The number of licks to the center of a Tootsie Pop may be up for debate forevermore, but that riddle has been solved for new Seattle Sweets & Co.’s organic caramels. The answer is two: one lick to tantalize the taste buds and another to quickly devour the decadent, rich chew.

Owner and candy wizard Marisa Lown taps into a vast baking background garnered at The Triple Door, Trophy Cupcakes and, most recently, The Radical Cupcake for her wildly imaginative caramel flavors ($8/4-ounce assorted bag), which include a spicy grapefruit and black pepper combo, rich chocolate paired with basil, and a citrusy lemongrass and lime.

In addition to the always gluten-free selections, Lown crafts vegan options, such as Stumptown espresso ($9/4-ounce bag), and will soon offer caramel sauces and hand-rolled chocolate truffles, all made with locally sourced ingredients.

Available at seattlesweetsandcompany.com.