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Quick Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce

A spoonful of rich, glossy salted caramel sauce being poured over a small, round dessert on a white plate.
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Make rich, buttery salted caramel sauce from scratch in under 20 minutes. This easy recipe is perfect for drizzling over desserts or enjoying as a sweet and salty treat.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed slightly
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)

Instructions

  1. Place the granulated sugar in a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Do not stir initially.
  2. Allow the sugar to melt completely, swirling the pan occasionally to ensure even melting. Watch closely as it turns amber, about 5 to 8 minutes. Do not let it burn.
  3. Once the sugar is fully melted and a deep amber color, remove the pan from the heat. Carefully add the butter pieces one at a time, whisking constantly until the butter is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. It will bubble vigorously.
  4. Slowly pour in the warm heavy cream while whisking continuously. The mixture will seize up and bubble again. Return the pan to low heat if necessary to dissolve any hardened sugar clumps, stirring until smooth.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt.
  6. Let the caramel sauce cool for at least 15 minutes before using. It will thicken as it cools. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Notes

  • Warm the heavy cream slightly before adding it to the melted sugar to prevent the caramel from seizing too hard.
  • If you want a less salty flavor, start with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and taste before adding more.
  • This sauce is excellent as a caramel topping for ice cream or apples.

Nutrition

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