Caramel

Sucrose (primary component) Sweetener, Confectionery

Caramel Sweetener, Confectionery

At a Glance

  • Category Sweetener, Confectionery

The Forktionary Angle

"The Maillard reaction's sweet sibling, caramelization unlocks profound depth from simple sugar."

Definition

A confectionery product made by heating various sugars to a desired temperature, resulting in a rich, amber, sweet, and often buttery flavor.

Science Fact Caramelization occurs at temperatures above 320°F (160°C) for sucrose.
Storage Store homemade caramel sauce refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.
Usage Tip Don't stir once sugar starts dissolving to prevent crystallization.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Caramel are:

Sweet Buttery Toasty Slightly Bitter (darker caramel)

Chef’s Secret

A pinch of salt enhances caramel's sweetness and complexity, balancing any slight bitterness.

Best Substitutes

Maple syrup

for flavor, not texture
Ratio 1:1

Butterscotch

for sauce
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for ingredients like sugar, butter, and cream for quality sauces. Avoid high-fructose corn syrup if possible.

Recipes Using Caramel

Drop Cookies Preparation Course Number Of Servings

Taffy Apple Cakies

Kids will go crazy for these Taffy Apple Cakies! These irresistible cookies taste like miniature caramel apple cakes, bursting with sweet apple flavor and a gooey caramel drizzle. Easy to make and perfect for a fun baking project, these treats are guaranteed to be a family favorite. Get ready for warm, gooey deliciousness!

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Course 4 Hours Or Less Course Dinner Party

Tin Roof Chocolate Pie

Indulge in this irresistible Tin Roof Chocolate Pie! Layers of creamy chocolate, crunchy peanuts, and rich caramel create a decadent dessert that's easier to make than you think. This recipe delivers a classic flavor combination with a surprisingly simple process. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful weeknight treat! Get ready for the ultimate chocolate caramel experience!

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Sweet Bar Cookies Chocolate Dietary

Baboon Brownies

Decadent Baboon Brownies: A chewy, caramel-filled brownie masterpiece! This recipe is ridiculously easy to make and delivers intensely rich chocolate flavor with a gooey caramel center. Updated 10/23/09 for improved results. Get ready for brownie bliss!

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Sweet Taste Mood 60 Minutes Or Less Kid Friendly

100 000 Calorie Bars

Indulge in these rich and irresistible caramel nut chocolate bars! Layers of moist cake, melted caramels, crunchy nuts, and decadent chocolate chips create a truly unforgettable treat. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth (in moderation!).

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Spreads 15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Appetizers

Apple Caramel Dip

Indulge in this irresistible Apple Caramel Dip! Creamy cream cheese swirls with rich caramel and crunchy Skor bits create a symphony of flavors. Perfect for apples, pretzels, or even graham crackers! This easy 5-minute recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

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Time To Make Fruit 30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make

Apple Pie Caramel Apples

Recreate the magic of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory with this irresistible Apple Pie Caramel Apple recipe! Juicy apples are dipped in creamy caramel, rich white chocolate, and finished with a delightful cinnamon-sugar crunch. A perfect fall treat for parties, holidays, or a cozy night in!

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Low In Something Desserts Course Low In Something

Apple Caramel Sundae Tart

Indulge in this decadent Apple Caramel Sundae Tart! Inspired by a cherished family recipe, this stunning dessert features a buttery crust filled with creamy pudding, sweet caramel, and juicy apples. A delightful twist on classic apple pie, perfect for holidays or any special occasion. Get ready to impress!

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Main Ingredient Main Ingredient Course Pies And Tarts

Apple Pie 63

Indulge in this irresistible Apple Pie, a classic recipe adapted from Pillsbury! This recipe features a flaky, buttery crust perfectly complemented by a sweet and tart apple filling, all drizzled with a luscious caramel sauce. Perfect for dessert or a cozy autumn gathering.

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Main Ingredient Easy Main Ingredient Appetizers

Alouette Caramel Apple Brie Recipe

Warm up your autumn with this irresistible Alouette Caramel Apple Brie recipe! Imagine creamy, baked brie topped with sweet caramel and crisp, juicy apples – the perfect fall appetizer or holiday treat. This easy recipe comes together in minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Get ready to impress your guests with this delightful combination of flavors and textures!

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To Go Main Ingredient To Go Course

Baker's Chocolate Caramel Bars

Indulge in these decadent Baker's Secret Chocolate Caramel Bars! Inspired by an antique baking book, this recipe delivers a gooey, fudgy treat reminiscent of a classic revel bar. Warm and utterly irresistible, these bars are perfect for satisfying any sweet craving. Get ready for a taste of pure chocolate caramel heaven!

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Course Brownies Bar Cookies Course

Better Than Sex Brownies

Indulge in these decadent Better Than Sex Brownies, a family favorite passed down for generations! This recipe delivers intensely rich, gooey brownies with a surprising caramel and pecan swirl. Get ready for the ultimate chocolate experience – so good, it's better than sex!

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Carrots Equipment Time To Make Dinner Party

32K Caramel Cake

Indulge in the decadent 32K Caramel Carrot Cake! This irresistible layered cake boasts a moist carrot cake infused with rich caramel notes, topped with a creamy caramel frosting and a drizzled butterscotch-chocolate glaze. Is it a carrot cake with a caramel twist, or a caramel cake with a hidden carrot surprise? The answer is deliciously both! Perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth.

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Time To Make Dietary Low Carb Smoothies

Icee Frappe

Cool down with this refreshing Icee Frappe! A delicious twist on classic ice blends, this recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a hot day. Get ready for a vibrant, icy treat that's bursting with flavor!

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