This is a lot of time standing over a hot stove but it doesn't require you to have evaporated milk on hand. 1/2 recipe of https://www.landolakes.com/recipe/16533/aunt-emily-s-soft-caramels/

• 1 c sugar
• 1/2 c packed brown sugar
• 1 stick butter
• 1/2 c milk
• 1/2 c cream
• 1/2 c light corn syrup
• 1/2 t vanilla

1. Prep an 8×8 pan by greasing or lining with parchment paper
2. Combine everything except vanilla in a heavy pan and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally (15-20 mins)
3. Continue cooking another 25-30 mins until it reaches 244F (forms a firm ball when dropped in ice water)
4. Stir in vanilla and pour into pan to cool

originally submitted by jes_p on Oct 08, 2020