Salted Caramel Truffles

These salted caramel truffles are a luxurious, bite-sized treat that melt in my mouth with every bite. They strike the perfect balance between sweet and salty, with a rich caramel center wrapped in smooth chocolate. I love making them for special occasions, gifting, or simply indulging in a homemade dessert that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these truffles bring together two of my favorite things: creamy caramel and silky chocolate. The sea salt on top adds just the right contrast, making each truffle incredibly addictive. They’re simple to prepare, require no baking, and store well, which makes them ideal for make-ahead treats. Whether I’m hosting a dinner party or looking for something sweet to enjoy with coffee, these always hit the spot.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Granulated sugar
• Heavy cream
• Unsalted butter
• Vanilla extract
• Sea salt or flaky salt
• Semi-sweet or dark chocolate (for coating)
• Optional: light corn syrup (for smoother caramel texture), chocolate sprinkles or crushed nuts for decoration

directions

1. I start by heating sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns a deep amber color.

2. I carefully add the butter, then the cream, whisking until smooth. I let it bubble for a minute or two to thicken slightly.

3. I remove it from the heat, stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then pour the caramel into a dish to cool completely and firm up in the fridge (about 1–2 hours).

4. Once chilled, I scoop out small portions and roll them into balls.

5. I freeze the caramel balls for 20–30 minutes to make them easier to coat.

6. I melt the chocolate in a heat-safe bowl (using a double boiler or microwave in intervals), then dip each caramel ball into the chocolate and set them on parchment paper.

7. I sprinkle a little flaky salt on top before the chocolate sets.

8. I chill the truffles until firm and store them in the fridge.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 truffles.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: approximately 2 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add a splash of bourbon or espresso to the caramel for a more complex flavor. I’ve also tried rolling the truffles in cocoa powder, crushed nuts, or drizzle with white chocolate for a decorative touch. If I want a richer texture, I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet.

storage/reheating

I store these truffles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. For the best texture, I let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for having a sweet treat ready anytime.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Yes, if I’m short on time, I use thick, high-quality store-bought caramel, chill it, and follow the rest of the steps. Just make sure it’s firm enough to roll into balls.

Why did my caramel turn grainy?

Caramel can crystallize if I stir it too much or don’t let the sugar melt evenly. I make sure to stir gently and consistently, and I avoid scraping the sides of the pan.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

Definitely. I’ve used milk chocolate when I want a sweeter truffle, especially if I’m making them for kids or gifting.

How do I prevent the caramel from leaking out?

Chilling and freezing the caramel balls before dipping helps a lot. I also make sure the chocolate coating is thick enough to seal them well.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I often double it when I’m making a batch for gifting or events. Just make sure to chill the caramel long enough so it firms up properly.

Conclusion

These salted caramel truffles are everything I want in a homemade treat—rich, creamy, and full of flavor. They’re surprisingly easy to make and always feel like something special. Whether I’m keeping them for myself or sharing them with others, they never fail to impress.