Best 20 Carmels: Sweet and Decadent Twists on Classic Candy

Looking for a sweet treat that delivers that quintessential caramely goodness? Our selection of delicious caramels features rich, buttery flavors and melt-in-your-mouth textures. These homemade-style caramels are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family.

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Reviews

Enstrom Cream Carmels: Milk and Dark Chocolate Delight

These cream caramels are made by a fourth-generation family business in Colorado, where master caramel makers slow-cook fresh cream and pure cane sugar in copper kettles until golden perfection. The soft, buttery caramels are then enrobed in either rich milk or dark chocolate, before being expertly handcrafted into 30 perfectly portioned pieces. The entire batch, weighing in at 26 ounces, is certified Kosher Dairy by the Orthodox Union, ensuring a perfectly indulgent treat that's both delicious and worry-free.

Béquet Best Sellers Caramel

Crafted from scratch in small batches near Bozeman, Montana, every piece of Béquet Confections' premium caramel embodies the spirit of Robin Bequet's original creation. Born from a simple request from friends and family who craved her homemade caramel, this local business blossomed into the nation's premier gourmet caramel company, earning 12 coveted national awards along the way. Today, these expertly crafted caramels can be savored in over 2,600 specialty shops and leading grocery stores across the country, each bar sealed in a convenient 24-ounce resealable pouch that keeps the caramels fresh for months.

Gourmet Pecan Caramels

These homemade-style caramels offer a delightful combination of gooey sweetness and nutty crunch from pieces of pecan. With each 16oz bag providing a protein-rich treat, they're perfect for satisfying your caramel craving while getting a healthy boost of nuts. The gluten-free option makes them accessible for everyone to enjoy.

Annie B's Original Caramels

Annie B's Original Caramels have been crafting their signature copper-pot cooked confections since 1978. Each caramel is a perfectly measured 3 inches long and just over an ounce, meaning a whopping 110 pieces per box. While these homemade delights stay fresh for nine months at room temperature, we recommend chilling them in the main part of your fridge or freezer to extend their shelf life to an impressive year.

Big Picture Farm Goat Milk Caramels

Big Picture Farm crafts their caramels in Vermont using local, organic ingredients that are both non-GMO and fresh from the farm. Every bite of these goat milk caramels delivers a uniquely delicious taste experience.

Heavenly Caramels

Handcrafted in small batches, these rich butter caramels feature a soft, creamy texture that melts in your mouth with every bite. The classic butter flavor shines through in each golden caramel, while the individually wrapped 4.7oz bag ensures your treat stays fresh until you're ready to enjoy it. Whether you're savoring them as a special indulgence or using them to top your favorite dessert, these gourmet caramels deliver on every note.

Dorinda's Award-Winning Sea Salt Caramels

These caramels stand out from the crowd with their honey-infused sweetness and delicate balance of flavors. Each piece is crafted by hand using heavy cream instead of water, ensuring they stay fresh and non-sticky between bites. The dark chocolate shell is just the right vehicle for the light sea salt topping, creating a perfectly balanced treat that's been honored with multiple awards.

McCrea's Tapped Maple Caramels

Handcrafted in Boston, these organic maple caramels wrap every bite in pure New England syrup, with 17-19 individually wrapped pieces in each recyclable sleeve. The natural sweetness comes through perfectly in these gluten-free treats that make a thoughtful gift. The compostable packaging adds a touch of environmental consciousness to these autumn-inspired sweets.

Fran's Chocolates Smoked Salt Caramel

These artisan caramels combine rich chocolate, tender caramel, and unexpected sea salt flavors in two distinct varieties. The Gray Salt Caramels dip sweet milk chocolate in ocean-harvested salt, while the Smoked Salt Caramels transform deep milk chocolate with the smoky aroma of Welsh oak. Both earn Gold Awards as certified organic and fair-trade treats.

Classic Vanilla McCrea's Caramels

These handcrafted vanilla caramels offer the perfect balance of sweet and salty, with each piece measuring about two bites. The 5.5-ounce sleeve contains 17-19 individually wrapped caramels that are both delicious on their own and ideal for sharing. The natural ingredients and distinctive flavors make these caramels a delightful treat that's sure to please anyone who savors quality confections.

