If you have a sweet tooth that craves a delightful blend of creamy caramel, crunchy peanuts, and a smooth white chocolate coating, then you are absolutely going to adore this Polar Bear Paws Candy Recipe. This nostalgic treat combines the perfect balance of textures and flavors, offering a rich, buttery caramel base studded with salty roasted peanuts, all wrapped in luscious white almond bark. Whether you’re looking to satisfy your own cravings or impress guests with an irresistible homemade candy, this recipe is a total winner that’s easy to master and sure to become a favorite go-to sweet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredient list simple but flavorful is key to making the Polar Bear Paws Candy Recipe a breeze to whip up. Each component plays a vital role, from the smooth caramel that melts in your mouth to the crunchy peanuts adding texture and the white almond bark providing a creamy, flawless finish and a snowy appearance perfect for presentation.
- 11 ounces caramel squares (1 bag): Choose soft caramels for that perfect melt and creaminess.
- 3 Tablespoons heavy whipping cream: Helps create that silky smooth caramel texture.
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the caramel mixture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting flavor that complements the caramel beautifully.
- 1 cup roasted salted peanuts: Adds that crunchy contrast and a slight salty kick to balance sweetness.
- 1 pound white almond bark: Melts easily and hardens with a glossy finish, perfect for coating.
- Sprinkles (optional): Adds a fun, festive touch and a pop of color to your Polar Bear Paws.
How to Make Polar Bear Paws Candy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Work Surface
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze while giving your Polar Bear Paws a smooth surface to set and chill on.
Step 2: Melt and Combine the Caramel Ingredients
In a medium pot over medium heat, gently combine the caramel squares, heavy whipping cream, butter, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously as everything melts down into a smooth, creamy caramel blend—this is the luscious heart of your candy.
Step 3: Fold in the Roasted Salted Peanuts
Add your roasted salted peanuts to the caramel mixture and stir well. This gives your candy a delightful crunch and a beautiful balance of sweet and savory that makes Polar Bear Paws so special.
Step 4: Spoon Onto Parchment
Using a tablespoon, drop mounds of the caramel and peanut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Space each mound adequately because the treats will set as individual bites packed with deliciousness.
Step 5: Chill Until Firm
Place the tray in the refrigerator or freezer for about an hour until these caramel-peanut clusters are completely set and firm to the touch—this makes dipping much easier in the next steps.
Step 6: Melt the White Almond Bark
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white almond bark by heating in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and creamy. This coating will give your Polar Bear Paws their signature sweet, creamy shell.
Step 7: Dip Each Candy into the White Chocolate
Carefully dip each set caramel-peanut cluster into the melted white almond bark, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. Tap off any excess chocolate so you get a thin, even coating that hardens gorgeously.
Step 8: Add Final Touches and Chill Again
Place the dipped candies back onto the parchment-lined sheet and sprinkle with any optional sprinkles before returning them to the fridge to set again. Once hardened, the Polar Bear Paws candies are ready to enjoy or package for gifting!
How to Serve Polar Bear Paws Candy Recipe
Garnishes
While sprinkles add a playful color boost, you can also experiment with crushed peppermint, shredded coconut, or even a light dusting of cocoa powder to give your Polar Bear Paws a creative twist and extra flavor dimension.
Side Dishes
These candies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or a creamy vanilla milkshake. They also serve as a sweet contrast alongside tart fruit platters or slightly salty snacks, making them a star on any dessert table.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your Polar Bear Paws on a festive platter lined with decorative paper or place them inside clear cellophane bags tied with colorful ribbons for charming party favors. For holidays, consider themed cupcake liners or festive tins that add instant gift appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Polar Bear Paws candy will keep nicely in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources to maintain their shape and texture.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead or save extras, they freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in wax paper and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you want a treat, just thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Reheating
Because these candies are best enjoyed at room temperature, avoid microwaving. Instead, let any chilled or frozen candies sit out for a bit until they soften slightly before serving to enjoy the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts besides peanuts?
Absolutely! While the traditional Polar Bear Paws Candy Recipe calls for roasted salted peanuts, you can substitute with almonds, cashews, or pecans to suit your preference. Just make sure they are roasted and salted for that signature flavor balance.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
You can make a dairy-free version by using dairy-free caramel, vegan butter, and a non-dairy whipping cream alternative. Also, use dairy-free white chocolate, such as some brands of almond bark made without milk ingredients.
How long does it take for the candies to set?
Typically, chilling for about an hour in the refrigerator or freezer is enough for the caramel nut mixture to firm up and after dipping in the white chocolate, another 30 minutes to an hour is recommended for the coating to harden.
Can I make these without a microwave?
Yes! You can melt the white almond bark using a double boiler on the stovetop instead of a microwave. This method allows gentle, even melting and reduces the chance of burning the chocolate.
What’s the best way to clean up after making these candies?
Since the caramel and chocolate can get sticky, soak your pots and utensils in hot soapy water right after use. Using parchment paper for the candies also makes cleanup simple by just tossing the paper away once you’re done.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Polar Bear Paws Candy Recipe enough if you want a nostalgic yet elegantly simple treat that dazzles on taste and presentation. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself to a homemade indulgence that feels special with every bite. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked on these sweet, crunchy delights in no time!
Print
Polar Bear Paws Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Polar Bear Paws Candy features creamy caramel mixed with roasted salted peanuts, coated in smooth white almond bark chocolate, and optionally decorated with sprinkles. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a sweet snack or festive dessert, combining rich caramel and nutty crunch with a luscious white chocolate coating.
Ingredients
Caramel Mixture
- 11 ounces caramel squares (1 bag)
- 3 Tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup roasted salted peanuts
Coating
- 1 pound white almond bark
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to use for setting the candies.
- Melt Caramel Mixture: In a medium pot over medium heat, combine the caramel squares, heavy whipping cream, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
- Add Peanuts: Stir in the roasted salted peanuts to evenly coat them in the caramel mixture.
- Form Candy Mounds: Using a tablespoon, spoon the caramel-peanut mixture onto the prepared parchment paper in individual mounds.
- Chill to Set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator or freezer for about 1 hour, or until the candy mounds are firm and set.
- Melt White Almond Bark: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white almond bark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
- Dip Candy Mounds: Dip each caramel peanut mound into the melted white chocolate, tapping off any excess chocolate to avoid heavy coating.
- Decorate and Set: Place the chocolate-coated candies back onto the parchment paper. If desired, immediately sprinkle with sprinkles for decoration. Allow them to set until the white chocolate hardens.
Notes
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease candy removal.
- To speed up setting, use the freezer instead of the refrigerator.
- Ensure stirring the caramel mixture constantly to avoid burning or sticking.
- White almond bark can be substituted with white chocolate chips but may require cautious melting to prevent hardness.
- Sprinkles are optional but add a festive touch and texture contrast.
