Description
This whimsical Caramel Straw with Pastel Noodles recipe combines delicate, colorful egg noodles with a rich, homemade caramel sauce for a unique and visually delightful dessert. The pastel-colored noodles absorb the creamy caramel, resulting in a sticky, shiny treat garnished with fresh mint and shimmering edible glitter, perfect for an eye-catching and sweet finish to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Noodles and Garnish
- 6 oz egg noodles or other pasta (cooked al dente)
- Food coloring (pastel colors, such as pink, blue, yellow, or lavender)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
- Sprinkles or edible glitter (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Divide the noodles into small bowls and add a few drops of food coloring to each bowl to create pastel-colored noodles. Toss gently until the noodles are evenly coated in color. Set aside.
- Make the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the sugar and cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar melts and turns a golden amber color. Be careful not to burn the sugar. Once melted, slowly add the heavy cream while stirring—the mixture will bubble up. Stir until the caramel is smooth.
- Finish the Caramel: Add the butter to the caramel sauce and stir until melted. Add the vanilla extract and sea salt. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Remove from heat.
- Combine and Serve: Pour the caramel sauce over the prepared pastel noodles, tossing gently to coat. The noodles should absorb some of the caramel and become sticky and shiny.
- Garnish: Top the caramel noodles with fresh mint leaves, sprinkles, or edible glitter for an extra touch of color and sparkle. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Be cautious while melting sugar to avoid burning it, which can make the caramel bitter.
- Use food coloring sparingly to achieve soft pastel shades without coloring the noodles too intensely.
- Serve immediately as the caramel will harden when cooled.
- Fresh mint leaves add a refreshing contrast but can be omitted if not desired.
- Use edible glitter or sprinkles for a festive presentation, especially for parties or special occasions.
