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caramel sauce
caramel sauce, caramel sauce recipe, homemade caramel sauce, salted caramel sauce, salted caramel sauce recipe

Easy Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time :5 minutes
Cook Time :15 minutes
Total Time :20 minutes
Serves: 12
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Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature cut into cubes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream room temperature
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Melt the sugar. In a medium saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly with a heatproof spatula or wooden spoon. The sugar will clump, but continue to stir until it melts and turns a rich, golden amber color. Be careful not to burn it, but you want a deep color for more flavor.
    sugar turned an amber color
  • Add the butter: Once the sugar is fully melted and a deep amber color, remove it from the heat and add the butter. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble up. Whisk until the butter is fully melted. Note, if the butter isn't fully incorporated, that's okay.
    butter in caramel sauce
  • Add the cream: Next, quickly, but carefully, pour in the heavy cream while continuing to whisk the sauce. The mixture will bubble vigorously again. Stir until the cream is fully mixed in and the sauce is smooth.
    milk added to caramel sauce
  • Finish with vanilla & salt. Next, whisk in the vanilla extract and salt. Then, transfer the caramel to a heat-safe container and allow to cool and thicken. Place in the refrigerator to store until use. Before use, microwave for 15-30 seconds to get the best results.
    caramel sauce

Notes

  • Choose the Right Pan: Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to help distribute heat evenly and prevent burning.
  • Prep Ingredients Ahead: Make sure your butter and cream are at room temperature before you start. This prevents splattering when you add them to the hot sugar and helps to ensure your sauce is smooth and luscious and doesn't seize.
  • Watch the Color: Pay attention to the sugar as it heats. You want it to turn a deep amber color—this indicates it’s ready, but be careful not to let it burn.
  • Work Quickly: Once your caramel is darkened, you will need to add the butter and heavy cream quickly to ensure the perfect consistency.
  • Add Salt Gradually: Start with a small amount of salt and taste as you go. This enhances the flavor without making it too salty.
  • Add Water if Necessary: If your caramel crystallizes, it may be due to sugar crystals forming. You can try to fix it by carefully reheating it with a bit of water.
  • Cool Before Using: Let the caramel cool slightly before using it. It will thicken as it cools, making it easier to drizzle.
  • Practice Patience: Caramel-making requires some time and attention, so don’t rush it. Enjoy the process, and you’ll get the hang of it!
 
 
 

Nutritional Information

Serving: 1 drizzleCalories: 150kcal (8%)Carbohydrates: 17g (6%)Protein: 0.3g (1%)Fat: 9g (14%)Saturated Fat: 6g (38%)Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 26mg (9%)Sodium: 197mg (9%)Potassium: 12mgSugar: 17g (19%)Vitamin A: 321IU (6%)Vitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 9mg (1%)Iron: 0.02mg