Here’s what you need to whip up this delicious caramel sauce:
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 tablespoons water
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt or sea salt (optional for salted caramel)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Directions
- Step 1: In a medium-sized, heavy-duty saucepan, combine sugar and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves (about 3 to 5 minutes).
- Step 2: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Gently swirl the pan occasionally to keep the mixture moving, and brush down the sides with a wet silicone brush.
- Step 3: Continue to cook the mixture until it turns a deep amber color (about 6 to 9 minutes).
- Step 4: Remove the pan from heat and carefully stir in the heavy cream, unsalted butter, and optional salt. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble up.
- Step 5: Let the sauce cool in the saucepan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a large glass jar for storage.
- Step 6: Refrigerate the caramel sauce for up to 1 month.
FAQs
1. Can I make this caramel sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can make this caramel sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a month.
2. How can I use this caramel sauce?
This caramel sauce is perfect for drizzling over desserts like ice cream, cake, or brownies, and can also be incorporated into various baking recipes.
3. Can I make it dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and dairy-free butter alternatives.
4. What type of sugar should I use?
Granulated white sugar works best for this recipe, as it caramelizes evenly.
5. Why did my caramel sauce crystallize?
If the sugar mixture is stirred while boiling, it can lead to crystallization. Make sure to avoid stirring and instead swirl the pan gently.
Conclusion
This easy homemade caramel sauce is a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire—perfect for sweetening your favorite treats or enjoying directly from the jar. The combination of simple ingredients and quick preparation makes it an accessible choice for everyone, regardless of culinary skill. Once you try this recipe, you’ll likely never reach for the store-bought version again! Experiment with different variations, and enjoy all the delicious possibilities that homemade caramel sauce has to offer.
