What’s a better treat for this holiday season? Apple-Flavored caramels really evoke the essence of the holidays. These candies cook up very fast and make a sweet gift for friends and family. Boiled cider, fresh nutmeg and cinnamon add the warm, baked-apple flavor. 

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup boiled cider*
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon powdered cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon grated nutmeg

Directions:

1. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with shortening. Line it with a piece of parchment that overhangs the long edges of the pan.
2. Stir together the heavy cream and syrup in a 6 quart stock pot. Add the granulated sugar, cubed butter and boiled cider. Stir well until the mixture is a consistent color.
3. Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pot, or insert the wand of a digital thermometer into the mixture and set the alarm to 248°F.
4. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally. When sugar is dissolved and mixture is at a full boil, decrease the heat to medium-high. The mixture will continue to bubble. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the candy thermometer reads 248°F.
5. Stir together the salt, cinnamon and nutmeg in a small condiment cup. Remove the pan from the heat source. Be careful, it will still be bubbling.
6. Stir in the spice mixture.
7. Pour the caramel into the prepared pan.
8. Let the pan stand, uncovered, at room temperature overnight. You may also refrigerate the pan for quicker setting. Run a knife between the parchment paper and pan.Turn the solid caramel block out on a work surface or cutting board. Cut it into 1 x 5-inch lengths.
9. Wrap the caramels in 6-inch squares of wax paper and twist the ends to close. Be sure to wrap them soon after they’re cut into pieces; if left at room temperature for an extended period of time, the caramels will relax and lose their shape. Keep caramels in an air-tight container at room temperature for up to 8 days. Caramels will keep slightly longer when stored in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.