There are many confections available to satisfy a sweet tooth, but one that melts the hearts of many is rich, creamy caramel. Both young and old adore this treat that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other ingredients to create an extra-delicious delight.
Caramel is a candy staple in the United States and abroad, but few people know the interesting history and fascinating facts that make this treat so unique. Check out these caramel facts that will make you love this sweet treat even more:
1. People have enjoyed caramels for hundreds of years. The first types of caramels were hard candies that date back to the 17th century. In America, the settlers cooked sugar and water together to make these sweet treats. Caramels were a candy staple for many years because the ingredients were affordable, they were easy to make at home and they had a long shelf life.
2. The word “caramel” is derived from “caramelo.” The word caramel was first recorded in the English language in 1725. Its roots are from the French and Spanish word “caramelo.”
3. Before chocolate, Milton Hershey produced caramels. In 1886, Milton Hershey began his first successful confectionery business. The Lancaster Caramel Company shipped caramels across the U.S. and to Europe, causing the candy’s popularity to skyrocket.
The Lancaster Caramel Company established Hershey’s reputation in the confectionery industry and provided the foundation for the launch of The Hershey Company, which first produced sweet chocolate as a coating for the caramels before creating the iconic Hershey’s Milk Chocolate bar. Fast forward over a century, and the original recipe is reimagined with new Lancaster Caramel Soft Cremes. These new caramels are carefully crafted to ensure a rich, creamy, melt-in-your mouth sensation. Available in caramel, caramel and vanilla, and raspberry and vanilla flavors, these new confections offer a modern twist on a classic and timeless treat.
4. Caramel’s main ingredients are surprisingly simple. Today, caramel has two main ingredients: milk and sugar. When heated together to a high temperature, the milk helps make the caramel soft and creamy.