Homemade Caramel Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Brown sugar
I use light brown sugar but you can also use dark.
- 1/2 Cup Heavy whipping cream
- 4 tablespoons Butter
I use salted butter but if you use unsalted butter, add a touch more salt.
- 1/2 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
- Pinch Salt
You can increase amount of salt to make a salted caramel sauce. See notes.
Directions
- 1
In a medium heavy-duty stainless steel saucepan, melt the butter over medium-heat on the stovetop.
- 2
Add the brown sugar and pinch of salt to the saucepan. Stir till combined.
- 3
Stir in the heavy cream to the melted sugar and increase heat to medium-high heat.
- 4
Pay close attention while you simmer the mixture, stirring often for about 5-6 minutes.
- 5
(If you use too high of heat, it will turn into toffee.)
- 6
Once the caramel sauce has thickened, remove from heat.
- 7
Add in the vanilla extract and stir it in till fully incorporated.
- 8
(It will bubble up some as the alcohol evaporates.)
- 9
Pour into a glass jar or airtight container for storage.
- 10
(A mason jar works well. See storage tips below.)
- 11
The hot caramel will be thin at first but as the caramel cools it will thicken as it comes to room temperature.
Homemade Caramel Sauce
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About this Recipe
Craving that rich, buttery caramel flavor without the fuss? This homemade caramel sauce comes together in minutes, transforming simple ingredients into a versatile topping that truly outshines anything store-bought. You'll love how easily you can whip up this decadent treat!
What makes this caramel so delightful is the harmonious blend of rich brown sugar, luxurious heavy cream, and creamy butter. It's a classic combination that guarantees a smooth, incredibly decadent texture and deep, satisfying flavor. The quick preparation time means you're just moments away from a truly special indulgence, perfect for elevating everyday desserts.
Prepare for a velvety smooth, pourable caramel sauce with a deep, comforting sweetness. The brown sugar lends a nuanced, slightly molasses-like flavor that’s more complex than caramels made with white sugar. You'll find it incredibly versatile, perfect for drizzling and dipping, enhancing everything from fruit to coffee. It’s a straightforward recipe that yields impressive results, ideal for home cooks looking for a delicious, comforting treat.
One of the joys of this recipe is how easily you can tailor it to your preferences. For a deeper, more robust flavor, opt for dark brown sugar instead of light. If you prefer a truly salted caramel sauce, simply increase the amount of salt beyond a pinch to your taste. And remember, if you're using unsalted butter, a touch more salt will balance the richness beautifully.
This rich caramel sauce is perfect for elevating everyday desserts or adding a gourmet touch to your morning coffee. Drizzle it generously over vanilla ice cream, swirl it into a warm drink, or serve it alongside crisp apple slices for a simple yet elegant treat.