Caramel topping - proof that sometimes simple things really are the best

The main ingredient of caramel topping, caramel, is an extremely simple treat; in principle, the basic version requires only sugar of your choice, which is then slowly heated to around 170 °C. The essence of this process, also known as caramelisation, is that the molecules break down, or are reformed, resulting in the smell, colour and texture characteristic of caramel.

Of course, any ingredients can then be added to the caramel to create new confectionery - from caramel candies and pralines to caramel cake. One of the options is, of course, caramel topping, which is a versatile and, above all, delicious addition to many dishes ...

Interesting facts about caramel

The origins of caramel "production" date back to the 17th century, when new settlers in what is now the USA discovered by chance how delicious the result of heating sugar could be. Additional advantages of this newly discovered treat were that it was easy to make at home, the ingredients were readily available and cheap, and it required no special storage - caramel has a very long shelf life. There is also an interesting story to be told about the etymology of the word ''caramel'' itself; one interpretation is that it is derived from the Arabic word kora-mochalla, meaning ''ball of sweetness'' - a name that certainly more than adequately captures the essence of caramel, whose popularity has endured to the present day. This is also evidenced by the fact that American caramel lovers also celebrate a special holiday, National Caramel Day, on 5 April each year. On this day, special events are also organised in some places where the ''guest of honour'' is none other than our ''sweet ball'' and the many desserts made from it.

Where can we use caramel topping?

The use of caramel as a main ingredient in other confectionery products dates back a little further, to around 1850, when caramel candies were "invented". However, new ideas about how else caramel could be used quickly emerged and its popularity grew at an express speed. One of the most popular caramel-based products today is certainly the caramel topping, which is also gaining popularity in our region. You can use it in any number of ways, and the only limit is your imagination, but we have nevertheless prepared some ideas for the most delicious combinations that can be created with the help of caramel topping. These ideas should serve only as a base, which you can then build on according to your own preferences and tastes.

• Pancakes with caramel topping

Caramel topping can be used simply as a topping to pour over pancakes that you have previously filled with your favourite filling, or as the main filling to bring out the flavour even more. If you use a good quality topping, you will certainly not miss the other extras. You can make the pancakes according to the classic recipe or opt for the so-called American pancakes instead, which makes this combination particularly tasty. American pancakes are generally slightly smaller in size but, on the other hand, they are thicker than the pancakes that are common in this country and, above all, fluffier. You can also mix in a few blueberries when making the pancakes. Pancakes prepared in this way, combined with a caramel topping, will certainly not leave your taste buds indifferent.

• Caramel topping combined with fresh fruit

If you want a slightly healthier but still tasty dessert, you can cut your favourite fruit into smaller pieces and then top them with caramel topping, or add a little chocolate topping if you like. Combining the taste of chocolate with the flavour of caramel is a sure way to success. The base of this dessert is fresh fruit, so you don''t have to worry too much about calories and can enjoy it without feeling guilty.

• Classic: Ice cream with caramel topping

One of the most popular ways to use caramel topping is certainly in combination with ice cream. Vanilla ice cream is the most common, but you don''t have to limit yourself. You may not feel like it, but caramel also likes the company of fruity flavours, such as blueberry ice cream or wild berry ice cream. Experiment and discover your favourite combination ...

We''re sure you''ll have plenty of ideas for your next dinner on 5 April...