🍏 Apple Cider Caramels 🍏

 A Sweet Slice of Autumn: Homemade Caramels with a Twist! 
Capture the essence of fall with every bite! These Apple Cider Caramels are perfect for cozy gatherings and make a delightful treat for your loved ones.

🍽️ Ingredients 🍽️
- 1/2 cup butter, plus extra for greasing 🧈
- 3/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 3 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream 🥛
- 4 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 8 cups apple cider
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 pinch ground allspice about 1/8 teaspoon
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg about 1/8 teaspoon
- 1 pinch ground ginger about 1/8 teaspoon

🧑‍🍳 Directions 🧑‍🍳
1. Prepare a 9"x13" pan by greasing it with butter, lining with parchment paper that overlaps the edges, and then greasing the parchment again. Set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium heat. Continue to boil until it reduces down to about 1 cup, which could take between 30 minutes to an hour. Keep a close eye on it, especially as it thickens.
3. In a medium pot, combine the heavy cream and butter. Heat over medium until the butter is melted and the mixture begins to simmer.
4. In another large pot, mix together the granulated sugar, reduced apple cider, corn syrup, water, and salt. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pot. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat without stirring until the sugar dissolves and starts to caramelize. Occasionally stir to dissolve any sugar crystals on the side of the pot.
5. Gradually stir the warm cream and butter mixture into the caramelizing sugar. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the thermometer reads 250°F.
6. Remove from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, and nutmeg.
7. Pour the finished caramel into your prepared pan. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate until set.
8. Once chilled and firm, lift the caramel block out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 1-inch strips, then into desired lengths. Wrap each caramel piece in wax or parchment paper.

🍎 Nutritional Information 🍎
- Calories: 150 per piece
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Proteins: 1g
- Fats: 7g
- Sodium: 50mg

💡 Tips and Tricks 💡
- For a fun twist, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the caramels before they set to add a savory contrast to the sweet flavor.
- Store caramels in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and chewy.

⏳ Preparation time ⏳
Preparation time: 60 minutes | Cooking time: 90 minutes | Serving: Makes about 50 caramels.

Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of these Apple Cider Caramels, a true treat that brings the warmth of fall into your home. Perfect for sharing or gifting, these caramels are sure to impress!