Easy Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe

This Easy Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce recipe is a rich and indulgent treat made with just a few simple ingredients: sugar, butter, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and flaky sea salt. The deep golden caramel is perfectly balanced with the addition of sea salt, creating a luxurious sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over ice cream, pancakes, cakes, and more. Whether you’re a caramel lover or looking to elevate your desserts, this easy recipe will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (199g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (113ml) water
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (113ml) heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Instructions

1. Combine Sugar and Water:
   In a medium-sized saucepan with tall sides, whisk together the granulated sugar and water.
2. Dissolve the Sugar:
   Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved, about 3 to 5 minutes. This may take a little longer depending on your stove.
3. Add Butter:
   Add the unsalted butter and increase the heat to medium. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. Continue cooking until the mixture turns a deep golden brown or copper color, about 12 minutes. Avoid stirring during this stage to prevent crystallization.
4. Add Cream Carefully:
   Once the caramel has reached the desired color, carefully remove it from the heat. Slowly pour in the heavy cream—be cautious as the mixture will bubble and hiss aggressively.
5. Finish the Sauce:
   Stir in the vanilla extract and flaky sea salt. Whisk the mixture vigorously until it is smooth and fully combined.
6. Cool and Store:
   Allow the caramel to cool slightly before transferring it to a jar or container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: This homemade salted caramel sauce combines the deep, buttery richness of caramel with the perfect touch of sea salt for a balanced, sweet-savory flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with just five basic ingredients, this sauce is easy to make and always delivers luxurious results.
• Versatile: Whether you’re drizzling it over ice cream, cakes, or pancakes, or simply using it as a dip for apples, this caramel sauce elevates any dessert.

Tips

• Be Patient with the Caramelization: Avoid stirring the sugar while it’s dissolving or cooking to ensure it doesn’t crystallize. Allow the sugar to melt and brown naturally.
• Watch the Color: Pay attention to the color of the caramel. You want it to turn a deep golden brown or copper color for the best flavor.
• Cool Before Storing: Let the caramel cool slightly before storing it in jars. It thickens as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems runny at first.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add Different Flavors: For a twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or orange zest to the caramel for a unique flavor profile.
• Use Brown Sugar: Substitute half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream and the butter with a dairy-free alternative to make the sauce dairy-free.
• Spicy Caramel: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick to your salted caramel sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this salted caramel sauce ahead of time?
Yes, this sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

Why does the caramel bubble up when I add the cream?
The bubbling happens because the hot caramel reacts with the cold cream, causing it to rapidly release steam. This is a normal and expected part of the process, so just be careful and use long sleeves or an oven mitt to avoid burns.

Can I freeze salted caramel sauce?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat gently before using.

Serving Suggestions

• Ice Cream: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream or sundae bowls for a sweet treat.
• Pancakes & Waffles: Pour over pancakes or waffles for a decadent breakfast.
• Fruit Dipping: Use as a dip for fresh fruits like apples, pears, or bananas.
• Baked Goods: Drizzle over cakes, brownies, or cupcakes to enhance the flavor.

This easy homemade salted caramel sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves sweet, indulgent treats with a hint of salt. Whether you’re using it in desserts or simply savoring it on its own, it’s the perfect complement to any dish.