Special Offer for Caramel Orders
October 21, 2006
11:44 a.m., MT

Uncle Warren caught me a little flat-footed with his enthusiastic ad for my caramels in this week's podcast; I'd hoped to have a separate page up, with pictures and more information about how I make my caramels, and yummy things to do with them other than just eating them. I still don't have time to do all it'll take to set up that page, so instead I'll say just a few things here. A version of that page is now up, so please visit it for current ordering information. Thank you!

The ingredients are simple: butter; cream; sugar; corn syrup (not the high fructose kind); and vanilla are all it takes to make delicious caramels. Caramels with pecans have these additional ingredients: roasted buttered pecans (which I also make myself) and sea salt. I need to do a separate entry on the importance of salt in desserts, but for now I'll just say that although it might sound weird to you, the sea salt cuts some of the sweetness of the caramel, adds some flavor to the pecans, and generally adds brightness to the mix of flavors in the candy.

The secret to making caramels is in the cooking, which takes a while, and careful attention. I've found that a simple, additional step to the basic recipe deepens the flavor of my caramels—but it too isn't a fast process. Good things can't be rushed.

While my caramels are wonderful eaten as is, you can use them as part of other desserts. Warmed carefully in the microwave—on low power and in 10-s bursts so the caramel isn't scorched—a few caramels become a quick and tasty ice cream topping (use the boy variety for a near-instant caramel sundae), or a dipping sauce for apple slices or bananas. It can be drizzled over apple pies, doughnuts, or cakes to add another delicious flavor dimension to them. Swirl some into brownie batter before baking for easy caramel brownies. I'm sure you can think of other possibilities, too—if you want to make suggestions in the comments here, I'll happily add them to the caramel page once it's created and credit you.

Lest you think that Warren was unduly influenced by the business aspects of our deal, here's what another happy caramel customer said after sampling his order:

The caramels are DELICIOUS, WONDERFUL, FANTASTIC!! Absolutely the
second best thing a woman has ever given me to put in my mouth!
–Dennis Lee Wilson

Thanks, Dennis—I appreciate both the endorsement and the laugh your comments brought me!

To celebrate the successful launch of this endeavor—and also to help get feedback on possible new product lines—I have a special offer for anyone who orders caramels this week, 10/21-10/28. In addition to your delicious caramels, you'll receive free a sample of your choice from these items:
apple flavored caramels (instant caramel apple in a delectable bit of creamy candy!);

spiced glazed almonds—sweet and with a subtle hit of heat from cinnamon and cayenne pepper; or

pecan brittle—lightly roasted pecans are chopped and added to light, buttery candy for a result that far outshines peanut brittle (sorry to say so, Jim, but it's true). If you can't decide on just one sample, I'd be delighted to toss in additional samples for just $1 more each. Sample sizes will vary, but will be enough for you to enjoy and to share with a friend—unless you've a big sweet tooth!

For your convenience, here's the ordering information and procedure again:

One pound of girl caramels (plain) is $15, shipping included.

One pound of boy caramels (with salted buttered pecans) is $20, shipping included.

One pound of mixed caramels—half boys, half girls—is $18, shipping included.

Payment methods accepted are: cash; payee blank money order; and PayPal. I will barter for goods in exchange for caramels. Please email me for the PayPal eddress to use, if you wish to barter, or have questions or special requests. Encryption strongly preferred, but not necessary.

Past customers in good standing will have orders shipped in advance of receiving snailed payments. Orders will be shipped by USPS unless you specify that you want me to use a private shipper. My preference is to use DHL for that option.

To order your caramels, please send me an email with the following information in it:

* quantity of caramels desired
* variety of caramel desired
* shipping address
* shipping method, if you want DHL
* any special conditions previously agreed upon
* the variety of sample(s) you want
* payment method and total payment

Again, thank you all for your past business, and your encouragement. I hope to be making caramels for you soon!

Program note: This weekend (10/21-22) I'm going to be away from my computer more than usual, so if you don't get a prompt response to your order or inquiry, don't despair. If you haven't received a reply by Monday, please resend your message.

Sunni

Comments: 3 people have contributed to the conversation

On Saturday, October 21st, at approximately 4:48 p.m. Mountain time, Uncle Warren said:

Uncle Warren caught me a little flat-footed with his enthusiastic ad for my caramels in this week's podcast ...

Oops - sorry, it's yer own fault, they're so darn tasty.

On Monday, October 23rd, at approximately 9:46 a.m. Mountain time, Erin said:

I can attest that they are hands-down the BEST caramels EVER.

On Monday, October 23rd, at approximately 4:38 p.m. Mountain time, Ian Scott said:

Absolutely agree with Erin.

And I wish I had thought up the appropriate description before Dennis Wilson did.

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