caramelle

Caramelle is the Italian term for candies or sweets. It denotes a broad category of confectionery products intended for direct consumption, rather than baked goods. The word can refer to hard candies, soft chews, gummies, jellies, caramels, nougats, fondants, and chocolate-coated bites. In everyday Italian usage, caramelle are typically small, portable treats sold in shops and supermarkets.

Most caramelle rely on sugar as a primary ingredient, combined with glucose syrup, water, and flavorings. The mixture is cooked to a specific temperature to achieve the desired texture, then cooled and formed by pouring into molds, rolling, or coating. Colorings and aromas—natural or artificial—are common. Some varieties include dairy, nuts, or fruit inclusions, and production ranges from artisanal batch methods to automated industrial processes.

Sugar confections have deep roots in Europe and the Mediterranean. In Italy, caramelle developed alongside other sweets and gained mass appeal with advances in confectionery technology during the 19th and 20th centuries. Today they are widely distributed, with regional specialties and holiday assortments, and are commonly given as gifts or carried as personal treats.

Because of their high sugar content, caramelle are typically eaten in moderation, especially by children. In regulated markets, ingredient lists, allergen information, and nutritional declarations are required, and labeling may vary by country.