Step 1

Line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving 1-2 inches hanging over the sides.

Step 2

Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and combine butter and sugar until butter is melted and sugar dissolved.

Step 3

Stir in condensed milk and corn syrup, and bring to a boil. Continue to stir constantly and reduce heat to low. Cook mixture until it’s an amber color, about 8 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in vanilla extract and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until caramel is a deep amber color.

Step 5

Pour into lined baking dish, sprinkle with sea salt (if using) and let cool.

Step 6

Once set, slice caramel into thin strips. Wrap caramels in wax paper or serve as is!