Polar Bear Paws

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There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about Polar Bear Paws. I remember the first time I bit into one—soft, chewy caramel laced with crunchy peanuts, all cloaked in a smooth, snowy layer of white chocolate. It’s like the perfect storm of salty, sweet, creamy, and crunchy. I love making these during the holidays, but honestly, they’re just too good to limit to one season. They’re surprisingly easy to whip up and always steal the show on any dessert tray.

What makes this treat so special for me is how quickly it comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Unlike more complicated confections, Polar Bear Paws don’t require a candy thermometer or fancy ingredients. With just a few pantry staples and a bit of melting and mixing, you end up with a treat that looks bakery-worthy and tastes even better. Whether you’re gifting them, sharing with guests, or just treating yourself, these little clusters never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Polar Bear Paws Recipe

These treats are pure candy magic without the fuss. They require no baking, are great for making in large batches, and have the ideal balance of sweet white chocolate, gooey caramel, and salty peanuts. Whether you’re short on time or just want a foolproof crowd-pleaser, Polar Bear Paws are your go-to.

Do I Have to Use White Chocolate?

White chocolate is the signature element that gives Polar Bear Paws their “polar” look, but it’s more than just aesthetics. The creamy sweetness pairs beautifully with the salted peanuts and rich caramel. That said, if white chocolate isn’t your thing, you could substitute it with milk or dark chocolate for a twist—but keep in mind, it’ll change the name and flavor profile quite a bit.

Substitution Options for Polar Bear Paws

• Peanuts: Swap them out with cashews, almonds, or pecans for a different nutty twist.
• Caramel: If you can’t find pre-made caramels, make your own or use dulce de leche for a softer, spreadable option.
• White chocolate: Candy coating, almond bark, or even vanilla chips can work in place of traditional white chocolate chips.
• Sea salt: A light sprinkle on top of the finished candy adds a gourmet touch and enhances flavor, but it’s totally optional.

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Ingredients for This Polar Bear Paws Recipe

• White chocolate chips or almond bark – This is the sweet, creamy outer shell that gives Polar Bear Paws their signature snowy look and rich flavor.
• Caramel candies – Melted down to create the gooey, chewy base that binds the candy together.
• Heavy cream – Softens the caramels and helps create a smooth, luscious texture that’s easy to bite into.
• Salted peanuts – Provide a savory crunch and balance out the sweetness of the chocolate and caramel.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps the caramel melt evenly.
• Sea salt (optional) – A light sprinkle enhances the flavor and gives a gourmet finish.

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Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Mixture

Unwrap the caramel candies and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Add the butter and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes total. Be careful not to overheat, or the caramel can scorch.

Step 2: Mix in the Peanuts

Once the caramel mixture is smooth and creamy, stir in the salted peanuts. Mix well to ensure all peanuts are coated evenly in the caramel. Let it cool for about 5 minutes so the mixture can slightly firm up before scooping.

Step 3: Scoop Clusters onto Parchment

Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop small clusters of the caramel-peanut mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave space between each cluster. Let them sit at room temperature until they begin to set, about 15–20 minutes, or refrigerate for quicker results.

Step 4: Melt the White Chocolate

In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips or almond bark in 30-second increments, stirring each time, until smooth and fully melted. You can also use a double boiler if preferred.

Step 5: Coat the Clusters

Dip each caramel-peanut cluster into the melted white chocolate using a fork or dipping tool, or simply spoon the chocolate over the top for a more rustic look. Make sure the entire cluster is coated.

Step 6: Let Them Set

Place the coated clusters back onto the parchment-lined sheet. Let them set completely at room temperature or pop them into the fridge for faster setting.

Step 7: Optional Finishing Touch

If you like a little extra flair, sprinkle a few flakes of sea salt on top of the wet white chocolate before it sets.

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How Long to Prepare the Polar Bear Paws Recipe

Prep Time: Making Polar Bear Paws is a breeze, with most of your time spent melting and mixing. The hands-on prep takes around 15–20 minutes, including melting caramels and stirring in the peanuts. If you’re working at a relaxed pace or doubling the batch, give yourself a bit more time.

Setting Time: After forming the clusters and coating them in white chocolate, you’ll need about 20–30 minutes for them to fully set at room temperature. To speed things up, pop them into the fridge for 10–15 minutes. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 45 minutes from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Polar Bear Paws

• Use high-quality white chocolate to avoid clumping or burning while melting.
• Stir the caramel frequently while microwaving to keep it smooth and prevent scorching.
• Let the caramel cool slightly before scooping to avoid runny clusters.
• Use parchment paper to make cleanup easier and to prevent sticking.
• Dip quickly when coating with white chocolate to keep the caramel from softening again.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overheating the caramel – this can cause it to harden or burn quickly.
• Using wet utensils – any water can seize the melted chocolate and ruin the texture.
• Not letting the clusters cool before coating – warm caramel can melt the white chocolate, making a messy coating.
• Skipping the salt if using unsalted peanuts – it throws off the sweet-salty balance.
• Rushing the setting process – placing them in a hot area or stacking too early can cause smearing or sticking.

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What to Serve With Polar Bear Paws?

1. Hot Chocolate

A mug of creamy hot cocoa makes these candies feel even more indulgent, especially during the holidays.

2. Coffee or Espresso

The bitterness of coffee balances the sweet caramel and white chocolate perfectly.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

Crumble a Polar Bear Paw over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert upgrade.

4. Fresh Berries

The tartness of raspberries or strawberries cuts through the richness of the candy beautifully.

5. Cheese Board

Believe it or not, these make a fun sweet contrast on a holiday cheese or snack board.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Once fully set, store Polar Bear Paws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent the chocolate from softening.

Refrigeration: If your kitchen runs warm, store them in the refrigerator. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition (per piece, approx.)

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 95mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Polar Bear Paws stay fresh?

They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for about a week, but they last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Absolutely! These are a perfect make-ahead treat since they store well and taste even better the next day.

What kind of peanuts work best?

Salted roasted peanuts give the best balance of flavor and crunch. Avoid raw or unsalted unless adding salt separately.

Can I use homemade caramel?

Yes, homemade caramel works beautifully and adds an extra layer of richness, just make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape.

How do I fix seized white chocolate?

If your white chocolate seizes, try stirring in a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening to loosen it up again.

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Conclusion

Polar Bear Paws are a delightful mix of ease and indulgence. With their smooth white chocolate shell, gooey caramel center, and the satisfying crunch of peanuts, they strike that perfect balance of salty and sweet. Whether you’re looking to fill your holiday tins, whip up a quick gift, or satisfy a craving, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. They’re simple to make, customizable, and most importantly—absolutely irresistible.

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