Mom's Homemade Caramels

My mom made these often during Christmastime growing up and they are sweet and gooey and delicious! My kids LOVED them. They're a fun treat to add to Christmas plates for the neighbors or just for fun anytime.

Mom's Homemade Caramels

2 c sugar
1/2 c butter
2 c half and half, divided
3/4 c light corn syrup
1/2 c chopped nuts, optional

1. Butter square 8x8 baking pan, or similar sized other, or line with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. In medium sauce pan heat over medium heat sugar, butter, one cup half and half and corn syrup. Let boil, stirring constantly, five minutes (still over medium heat). Stir in other cup of half and half and continue stirring until candy thermometer reads 245, or soft ball.
3. Pour into buttered 8x8 pan and set out to cool. Once cooled, remove from pan and cut into desired pieces with sharp knife or pizza cutter. Wrap in pieces of parchment paper. Tie ends if you'd like to be fancy. Enjoy!

CHOCOLATE CARAMELS

Heat 2 squares unsweetened chocolate with sugar mixture.