Caramel Twists & Pairings: 3 Variations of Caramel to Try

 

Consumers’ flavor preferences are divided between two trends. One based on comforting and nostalgic, more traditional flavors and the other on novelty, experimentation and intensity. These are not mutually exclusive; consumers will migrate between the two based on individual needs and external factors, shared Chiara Calcagnini and Eva Teyssier with Barry Callebaut in an article written for RCI’s Kettle Talk magazine.

Experimental: Caramel with a Twist

Consumers love to try out new flavor combinations. A caramel flavor with a twist can provide enough of a familiar ground to persuade them to take the plunge towards novelty flavors or ingredients. Twists also bring new life and interest to offerings that may otherwise be overlooked because they’ve been seen so many times before.

Twists and pairings

Caramel pairs wonderfully with a variety of different inclusions to create multi-sensorial experiences. Combinations with healthier inclusions like seeds, nuts and dried fruits are especially appealing for consumers. All sorts of caramel twists including combinations with cocktail-based flavors, rosemary and sea salt, cocoa nibs, etc. can bring your caramel creations to a next level and create an elevated and premium perception. Caramel also has incredible potential to satisfy various eating occasions and consumer needs. For example, caramel and caramel products are the perfect solution for the rising trend of on-the-go consumer snacking.

In the spirit of exploring new and creative twists on caramel, we’re sharing 3 variations of caramel flavors to try this fall.

Photo credit: Shotwell Candy Co.

Old Fashioned Cocktail Caramels

If a caramel walked into a bar—a swanky, retro bar—it might walk out tasting like Shotwell Candy Co.’s “Old Fashioned” Cocktail Caramels. Described as “buttery soft caramel, infused with aromatic bitters, barrel-aged bourbon, and orange extract.”

Photo credit: King Arthur Baking Company

Salted Rosemary Caramel Sauce

For herbaceous twist on your class caramel recipe, add a hint of fresh rosemary. This recipe for salted rosemary caramel sauce calls for boiled apple cider to add a more refined flavor and also recommends straining the caramel to remove any remaining pieces of rosemary.

Sweet tip: Speaking of caramel sauce, if you have a great caramel recipe and aren’t currently making caramel sauce, this could be a natural variation which would give your customers another way to enjoy your caramel.

Photo credit: Love & Olive Oil

Dark Chocolate Cocoa Nib Caramels

Especially if you already have chocolate caramels in your wheelhouse, adding cocoa nibs is sure to elevate your recipe with welcome texture and crunch elements. Check out this recipe from Love & Olive Oil.

Adding a twist to your caramel creations can elevate them from ordinary to interesting and even trendy, especially for younger consumers.  If you’re interested in learning more about the science of crafting perfect caramels, click here to get notified when registration opens for RCI’s Caramels, Toffees & Brittles education course in Orlando, Florida February 21-23, 2023.

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