Caramel Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caramel Sauce is a rich, buttery, and smooth topping that elevates desserts like ice cream, cakes, pies, and even coffee drinks. Made with simple ingredients, it delivers a deep, toasty sweetness and a luxurious texture that’s hard to resist. This homemade version ensures a perfect balance of flavor and consistency, far surpassing store-bought alternatives.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

granulated sugarsalted butterheavy creamvanilla extract (optional)sea salt (optional for salted caramel)

directions

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar while stirring constantly with a heat-resistant spatula or wooden spoon.

Continue cooking and stirring until the sugar turns a deep amber color.

Carefully add the butter and stir until fully melted and combined.

Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring—be cautious as the mixture will bubble vigorously.

Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Stir in vanilla extract and salt if using.

Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before using, or store for later.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 1 cup of caramel sauce.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesCooling time: 10 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of bourbon or rum for a boozy twist.

Infuse with cinnamon or espresso powder for unique flavor notes.

Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.

Make it dairy-free with coconut cream and vegan butter.

storage/reheating

Store caramel sauce in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.Reheat gently in the microwave or over low heat on the stove, stirring until smooth.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, just add a pinch of salt to balance the flavor.

Why is my caramel grainy?

Graininess can occur if sugar crystals form. Stir constantly and avoid scraping crystallized bits from the pan.

How do I fix hardened caramel?

Reheat gently and stir in a little warm cream to soften it.

Is this sauce good for gifts?

Absolutely! Pour into small jars, seal, and label for a delicious homemade gift.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a larger saucepan to prevent overflow when adding cream.

Is caramel sauce gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

What can I use it on?

Try it on ice cream, pancakes, waffles, brownies, or apple slices.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, it stores well and tastes great even after a few days.

What if my sauce is too thin?

Simmer it a little longer to thicken, or add less cream.

Can I freeze caramel sauce?

Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Caramel Sauce is a versatile and indulgent addition to your dessert repertoire. Its smooth texture and deep flavor make it a favorite for both casual treats and elegant presentations. Once you try making it at home, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again.

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