Charamuscas (Guanajuato Caramel Figures)

About this recipe

Charamuscas are artisanal hard-caramel sweets shaped like figures, mummies, skulls and twisted dolls, a tradition of the city of Guanajuato. The word charamusca comes from Old Spanish and means a twisted dry stick of firewood, in reference to the shape of the sweet. The figurative version emerged in the 19th century, when Guanajuato confectioners began moulding them into mummies in reference to the mummified bodies of the Santa Paula cemetery. They are made by cooking sugar with water and a touch of lime juice to the hard-crack stage, then shaping the paste by hand at speed before it sets. They are the most representative edible souvenir of Guanajuato, sold along the Callejón del Beso and at the gates of the Mummy Museum. Frequently asked questions What are charamuscas? They are handmade hard-caramel figures from Guanajuato, traditionally shaped like mummies, skulls and dolls. Where are charamuscas from? They originate in the city of Guanajuato, Mexico, where they are tied to the legend of the Mummies of the Santa Paula cemetery. What are charamuscas made of? Just sugar, water and a few drops of lime juice, cooked to the hard-crack stage and shaped by hand. Why are they shaped like mummies? They reference the famous Mummies of Guanajuato, exhumed in the 19th century and turned into a tourist symbol of the city. Where can you buy charamuscas? In the historic centre of Guanajuato, especially around the Callejón del Beso, the Jardín de la Unión and the Mummy Museum.

1. 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. 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. 3

   Leave to cool for 2-3 minutes until you can handle the caramel with oiled hands.

   
4. 4

   Take portions of caramel and quickly stretch and twist them to form figures.

   

   💡 Grease your hands well with oil.

5. 5

   Place the figures on a greased surface and leave to cool completely.