Tuesday, August 13, 2024

Caramel Twists & Pairings: 3 Variations of Caramel to Try

 

Consumers generally fall into two flavor camps: one that loves classic, comforting tastes and another that seeks out new, adventurous experiences. These preferences aren't fixed; people often switch between the two based on their mood or circumstances.

Experimental: Caramel with a Twist

Consumers love trying new flavor combinations, and adding a twist to classic caramel can make it more exciting and appealing. These twists can make familiar flavors feel fresh and interesting, encouraging people to explore new options they might otherwise overlook.

Twists and pairings

Caramel works well with a variety of inclusions to create multi-sensory experience. Healthier add-ins like seeds, nuts, and dried fruits are particularly popular. You can also experiment with more adventurous pairings, such as cocktail-inspired flavors, rosemary and sea salt, or cocoa nibs, to elevate your caramel creations and give them a 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.”

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 all things caramel, attend RCI’s Fall Regional Conference September 16-18, 2024. Experience an EduTour at Bomboy's Home Made Candy, plus more education and demonstrations to help you refine your caramel recipes and develop new and unique varieties. Additionally, tour two Baltimore-based candy companies and take part in a hands-on caramel apple demonstration. Register now.

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.