Caramel (/ˈkærəmɛl/ or /ˈkɑːrməl/) is a beige to dark-brown confectionery product made by heating a variety of sugars. It can be used as a flavoring in puddings and desserts, as a filling in bonbons, or as a topping for ice cream and custard.
The process of caramelization consists of heating sugar slowly to around 340°F (170°C). As the sugar heats, the molecules break down and re-form into compounds with a characteristic color and flavor.