Santa Claus Cranberry Pomegranate Caramels

These Santa Claus Cranberry Pomegranate Caramels are buttery, tart, and perfectly chewy. Their natural red hue and fruity flavor make them a standout Christmas candy ideal for gifting.

Prep time

20 minutes

Cook time

2 hours 30 minutes

Total time

2 hours 50 minutes

Yield

30-40 caramels

Ingredients

2 cups no sugar added pomegranate juice

2 cups no sugar added cranberry juice

3/4 cup granulated white sugar

3/4 cup light brown sugar

1 cup unsalted butter, cubed

1/3 cup heavy cream

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt

Peel from 1/2 of an orange, pith removed

Instructions

1. Prepare Juice: Combine pomegranate and cranberry juice with orange peel and simmer until thickened to a syrup.
2. Melt and Mix: Add sugars, butter, and cream. Stir until smooth.
3. Boil and Cook: Attach a candy thermometer. Cook to 245°F for soft or 255°F for firm caramels.
4. Flavor and Pour: Stir in vanilla and salt, pour into a parchment-lined 8x8 pan.
5. Cool and Cut: Chill for 90 minutes, then slice into rectangles.
6. Wrap: Wrap each caramel in wax paper for storage or gifting.

Notes

Freshly squeezed juice gives the best color and flavor. For a gourmet touch, dip the caramels in dark chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt.