How do get hard caramel out of a pan?

Hard caramel is a stubborn beast, but here's how to wrestle it out of your pan:

Before it hardens:

* Prevent it from sticking: A well-buttered or oiled pan helps prevent caramel from sticking. You can also use parchment paper or silicone baking mats, which can be lifted right out of the pan.

* Keep an eye on it: Don't let the caramel cook too long or it will become too hard to remove.

If it's already hardened:

* Warm it up: The most important step is to loosen the caramel. Place the pan in a sink filled with hot water for a few minutes. The warm water will help soften the caramel.

* Scrape and loosen: Use a metal spatula to scrape the caramel from the edges of the pan.

* Go for the leverage: If you're using a metal pan, you can try putting it on a stove burner on low heat for a few seconds to soften the caramel further. Be very careful not to burn it!

* Get creative: If the caramel is still stubbornly stuck, try one of these tricks:

* Ice water: Place the bottom of the pan in a bowl of ice water. The temperature shock can sometimes loosen the caramel.

* Soapy water: Add a few drops of dish soap to a bowl of warm water and soak the pan. This can help loosen the caramel.

* Baking soda: Sprinkle a little baking soda on the caramel and let it sit for a few minutes. The baking soda will react with the caramel and help to loosen it.

Remember: Be careful with hot pans and sharp utensils. If you have a heavy-duty pan, consider bringing it to a repair shop or asking a professional for help!