Description
A rich and silky homemade caramel sauce made from just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for drizzling over ice cream, cakes, pancakes, or adding to your favorite desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, for salted caramel)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly with a heat-resistant spatula.
- Once the sugar has melted and turned a deep amber color, carefully add the butter, continuing to stir until the butter is fully melted and combined with the sugar.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring, being cautious as the mixture will bubble up. Stir until smooth and fully combined, about 1-2 minutes.
- If making salted caramel, stir in the salt. Add the vanilla extract, if desired, and mix until incorporated.
- Remove from heat and allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before serving or storing in an airtight container. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
Notes
The caramel sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg