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.
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.
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.
