**Caramel Color: A Sweet and Versatile Ingredient**
Caramel color is a rich, amber-colored liquid or powder that is used to add color and flavor to a variety of foods and beverages. It is made by heating sugar until it caramelizes, which causes it to change color and develop a distinctive sweet, slightly bitter flavor. Caramel color can be used to add a golden hue to baked goods, sauces, and desserts, or to create a rich, dark color in beverages like cola and root beer. It can also be used to add a touch of sweetness and complexity to savory dishes, such as stews and braises. This article provides three recipes that showcase the versatility of caramel color: a classic caramel sauce, a decadent caramel cheesecake, and a refreshing caramel iced coffee. With its rich flavor and beautiful color, caramel color is a must-have ingredient for any home cook or baker.
CARAMEL COLORING
Provided by Nancy Harmon Jenkins
Categories quick, non-alcoholic drinks
Time 15m
Yield About 1/2 cup caramel coloring
Number Of Ingredients 3
Steps:
- Place brown sugar and 2 tablespoons water in a heavy pan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved and starts to take on a deep brown color. Do not burn the sugar.
- Add boiling water, little by little and stirring constantly. Be careful; the sugar syrup is very hot and can cause painful burns if it erupts over the pan. Continue cooking and stirring until the caramel has reduced somewhat and reached a slightly syrupy consistency.
Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 144, UnsaturatedFat 0 grams, Carbohydrate 37 grams, Protein 0 grams, Sodium 12 milligrams, Sugar 37 grams
CLASSIC CARAMEL CANDIES
For this recipe, you will need an accurate candy thermometer. You'll also need to cut three-inch square pieces of waxed paper or cellophane in which to wrap the caramels.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Dessert & Treats Recipes
Time 8h30m
Yield Makes approximately 120
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Lightly brush bottom and sides of a 9-by-13-inch rimmed baking sheet with oil. Line with parchment, leaving a 2-inch overhang on long sides; lightly brush parchment with oil.
- Bring cream, sugar, butter, and corn syrup to a boil in a large saucepan over high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat to medium-high; cook, stirring occasionally, until caramel reaches 248 degrees on a candy thermometer, about 15 minutes.
- Immediately remove caramel from heat, and stir in salt and vanilla. Pour caramel onto baking sheet, and let stand, uncovered, at room temperature at least 8 hours and up to 1 day.
- Lifting by parchment overhang, transfer caramel to a large cutting board. Cut into 3/4-by-1 1/4-inch pieces; wrap each piece in waxed paper or cellophane.
CARAMEL COLOR
Store in bottle and use as needed
Provided by Kathy Van Houten
Categories Other Desserts
Time 20m
Number Of Ingredients 2
Steps:
- 1. Combine sugar and 1/4 cup water in a heavy sauce pan. Bring to a boil,stirring to dissolve sugar completely. Boil until sugar colors-this is how you make caramel But don't stop here.Continue cooking until sugar turns black and starts to smoke.
- 2. Remove from heat and Carefully add 1/4 cup water,then return to heat and stir until liquid.Pour into glass jar and use as needed.
- 3. To clean pan and spoon,fill with water and boil until caramel has dissolved.
Tips:
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan: This will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the caramel from burning.
- Use a candy thermometer: This is the best way to ensure that the caramel reaches the correct temperature.
- Be patient: Making caramel takes time. Don't rush the process, or you'll end up with a burnt mess.
- Don't stir the caramel while it's cooking: This will cause the sugar to crystallize.
- If the caramel starts to crystallize, add a little bit of water and stir until it dissolves: Be careful not to add too much water, or the caramel will become too thin.
- Use caramel immediately: It will start to harden as it cools.
Conclusion:
Caramel is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of desserts and drinks. It's easy to make at home, but it does take a little bit of time and patience. With the right techniques, you can make a delicious caramel that will impress your friends and family. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try today!
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