Homemade Milky Ways

Why You’ll Love Homemade Milky Ways Recipe

Making Milky Ways at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients and customize sweetness and texture. The combination of fluffy nougat, gooey caramel, and creamy chocolate is irresistible. Plus, these homemade bars are fresher and more flavorful than store-bought versions, with the added satisfaction of crafting your own candy from scratch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Granulated sugar

• Corn syrup

• Sweetened condensed milk

• Unsalted butter

• Vanilla extract

• Egg whites

• Salt

• Milk chocolate chips or bars for melting

Directions

1. Prepare a lined baking pan to shape the nougat and caramel layers.

2. To make nougat, whip egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form, then gently fold in vanilla and salt. Pour into the pan and spread evenly.

3. For caramel, heat sugar, corn syrup, butter, and sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan until golden and thickened, stirring constantly. Pour the caramel layer over the nougat.

4. Allow the layered nougat and caramel to set at room temperature or in the fridge until firm.

5. Once set, cut into bars of desired size.

6. Melt the milk chocolate gently using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently.

7. Dip each bar into the melted chocolate to coat fully, then place on parchment paper to set.

8. Refrigerate the coated bars until the chocolate hardens.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12-15 bars depending on size.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Setting time: 2 hours (including cooling and chocolate hardening)

Variations

• Dark Chocolate Milky Ways: Use dark chocolate for coating instead of milk chocolate.

• Peanut Butter Milky Ways: Add a thin layer of peanut butter between the nougat and caramel layers.

• Nutty Milky Ways: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the caramel layer before setting.

• Vegan Version: Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives and use aquafaba instead of egg whites.

Storage/Reheating

Store homemade Milky Ways in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Allow frozen bars to thaw at room temperature before serving. Avoid reheating as it may affect texture and chocolate coating.

FAQs

Can I make these without corn syrup?

Yes, you can substitute corn syrup with honey or golden syrup, but it may slightly change the texture and sweetness.

What can I use instead of egg whites?

Aquafaba (chickpea water) can be used as a vegan alternative to egg whites for whipping nougat.

How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing when melting?

Melt chocolate slowly over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently and avoiding any water contact.

Can I use dark or white chocolate for coating?

Yes, both dark and white chocolate work well and offer different flavor profiles.

How thick should the nougat and caramel layers be?

Aim for about equal thickness of each layer, roughly 1/2 inch each, to achieve the classic Milky Way texture.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the bars?

Refrigeration helps the chocolate set firmly and keeps the bars fresh longer, but they can be stored at room temperature for short periods.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free chocolate.

How long will homemade Milky Ways keep?

Stored properly in the fridge, they last up to 2 weeks and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I add flavors to the nougat?

Yes, you can add almond extract, coffee, or other flavorings to customize your nougat.

How do I cut the bars neatly?

Use a sharp knife and warm it slightly by dipping in hot water, then wipe dry before slicing to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

Homemade Milky Ways offer a delicious and rewarding way to enjoy a classic candy bar with fresh ingredients and customizable flavors. Whether you keep them simple or experiment with variations, these bars make an impressive treat for yourself or to share with others. Their chewy nougat, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate combine perfectly to create a sweet indulgence worth making at home.

Homemade Milky Ways

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Make your own delicious Homemade Milky Ways candy bars with a creamy nougat center, luscious caramel layer, and rich milk chocolate coating. These homemade treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and a fun DIY candy project.

• Author: Emily
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes + chilling time
• Yield: About 12 bars
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• For the Nougat:
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (60ml) light corn syrup
• ¼ cup (60ml) water
• 2 large egg whites, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Caramel:
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• For Coating:
• 2 cups (340g) milk chocolate chips or chopped milk chocolate

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Instructions

• Make the Nougat:
• In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat until it reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
• Meanwhile, beat egg whites in a mixer until stiff peaks form.
• Slowly pour the hot sugar syrup into the egg whites while mixing on low speed.
• Add vanilla extract and beat until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy. Set aside.
• Prepare the Caramel:
• In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
• Add sugar and cook, stirring frequently, until sugar dissolves and mixture turns golden brown.
• Slowly add heavy cream while stirring (mixture will bubble).
• Continue cooking until caramel reaches 245°F (118°C).
• Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt. Let cool slightly.
• Assemble the Bars:
• Line a rectangular pan with parchment paper. Spread the nougat evenly and let it set for 30 minutes.
• Pour the caramel over the nougat layer and spread evenly. Refrigerate until firm (about 1 hour).
• Cut into bar shapes.
• Coat with Chocolate:
• Melt milk chocolate in a double boiler or microwave.
• Dip each bar into the melted chocolate, coating completely. Place on parchment paper to set.
• Refrigerate until the chocolate hardens.

Notes

• Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control.
• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for longer freshness.
• For a twist, try dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate.