Freeze Dried Caramels: A Tasty New Twist on a Classic Candy

The Appeal of Freeze Dried Caramels

Caramels are a classic candy that have been loved for generations. Their sweet, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them an irresistible treat. Recently, freeze dried caramels have been growing in popularity as an exciting new form of this candy.

What are Freeze Dried Caramels?

Freeze dried caramels are made by freeze drying regular caramels. The freeze drying process removes the moisture content from the caramels through sublimation. This preserves their texture and locks in the flavor while extending the shelf life significantly.

The resulting freeze dried caramels are lightweight, crispy, and dissolve instantly when they touch your tongue. It’s an unusual but appealing new twist on traditional chewy caramels that many people are finding highly enjoyable.

Benefits of Choosing Freeze Dried

There are several key reasons why someone may opt for freeze dried caramels over regular caramels:

• Extended shelf life - Regular caramels typically only last for a couple weeks. Freeze dried caramels can last for 1-2 years if stored properly.
• Lower shipping costs - The removal of moisture makes them much lighter, reducing shipping expenses.
• Unique texture - The crispy, dissolved-on-the-tongue texture sets them apart.
• Nutrient retention - Unlike cooking, the freeze drying process preserves more nutrients.
• Customization - Freeze dried items absorb surrounding flavors easily, allowing for creative flavor infusions.

Production of Freeze Dried Caramels

Producing quality freeze dried caramels relies upon controlling precise conditions and temperatures during processing:

1. Start with a quality caramel recipe cooked to the proper consistency.
2. Pour caramel into molds to set up, typically overnight in a commercial cooler.
3. Cut into pieces and load onto drying trays in a single layer, no overlap.
4. Place trays into freeze dryer and begin freeze drying cycle, which removes 98-99% of moisture.
5. Complete the drying process and check for proper moisture levels.
6. Package freeze dried caramels immediately into food-grade packaging.

For best results, commercial grade freeze dryers are ideal for candy production. Home freeze dryers like the Harvest Right Freeze Dryer can also produce small batches nicely.

Storing Your Freeze Dried Treats

Proper storage is essential for preserving your freeze dried caramels. Follow these tips:

• Store in air-tight, food grade packaging like mason jars or vacuum seal bags.
• Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
• If humidity compromises crispness, place packs of desiccant in storage containers.
• For longest shelf life, store in freezer and avoid temperature fluctuations.

Enjoying Your Caramels

Part of the fun of freeze dried caramels is discovering the unique ways their transformed texture changes the eating experience!

Direct Snacking

The most popular way to enjoy them is snacking on them straight from the package! Their disappearance-on-the-tongue texture prompts you to reach for another crispy piece.

Adding to Desserts

Sprinkle these shelf-stable caramels on top of ice cream, custards, or cupcakes right before serving. Their rapid dissolution coats the dish below with a quick caramel blast.

Flavor Infusions

Get creative with custom caramel flavors! Add freeze dried fruit like strawberries or pineapple to infuse tantalizing fruit flavors. Powdered peanut butter or cocoa blends also pair nicely.

However you choose to savor them, freeze dried caramels offer a tasty new spin on a classic candy. Their extended shelf life makes them perfect for gourmet food gifts. Let these crispy, melt-in-your-mouth morsels delight your tastebuds!

FAQs

How long do freeze dried caramels last?

Properly stored in an air-tight container in the freezer, freeze dried caramels can last 1-2 years. If not stored optimally, they may last a few months at room temperature.

Can you eat freeze dried caramels straight from the package?

Absolutely! Snacking on them crisp and plain is one of the most popular ways to enjoy their unique dissolved-on-the-tongue texture.

What is the texture of freeze dried caramels like?

Freeze dried caramels are dry and crispy. When placed in the mouth, they dissolve almost instantly, coating your tastebuds with the sweet flavor of caramel.

What can you use freeze dried caramels for?

Sprinkle freeze dried caramel pieces onto desserts like ice cream sundaes for an instant blast of flavor. You can also craft custom caramel flavors by infusing fruits, nut butters, cocoa, and more during the freeze drying process.