National Caramel Month

Categories:: Food & Beverage
Tags:: Dessert Food
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every October
Holiday emoji:: 🍬

National Caramel Month sweetens every October, inviting us to indulge in the rich, buttery delight of this versatile confection. From gooey sauces to chewy candies, caramel offers a taste of pure bliss. Dip into new recipes, support local confectioners, and share your favorite caramel creations all month long.

Deals
Platforms
Social
Hero
Timeline
FAQs
Importance
Celebrate

Expected National Caramel Month Deals

As National Caramel Month unfolds throughout October, expect a cascade of sweet promotions from major food brands and local bakeries. While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows that companies like Starbucks often feature caramel-themed beverages, while candy giants such as Hershey’s and Mars roll out special caramel editions of their popular bars. Gourmet shops like See’s Candies typically offer deals on their signature caramel collections, and grocery stores like Trader Joe’s often highlight seasonal caramel products. Keep an eye out for discounts on baking ingredients from brands like Kraft and Ghirardelli to create your own treats. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as October approaches.

Platform Guide for National Caramel Month

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalCaramelMonth. Share visually appealing photos or reels of your favorite caramel treats, from homemade desserts to store-bought delights.

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalCaramelMonth. Film short, engaging videos showcasing caramel recipes, taste tests, or creative ways to incorporate caramel into everyday snacks.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalCaramelMonth. Share family recipes, host a virtual caramel-making class, or poll your friends on their favorite caramel-infused desserts.

National Caramel Month Hero

Milton Hershey

The American confectioner and philanthropist who founded The Hershey Company in 1894. Hershey began his career making caramels, founding the Lancaster Caramel Company in 1886, which became highly successful. His mastery of caramel production laid the groundwork for his later pioneering work in chocolate manufacturing, making sweet treats accessible to the masses.

National Caramel Month timeline

May 2017

Caramel M&M's released

One of America's most beloved candies, M&M's, launched a caramel-filled version of their famous treats.

1950s

Invention of the caramel apple

A Kraft Foods employee, Dan Walker, was credited with this delicious caramel dunked apple treat.

1886

Lancaster Caramel Company began

Milton S. Hershey started shipping caramels throughout the United States after establishing his famous Lancaster Caramel Company

1650s

Early American candy makers

There's evidence dating back to the 1650s that early American settlers were making hard candies —paving the way for the future production of caramels.

1000 AD

Caramel first discovered

According to some accounts, it is believed that Ancient Arabs started making the first caramels by crystalizing sugar in boiling water.

National Caramel Month FAQs

When is National Caramel Month?

National Caramel Month 2026 runs throughout October, inviting everyone to enjoy this sweet confection.

How popular is caramel in the United States?

Caramel remains incredibly popular in the U.S., featuring prominently in candies, desserts, and beverages. It’s a top flavor choice for many consumers, especially during the fall season.

What are the most popular caramel treats?

Some of the most beloved caramel treats include caramel apples, chewy caramel candies, caramel sauce drizzled over ice cream, and caramel-filled chocolates. Salted caramel has also seen a significant rise in popularity.

What is the difference between caramel and butterscotch?

Caramel is traditionally made by heating sugar until it caramelizes, then adding cream, butter, and sometimes vanilla. Butterscotch, however, is made by cooking brown sugar and butter together, giving it a distinct, richer flavor profile.

National Caramel Month Activities

Learn how to make caramel
With only three basic ingredients, mastering a killer caramel recipe is easier than it seems. There are some excellent caramel recipes online, or you can opt to take a cooking class. You're sure to impress your family and friends the next time you show up with homemade caramels!
Eat a caramel apple
Few treats are as synonymous with the month of October as a caramel apple. Let your imagination run wild with the toppings you choose, although, we must say that the classic caramel and crushed peanut combination is a tried and true favorite.
Create a caramel-themed gift basket
Do you know anyone who is celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or other special occasion in the month of October? If so, why don't you deliver a caramel-themed gift basket as a thoughtful and festive gesture? Caramel popcorn, caramel cake, caramel sundae topping, etc. The possibilities are endless.

5 Sweet Things You Probably Never Knew About Caramel

A must-have candy
Caramel was a candy staple for many immigrants because of the simple, affordable ingredients used.
First comes caramel, then comes chocolate
Before Milton Hershey ever began producing his famous chocolate candy bars he was known for making delicious caramels.
There is a National Caramel Day
All of the fun isn't just reserved for the month of October. You can also celebrate National Caramel Day on April 5.
Caramel vs. caramelo
The English word for caramel is simply derived from the French and Spanish word "caramelo."
Not created equal
The cooking processes for caramel candies and the caramel used for apples differ.

Why We Love National Caramel Month

Caramel can take on many different forms
Melted caramel, for example, can be drizzled over the top of cakes, brownies, and cupcakes to take these delicious desserts to a completely new level. Plus, we can't forget to mention how delicious a caramel sundae is. Caramel also is a great addition to cake frosting, and we wouldn't want to leave out caramel fudge.
You only need three ingredients to make caramel
Yes, you read that correctly. Some of the most basic (and best) recipes for caramel call only for sugar, cream, and butter. The entire cooking process can be a little bit tricky, but with some practice, you're sure to get the hang of it.
Caramel is a fantastic treat
We can't forget to mention one of the main reasons to love caramel: It is absolutely delicious! Caramel is a satisfying treat any time of year, but there is just something about the rich and creamy taste that signifies the beginning of fall.