Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade caramel sauce is not only quick and easy to make, but it also tastes a million times better than store-bought versions. Its smooth texture and balanced sweetness make it the perfect companion for a variety of desserts. Whether you’re drizzling it over warm brownies or stirring it into your morning coffee, this sauce adds a touch of indulgence to any treat.

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar
4 tablespoons water
½ cup heavy cream
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ teaspoon kosher salt (optional, for salted caramel)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

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

Directions

In a medium, heavy-duty saucepan, combine the sugar and water.
Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves (about 3 to 5 minutes).
Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, do not stir. Instead, gently swirl the pan occasionally and use a wet silicone brush to wash down any sugar crystals from the sides of the pan.
Continue cooking until the mixture turns a deep amber color (approximately 6 to 9 minutes).
Remove the pan from heat.
Carefully stir in the heavy cream, butter, and salt until the butter has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Let the caramel sauce cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a glass jar for storage.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 32 servings (1 tablespoon per serving)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Salted Caramel: Add ½ teaspoon of kosher or sea salt to the sauce for a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
Vanilla Caramel: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract after removing the pan from heat for a warm, aromatic flavor.
Buttermilk Bourbon Caramel: For a more complex flavor, try incorporating buttermilk and optional bourbon for depth.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the caramel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired consistency.

FAQs

How do I prevent my caramel from crystallizing?

To prevent crystallization, avoid stirring the caramel once it starts boiling. Instead, gently swirl the pan occasionally. Additionally, brushing down the sides of the pan with a wet silicone brush can help remove any sugar crystals.

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, using brown sugar will give the caramel a deeper, molasses-like flavor. However, the texture may be slightly different, and the caramel may be a bit darker.

Is it safe to add cream to hot sugar?

Yes, but be cautious. The mixture will bubble up when the cream is added. Always remove the pan from heat before adding the cream to prevent splattering.

Can I make this caramel sauce without butter?

Butter adds richness and flavor to the caramel sauce. If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine.

How can I make this caramel sauce thicker?

To achieve a thicker consistency, cook the caramel sauce for a longer period until it reaches your desired thickness. Keep in mind that the sauce will thicken further as it cools.

Can I freeze caramel sauce?

Yes, you can freeze caramel sauce. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently before serving.

Can I use this caramel sauce in baking?

Absolutely! This caramel sauce is perfect for drizzling over cakes, pies, and other baked goods. It can also be incorporated into recipes like caramel apple sticky buns or caramel apple empanadas.

How do I know when the caramel is ready?

The caramel is ready when it reaches a deep amber color and has a rich, nutty aroma. Be cautious not to let it burn, as it can turn bitter quickly.

Can I make this caramel sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the caramel sauce in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it before serving.

Is this caramel sauce gluten-free?

Yes, this caramel sauce is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten-containing ingredients.

Conclusion

This homemade caramel sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, buttery flavors. Its versatility makes it a staple in many kitchens, perfect for enhancing a wide range of desserts. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can enjoy the taste of homemade caramel anytime.