Description
Indulge in the buttery richness of homemade caramel sauce made with just five simple ingredients in 10 minutes! This versatile, quick, and easy recipe is perfect for drizzling over ice cream, pancakes, or cakes, and even works as a dip for fruits or a sweetener for your coffee.
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- ombine Sugar and Water: Add sugar and water to a heavy-bottomed saucepan, stirring gently to form an even layer.
- Heat Mixture: Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and bubbles form, about 3–4 minutes. Avoid stirring; swirl the pan gently.
- Caramelize: Continue cooking until the mixture reaches a deep amber color, approximately 8–12 minutes. Monitor closely to avoid burning.
- Add Butter: Carefully whisk in butter until fully melted. Expect vigorous bubbling.
- Incorporate Cream: Remove from heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth.
- Flavor: Stir in vanilla extract and salt to taste.
- Cool: Allow sauce to cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a jar to cool completely.
Notes
- Variations:
- Salted Caramel: Increase the salt to 1/2 teaspoon.
- Flavored Caramel: Add bourbon or cinnamon for a twist.
- Storage: Refrigerate in a sealed jar for up to 3 weeks or freeze for 2 months. Reheat gently before use.
- Troubleshooting: Avoid stirring once sugar dissolves to prevent crystallization.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Sauces
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
