Classic Caramel Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Caramel Sauce is a rich, buttery topping that adds luxurious flavor to everything from ice cream and brownies to coffee and pancakes. With its deep golden color and smooth texture, this sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet and slightly salty. It’s simple to make and stores beautifully, making it a must-have in your dessert repertoire.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

granulated sugarsalted butterheavy creamvanilla extractsea salt (optional, for salted caramel variation)

directions

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly with a heatproof spatula or wooden spoon.

Continue to cook and stir until the sugar melts completely and turns a deep amber color.

Carefully add the butter and stir until fully melted and combined.

Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream while stirring—the mixture will bubble vigorously.

Allow the sauce to boil for about 1 minute, then remove from heat.

Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt if desired.

Let the caramel sauce cool slightly before using. It will thicken as it cools.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 1 cup of caramel sauce.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesCooling time: 15 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of cinnamon for a spiced twist.

Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper molasses flavor.

Replace vanilla with bourbon or rum extract for a grown-up flavor.

Stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end for an extra glossy finish.

storage/reheating

Store caramel sauce in a glass jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm on the stovetop, stirring until smooth.

FAQs

Why did my caramel seize up?

If the cream is added too quickly or is too cold, it can cause the caramel to seize. Warm the cream slightly and add it slowly while stirring.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger saucepan to prevent overflow during bubbling.

Is this caramel sauce good for gift-giving?

Absolutely! Pour into small jars, seal, and add a ribbon or label for a delicious homemade gift.

Can I make this sauce dairy-free?

Yes, substitute coconut cream and vegan butter, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Why is my caramel too runny or too thick?

Caramel thickens as it cools. If too thick, reheat with a splash of cream. If too runny, simmer a bit longer.

Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, but add a pinch of salt if you want that classic salted caramel flavor.

Conclusion

Classic Caramel Sauce is a versatile, decadent addition to countless desserts. With its buttery, velvety consistency and deep flavor, it’s the kind of treat you’ll want to keep on hand. Whether you drizzle it, dip with it, or stir it into drinks, this sauce turns any dish into something extraordinary.

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