Heavenly Caramel Candy

This classic butter caramel is made from scratch with fresh cream and golden caramel, then slowly cooked until it reaches that just-right melt-in-your-mouth texture. Each 0.39oz piece is individually wrapped in a rich, creamy confection that's perfect for snacking or gourmet baking. The best part? It's crafted by J Morgan, a Utah-based company that's been perfecting these homemade-style caramels for over 50 years.

Annie B's Classic Caramels

These buttery caramels offer a chewy delight that's perfect for snacking or baking. Each piece weighs just over half an ounce and measures a satisfying three inches long. The milk-based treat comes wrapped in a protective box that keeps the caramels fresh for up to nine months at room temperature – or longer when stored in the refrigerator or freezer.

French Fleur de Sel Caramels

French fleur de sel sea salt gives these caramels a unique twist that caramel purists and sea salt enthusiasts will adore. The soft, creamy confections balance rich butter flavor with just the right amount of briny saltiness, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that's both indulgent and sophisticated. Each small rectangle packs a flavorful punch, making it perfect for sharing or savoring one at a time.

Carambar French Caramel Candy

Individually wrapped French caramels with a rich, thick texture that's a far cry from average American candy. These chewy gems deliver authentic caramel flavor without the artificial sweetness, perfect for dipping your toes into genuine French confectionery. Whether you're savoring them in the afternoon or finishing off a meal, these nostalgic treats will transport you back to a sunny French afternoon.

Werther's Original Carmel Hard Candy & Riesen Carmel Chocolates

A generous 30oz bag featuring individually wrapped Werther's Original Caramel Hard Candy and Riesen Carmel Chocolates, these classic confections make delightful additions to any candy dish. The combination of the traditional Werther's caramel and Riesen's double chocolate caramels provides a satisfying treat that's perfect for sharing or indulging in throughout the day.

Bee's Brothers Honey Caramel Box

These delicious honey caramels come in a convenient 3-inch square box, holding about eight perfectly sized treats. The natural kraft packaging makes it ideal for gift-giving, whether you're planning a wedding or just want to surprise someone special with a sweet treat. The smaller format makes it perfect for sharing or keeping on hand for those moments when you need a little something extra sweet in your day.

Bequet Soft Caramel Gift Bag

If you're looking for something special to satisfy your salt-and-sweet cravings, these handcrafted caramels are worth the hunt. Made with real Celtic Sea Salt and nothing artificial, each piece is a rich, velvety delight that lives up to its award-winning status.

Heavenly Caramels Vanilla Sea Salt

These individually wrapped caramels blend fresh cream and butter with pure vanilla and sea salt, creating a richly flavored treat that's perfect for sharing in the office, stuffing into stockings, or giving out during Halloween. The soft, buttery caramel perfectly balances the warm vanilla with a satisfying salty note, though it's important to note that these caramels contain nuts and dairy, making them not suitable for everyone's dietary needs.

Fran's Organic Dark Chocolate Gray Salt Caramels

These rich dark chocolate sea salt caramels earned a well-deserved Gold Award for their perfectly balanced sweetness and subtle gray salt finish. Made from organic ingredients with a Brittany grey salt harvest, each small piece delivers a luxurious treat that's both gluten-free and Fairtrade certified.

Hand-Crushed Espresso Carmels by Shotwell Candy Co.

Hand-crushed espresso caramels from Shotwell Candy Co. bring a rich coffee flavor to each small candy piece. The combination of roasted coffee, natural vanilla, and hand-crushed espresso beans creates an interesting contrast of flavors, with a finishing touch of sea salt that helps to balance the sweetness. Each 2.5oz pouch holds about 10 individually wrapped caramels, giving you a handy size to enjoy on your own or share with others.

Buyer's Guide

Caramels stand out as a delightful confection that combines buttery richness with subtle sweetness. The process of making caramels involves heating sugar with cream and butter until the sugar undergoes a color and flavor transformation, creating a complex, nuanced treat. Whether you're crafting homemade caramels or purchasing them, understanding the key aspects of this candy will help you make an informed choice.

