On its own, caramel is a superlatively capable confection. It’s rich, buttery, and remarkably sweet—a massive presence on the palate. When combined with some complementary element, however, it becomes something else entirely: a foundation on which to build captivatingly complex structures of flavor. Nowhere is that more evident than in Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Covered Caramels. They’re made for us by an expert supplier, who starts with a super sweet and enchantingly chewy square of lightly salted, vanilla-tinged Caramel, then coats it in a layer of full-flavored, tooth-sinkable Dark Chocolate. Together, this toothsome twosome of ingredients play off one another beautifully: the bitter elements of the Chocolate bring out the vanilla in the Caramel, while the delicately salty and sweet notes of the Caramel heighten the Chocolate’s muted fruity flavors. Aside from serving spectacularly well on a dessert board, cut into bits and sprinkled atop of a scoop of French Vanilla Ice Cream, or simply enjoyed as the mood strikes, Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Covered Caramels also make a great gift for anyone you know with a sweet tooth. Bring a pouch over the next time you’re invited to a friend’s for dinner—they’re especially delicious when enjoyed after a meal with a glass of wine and great conversation.