Homemade Caramel Sauce Recipe

BySoha

There’s nothing quite like the deep, buttery sweetness of homemade caramel sauce. Unlike store-bought versions, this sauce offers a rich, velvety texture and a nuanced flavor that balances sugar, butter, and cream perfectly. Simple ingredients and careful technique elevate it from ordinary to extraordinary, making it a versatile addition to desserts, drinks, and baked treats.

Ingredients List

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Caramel Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Melt the sugar

In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly with a heat-resistant spatula or wooden spoon until it melts completely and turns a deep amber color.

Step 2: Add butter

Carefully add the butter pieces to the melted sugar. The mixture will bubble vigorously—stir until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 3: Incorporate cream

Remove the pan from heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. The sauce will bubble up again; continue stirring until smooth.

Step 4: Finish the sauce

Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before using, as it will thicken as it rests.

Cook Time

Total: 15 minutes
Prep: 5 minutes
Bake: 10 minutes

Servings

Makes approximately 1 cup

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 120 (per 2 tablespoons)
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Protein: 0 g
  • Sodium: 25 mg

Storage Instructions

Store caramel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring until smooth.

Suggestions

Drizzle over ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or fresh fruit. Use it as a base for caramel lattes, drizzle into chocolate desserts, or layer in cakes for a decadent touch.

Seasonal Relevance

Caramel sauce is a timeless treat, perfect for cozy fall and winter desserts, yet versatile enough to enhance summer ice creams and fresh fruit dishes.

Conclusion

Mastering homemade caramel sauce is about patience and attention to detail, but the results are unmatched. Its rich, buttery, and silky profile elevates simple desserts into indulgent creations, making it an essential addition to any home chef’s repertoire.

Homemade Caramel Sauce Recipe
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Homemade Caramel Sauce Recipe

Recipe by Soha
Servings

1

servings
Prep time

5

minutes
Cooking time

10

minutes
Calories

120

kcal
Total time

15

minutes

This homemade caramel sauce is rich, buttery, and perfectly smooth, offering a deep, complex sweetness that elevates desserts, drinks, and baked treats. Made with simple ingredients and careful technique, it’s a versatile and indulgent addition to any kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

  • Pinch of salt

Directions

  • Heat sugar in a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until melted and deep amber.
  • Carefully add butter pieces and stir until fully incorporated and smooth.
  • Remove from heat and slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously until smooth.
  • Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before using.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • Reheat gently over low heat or in short microwave bursts if the sauce thickens.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • Perfect for drizzling over ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or fresh fruit.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce dairy-free?
Yes, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Why did my caramel crystallize?
Crystallization occurs when sugar crystals are introduced or stirred excessively. Use a clean pan and stir gently when melting.

How thick will the sauce get when cooled?
It will thicken as it cools but will remain pourable. Reheat slightly if a thinner consistency is desired.

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