DessertsMedium

Charamuscas (Guanajuato Caramel Figures)

Name: Charamuscas (Guanajuato Caramel Figures)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 500 g Sugar; 200 ml Water; 1 tbsp Lemon juice; 1 tsp Vegetable oil for greasing

40 min (10 prep + 30 cook) Medium 20 servings Guanajuato

Edmond Bojalil

Recetas Mexas

Published: 24 Mar 2026 · Updated: 16 Apr 2026

Caramel sweets shaped into figures, a Guanajuato tradition.

About this recipe

Artisanal caramel sweets shaped into figures, a Guanajuato tradition linked to the famous mummies.

History & Origin

Charamuscas are one of the most singular sweets in Mexican confectionery, originating from Guanajuato, inextricably linked to the famous Mummies of Guanajuato. They evolved into caramel figures shaped like mummies, skulls and skeletons referencing naturally mummified bodies discovered in the municipal cemetery in the 19th century. Sugar is cooked with water and lemon until reaching caramel stage, then moulded by hand with great speed and dexterity.

Estimated cost

£2.50

Total cost

£0.13

Per serving

* Approximate prices based on UK supermarkets

Nutritional information per serving

Calories

Protein

20g

Carbohydrates

Fat

Fibre

5mg

Sodium

* Approximate values. May vary depending on ingredients used.

Method

1
In a heavy-bottomed pan, mix the sugar with the water and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat without stirring.
💡 Do not stir the mixture once it begins to boil.
2
Let the caramel reach a dark amber colour and 160°C. Remove from heat.
💡 Watch carefully: from amber to burnt is a matter of seconds.
3
Leave to cool for 2-3 minutes until you can handle the caramel with oiled hands.
4
Take portions of caramel and quickly stretch and twist them to form figures.
💡 Grease your hands well with oil.
5
Place the figures on a greased surface and leave to cool completely.