Casual home cooks usually don't undertake candymaking at home, and that's a shame since there are so many simple recipes, like these almond caramels, that actually take very little work. Only five ingredients make up these sweet little candies, and all you need in terms of equipment is a saucepan (which you probably already have), and a candy thermometer. Plus, these caramels will help break up the march of the cakes and cookies across your holiday dessert table. So, turn off the oven for a night, and cool your mitts with one of these soft, chewy delights. —The Editors