Description
This Homemade Caramel recipe creates a smooth, rich, and buttery caramel sauce perfect for drizzling over desserts, mixing into drinks, or enjoying by the spoonful. Made with simple ingredients like granulated sugar, butter, heavy cream, and vanilla, it delivers a classic sweet and slightly salty flavor with easy stovetop preparation in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional, for salted caramel)
Instructions
- Melt the sugar: In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant silicone spatula. The sugar will begin to melt and form clumps before turning into a smooth, amber-colored liquid. Be careful not to burn it—this process takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the butter: Once the sugar has melted and turned golden brown, add the cubed butter. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble up. Stir the butter into the caramel until fully melted and combined.
- Add the cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. The mixture will bubble up again. Continue to stir until the caramel is smooth and thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Finish the caramel: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, if using. Continue stirring until the caramel is fully combined and smooth.
- Cool and store: Remove from heat and allow the caramel to cool for a few minutes before using. The caramel will thicken as it cools. You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Use a medium or heavy-bottomed saucepan to ensure even heat distribution.
- Stir constantly to prevent sugar from burning or crystallizing.
- Be very careful when adding butter and cream, as the mixture will bubble vigorously.
- Optionally add a pinch of sea salt for salted caramel flavor.
- Store leftover caramel in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 2 weeks; warm gently before using.
