Salted caramel truffles are rich, velvety bites of caramel bliss wrapped in a smooth chocolate shell and finished with a hint of sea salt. Each one melts in my mouth with the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and creamy. These truffles look elegant, taste luxurious, and are surprisingly easy to make at home with just a few basic ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how indulgent and satisfying these truffles are. The caramel center is soft and buttery, and the chocolate coating gives it that perfect snap. The sprinkle of sea salt not only adds contrast but also brings out the deeper notes of caramel and chocolate. They make a stunning homemade gift or an impressive dessert for parties—yet I don’t need any fancy equipment to pull them off.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Granulated sugar
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Unsalted butter
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Heavy cream
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Vanilla extract
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Sea salt (fine for the caramel, flaky for topping)
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Semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
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Optional: a little corn syrup or golden syrup for extra smooth caramel
Directions
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In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, I melt the sugar until it turns a deep amber color, stirring occasionally.
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I carefully add the butter and whisk until melted and combined.
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I pour in the heavy cream (slowly, as it may bubble), then stir in a pinch of fine sea salt and the vanilla.
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I let the caramel simmer for a couple of minutes until thick, then pour it into a dish and chill until firm enough to scoop—about 1 hour.
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Once the caramel is firm, I scoop out small portions and roll them into balls. I place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze them for 15–20 minutes to make coating easier.
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I melt the chocolate in a bowl (either over a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts), then dip each caramel ball into the chocolate using a fork or dipping tool.
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I place the coated truffles back on the parchment paper and sprinkle with flaky sea salt before the chocolate sets.
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I chill the truffles until the coating is firm, then store them in an airtight container.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20–24 truffles.
Total time is about 2 hours, including chilling:
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30 minutes for preparation and caramel cooking
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1 hour to chill the caramel
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30 minutes for shaping, coating, and finishing
Variations
Sometimes I add a splash of bourbon or espresso to the caramel for a deeper, more complex flavor. I’ve also used white chocolate or milk chocolate for coating instead of dark. For a crunchier texture, I roll the caramel balls in crushed nuts or cookie crumbs before dipping them in chocolate. If I want to keep it dairy-free, I use coconut cream and vegan butter substitutes.
Storage/Reheating
I store the truffles in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. If I want to serve them at room temperature, I take them out about 10–15 minutes before eating. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
Why is my caramel too runny to roll?
It likely needs more chilling time. I make sure it’s fully cooled and firm before trying to shape it—overnight in the fridge works best if I’m unsure.
Can I use store-bought caramel?
Yes, I’ve used thick, high-quality store-bought caramel in a pinch. I chill it first so it’s easier to roll into balls.
What chocolate works best for coating?
I prefer dark or semi-sweet chocolate with at least 60% cocoa. It melts well and balances the sweetness of the caramel.
How do I keep the chocolate coating smooth?
I melt the chocolate slowly and stir it until smooth. Sometimes I add a teaspoon of coconut oil or butter to make it glossier.
Do I have to freeze the caramel balls before dipping?
Freezing makes the dipping process much easier, especially if the caramel is soft. It helps the balls hold their shape and keeps them from melting into the chocolate.
Conclusion
Salted caramel truffles are the perfect bite-sized treat when I want something rich, sweet, and a little fancy. With their buttery centers, crisp chocolate shells, and that irresistible touch of sea salt, they’re everything I love in one indulgent package. Whether I’m gifting them or sneaking one for myself, these truffles never disappoint.
