Briess Caramel 80L Malt 1 lb

Briess Caramel Malt 80L is a dark crystal malt that delivers rich caramel sweetness, deep amber/reddish color, and complex layers of dark fruit and toasted sugar character. Produced through a specialized stewing and roasting process that converts starches into sugars within the kernel before caramelization, this malt develops flavors of dark toffee, caramelized sugar, raisin, fig, and light molasses. Its combination of sweetness, color, and complexity makes it a valuable ingredient for creating malt-forward beers with depth and character.

In the brewing process, Caramel 80L contributes unfermentable dextrins that enhance body, mouthfeel, and head retention while adding a rich amber to ruby hue. It is commonly used in Red Ales, Brown Ales, Porters, Stouts, Scottish Ales, Old Ales, Bocks, and strong specialty beers where a fuller malt profile is desired. The malt helps balance hop bitterness while creating a smooth, rounded finish.

What makes Briess Caramel Malt 80L unique compared to lighter crystal malts such as Caramel 40L and 60L is its increased caramelization and more pronounced dark fruit character. While lighter caramel malts emphasize caramel, toffee, and toasted bread notes, Caramel 80L develops richer flavors of raisin, fig, burnt sugar, and subtle molasses. Compared to Caramel 120L, it provides substantial dark fruit complexity while remaining less intense and less dominated by prune, molasses, and heavily caramelized sugar flavors. This makes Caramel 80L an excellent choice for brewers seeking a balance between rich caramel sweetness and complex dried fruit character.

Its versatility allows it to add depth and color without overpowering the overall beer profile, making it a popular choice in both traditional and modern craft beer styles.

Usage Rate: Typically 2 - 15% of the grist

• 2 - 5%: Adds color and subtle dark caramel notes
• 5 - 10%: Rich toffee, raisin, and dried fruit complexity
• 10 - 15%: Pronounced malt sweetness, fuller body, and deep ruby color

Color (Lovibond): 80°L

Diastatic Power: 0° Lintner

Flavor Notes: Dark caramel, toffee, raisin, fig, burnt sugar, light molasses, dried fruit

Briess Caramel Malt 80L is an excellent choice for brewers looking to enhance malt richness, body, and color while adding layers of caramelized sugar and dark fruit complexity. Its balanced profile bridges the gap between medium crystal malts and the most intensely flavored dark crystal malts, making it a versatile addition to a wide range of beer styles.