Texture and Mouthfeel

The texture of caramels dictates their eating experience. Look for caramels with a smooth, creamy center that yields slightly when pressed, indicating adequate butter content for texture. High-quality caramels maintain their shape while offering a spreadable consistency that makes them ideal for layering or melting.

Caramelization Depth

The degree of caramelization affects both flavor intensity and color. Lighter caramels have a subtle, mildly sweet flavor profile, while deeply caramelized varieties develop rich, complex notes with hints of butterscotch and toffee. Consider your preferred intensity level when selecting caramels, as this aspect significantly influences the final taste experience.

Ingredients and Additives

Check the ingredient list for premium caramels that contain only basic ingredients like sugar, butter, and cream. Avoid products with artificial preservatives, excessive hydrogenated fats, or artificial flavors. Natural variations in color and texture are common in high-quality caramels made with simple ingredients.

Packing and Storage

Proper packaging protects caramels from moisture and air exposure, which can affect their texture and freshness. Vacuum-sealed or hermetically sealed containers preserve the best qualities of homemade caramels. Store them at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For longer-term storage, consider refrigeration or freezing, although this may slightly alter the texture.

FAQ

What is a caramelize candy?

A caramelize candy, commonly known as a caramal, is a type of confection made by heating sugar until it melts and turns golden brown. This process, called caramelization, creates a sweet, nutty-flavored candy that's often coated with cream or nuts.

The most well-known examples include caramels made from equal parts sugar and cream, which are typically wrapped individually in wax paper. These candies are chewy, slightly sweet, and often enjoyed with coffee or tea.

What are the main types of caramels?

The primary types of caramels include traditional caramels made with sugar, cream, and vanilla, and salted caramels that incorporate sea salt for extra flavor complexity. Some specialty varieties include almond caramels, which include ground almonds in the mixture, and chocolate caramels that combine caramel with chocolate coating.

Commercial caramel products range from individually wrapped pieces to bulk candies, with some modern iterations incorporating ingredients like matcha powder or sriracha for unique twists on the classic recipe.

How are caramel candies made?

Caramel candies begin by heating sugar to approximately 320°F (160°C), a process known as caramelization. The heated sugar mixture is then combined with cream and other ingredients like vanilla or salt. The mixture is poured into molds, cooled, and often coated with chocolate or nuts before packaging.

Home cooks can make caramel candies using a candy thermometer to monitor the sugar's temperature or, for simpler recipes, by boiling the sugar and cream mixture until it reaches the proper consistency. The key to successful caramel making is maintaining gentle heat and precise ingredient measurements.

Are caramel candies safe for everyone?

While caramel candies are generally safe for most people, individuals with diabetes or sugar sensitivities should consume them in moderation or consider sugar-free alternatives. People with nut allergies should carefully check ingredient lists before purchasing, as some caramel candies contain nut components.

The high sugar content in caramel candies makes them unsuitable as a regular part of a balanced diet. However, they can be enjoyed occasionally as a treat, especially when paired with coffee or tea, which helps balance their sweetness.

How do you store caramel candies?

Caramels should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Individual wrapped caramels can typically last up to two weeks when stored properly, while bulk candies may need to be consumed within a week for optimal freshness.

For maximum longevity, consider storing caramels in the refrigerator. They will last several weeks in the fridge and can be brought to room temperature before serving for optimal texture. Avoid freezing caramels, as the moisture content can cause them to become soggy upon thawing.

What makes good-quality caramel candy?

High-quality caramel candies feature a smooth texture with distinct layers of chewiness and creaminess. The flavor should balance sweetness with subtle notes from added ingredients like vanilla, salt, or nuts, without any artificial aftertaste. Premium caramels often have a fresh, natural taste that reflects high-quality ingredients.

Look for caramels that maintain their shape without excessive softening, and where the coating (if present) adheres well without cracking. The best caramel candies should provide a satisfying contrast between the soft center and the crunch of any added components like nuts or chocolate coating.