National Caramel Day

National Caramel Day is a celebration of the beloved sweet treat, caramel. This gooey, buttery confection is made by heating sugar until it melts and caramelizes, resulting in its signature golden hue and rich flavor. It’s a day to indulge in caramel candies, desserts, and other caramel-infused delights.

Quick Facts

When is it?: April 5th
Tagged as: Food, Dessert, Sweet Treats
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalCaramelDay
When was it founded?: Gained popularity online around 2016
Who founded it?: Unknown, but its origins trace back to ancient caramel-making practices.

History of National Caramel Day

The history of caramel dates back to around 1000 A.D., when Arabs discovered how to crystallize sugar into hard candies. By the mid-1600s, caramel was being made in the Americas using kettles. In 1886, Milton S. Hershey founded the Lancaster Caramel Company, which later paved the way for his chocolate empire. Over time, caramel evolved into the soft and chewy treat we know today.

Timeline

1000 A.D.: Arabs create early forms of caramel by boiling sugar.
1650s: Hard caramel candies are made in North America.
1886: Milton S. Hershey establishes the Lancaster Caramel Company.
1950s: Kraft Foods popularizes caramel apples.
1977: French pastry chef Henri le Roux introduces salted caramels.

Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	April 5	Saturday
2026	April 5	Sunday
2027	April 5	Monday
2028	April 5	Wednesday
2029	April 5	Thursday
2030	April 5	Friday

Observed

National Caramel Day is observed worldwide by indulging in caramel treats like candies, popcorn, lattes, and desserts. Many people also try making homemade caramel or hosting caramel-themed parties.

Fun Facts About Caramel

The word “caramel” comes from the Latin cannamellis, meaning “sugar cane honey.”
Cube-shaped Kraft caramels were first made in the U.S. in 1933.
Salted caramels became popular in France in the late 1970s.
Caramel apples were invented by Vito Raimondi in the 1960s using a machine.

Quiz

What year was the Lancaster Caramel Company founded?
What is the origin of the word “caramel”?
When is National Caramel Day celebrated?

(Answers:)

1886
Latin cannamellis
April 5th

FAQs

Q: How do you make caramel?
A: Caramel is made by heating sugar until it melts and turns golden brown, often with added butter or cream for texture and flavor.

Q: What are some popular ways to enjoy caramel?
A: Popular treats include caramel apples, candies, sauces for desserts, and caramel-infused drinks like lattes.

Q: Is there a difference between toffee and caramel?
A: Yes! Toffee is cooked longer than caramel, resulting in a harder texture.

Importance of National Caramel Day

This day highlights the cultural and culinary significance of caramel. It encourages creativity in cooking and provides an opportunity to connect with loved ones through shared indulgence.