt the chocolate and fill the cups for a fresh and delicious treat with minimal effort.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match dark, milk, or white chocolate according to your preference.
→ How do I store the Chocolate Caramel Bites?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
→ Is it possible to make these bites without caramel?
Yes, you can substitute with nut butter or any other filling you prefer.
→ Can I freeze these bites?
Yes, they freeze well! Just make sure to place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
Chocolate Caramel Bites
I love making Chocolate Caramel Bites because they combine rich, velvety chocolate with a gooey caramel center that’s absolutely irresistible. The first time I tried this recipe, I was surprised by how easy it is to create such a decadent treat. It’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors, and they make for a great dessert or sweet snack. Whether I'm serving them at a party or indulging just for myself, these bites always leave me craving more. Plus, they’re incredibly fun to make!
Created by: Felicity Grant
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 bites
What You'll Need
For the Bites
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 100g milk chocolate, chopped
- 200g soft caramel candies
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- Sea salt for sprinkling
How-To Steps
In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark and milk chocolate. Place it over a pot of simmering water and melt gently, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a small saucepan, heat the soft caramel candies with heavy cream over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.
Pour a layer of melted chocolate into mini muffin cups, then add a spoonful of the caramel mixture. Top with more melted chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt.
Place the muffin tray in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until set. Once firm, pop the bites out and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- Using high-quality chocolate makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Don’t rush the melting process to avoid seizing the chocolate.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 25mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 1g