Downtown Cranford just got a little sweeter with the official opening of Carmela’s Sweet Shoppe! The Downtown Cranford office joined owner Rosie Caramella-Smith, her husband Aaron, friends and family, Cranford Township commissioners, and DMC Board members to cut the ribbon at Rosie’s new storefront at 11 Walnut Avenue.

Rosie has been a frequent fixture at chocolate events and expos for the past few years, growing her reputation as the purveyor of delicious, hand-dipped candy and caramel apples. Customers can choose from over 25 varieties of apples, including S’mores, Almond Joy, Cookies and Cream, Fruity Pebbles, and so much more. Carmela’s Sweet Shoppe is more than just candy and caramel apples though! When customers walk through the door, they’ll see a selection of homemade chocolates on display, including peanut butter cups, sea salt caramels, cherry cordials, chocolate covered pretzels, and nonpareils. It took Rosie over two years of working on a caramel recipe to come up with one that had the perfect consistency and taste that she wanted. Quality is something that you’ll find in spades with all of Rosie’s homemade treats.

In addition to homemade candy apples, caramel apples, and chocolates, Carmela’s Sweet Shoppe has a selection of gummy and nostalgic candies that will satisfy any sweet tooth. For those with allergy and dietary restrictions, many of the gummy candies are gluten-free and Rosie plans to bring in nut-free options. “I signed the lease for this space on my 30th birthday,” said Rosie. “I knew it was time to grow and take the next step in my journey. I love what I do and it’s so rewarding when people say how much they enjoy my treats. I wouldn’t be here without the support of my family and customers.”

Carmela’s Sweet Shoppe’s normal operating hours are 11AM-6PM, Wednesday through Sunday.

“Amanda, the owner of Lily & Sparrow, recommended that I look in Cranford for a space and I’m so happy she did. Cranford is such a supportive small business community – other towns don’t even come close. Everyone has been so welcoming, which just reinforces my belief that I made the right choice by opening here.”

Welcome to the Downtown Cranford community Carmela’s Sweet Shoppe! We can’t wait to try your confections!