Name: Salted Caramel Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup cold water; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon kosher salt

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There’s something magical about a rich, creamy Salted Caramel Sauce that transports me back to my childhood. I remember standing on a stool in my grandmother’s kitchen, captivated by the swirling colors of sugar as it transformed from a simple granule to a beautiful amber liquid. The aroma of caramelizing sugar filled the air, and with each stir, the anticipation grew. Today, I still find that same joy when I make my own Salted Caramel Sauce. It’s perfect for drizzling over ice cream, pancakes, or even just enjoying straight from the spoon. This sauce adds a touch of luxury to any dessert, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Crafting Salted Caramel Sauce is not just about combining ingredients; it’s about creating memories. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, this sauce brings people together. The sweet and salty balance dances on your palate, complemented by its silky texture. I love watching friends’ faces light up when they taste a drizzle of homemade caramel, and I can’t help but smile knowing I made it from scratch. It’s the little things that create the biggest memories, and a jar of this sauce is a reminder of sweet moments spent with loved ones.

So, if you’re looking to elevate your dessert game, let’s dive into making this luscious Salted Caramel Sauce. You’ll find it’s easier than you might think, and the satisfaction you’ll feel when you pour it over your favorite treat is unbeatable.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
0 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Saucepan, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

What Makes This Salted Caramel Sauce Special

1. Versatile Indulgence

One of the things I love about Salted Caramel Sauce is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re topping ice cream, drizzling it over a brownie, or using it in your baking, this sauce adapts to any scenario. It brings a touch of elegance to simple desserts, transforming them into something extraordinary.

2. Simple Ingredients

With just a handful of ingredients—sugar, water, cream, butter, and salt—you can create something truly extraordinary. The beauty lies in the simplicity of the components, allowing each flavor to shine. Plus, it’s likely you already have these essentials in your pantry.

3. Homemade vs. Store-Bought

Once you try homemade Salted Caramel Sauce, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought! The freshness and rich flavor of your homemade batch far surpass anything you can buy off the shelf. Plus, there’s a sense of pride that comes with making it yourself. You control the saltiness and sweetness, ensuring it’s just how you like it.

4. The Perfect Gift

Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce makes a delightful gift! Package it in a pretty jar, add a ribbon, and you’ve got a thoughtful present for friends and family. Imagine their surprise when they receive this delicious treat, perfect for adding a sweet touch to their desserts.

5. A Little Goes a Long Way

Even a small amount of this decadent sauce can elevate a dessert, making it indulgent without overpowering it. Just a drizzle can transform a slice of pie or a scoop of ice cream into a gourmet experience.

6. Great for Celebrations

Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a Thursday, Salted Caramel Sauce adds a festive touch to any occasion. It’s perfect for brunches, potlucks, or cozy dinners, bringing a smile to everyone’s face.

Everything You Need for Salted Caramel Sauce

The ingredients for Salted Caramel Sauce are simple yet essential for achieving that perfect flavor and texture. Each component plays its role in creating this delightful sauce that is not only rich but also balances sweetness with a hint of saltiness. Let’s look at the key players:

1 cup granulated sugar: This is the base of our sauce, providing the necessary sweetness and creating that beautiful caramel color.
1/4 cup cold water: Water helps dissolve the sugar and ensures an even cook as we heat it.
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream: This ingredient gives our sauce its creamy texture and rich flavor.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter adds a silky finish and enhances the overall taste of the sauce.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Salt is the magic touch that brings out the sweetness and balances the flavors.

The Method for Salted Caramel Sauce

Making Salted Caramel Sauce is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a luscious sauce ready to enhance your desserts.

Start by combining 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup cold water in a medium saucepan. Use a whisk to mix them well until the sugar is fully dissolved. This step ensures that the sugar melts evenly when heated.
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and watch as the mixture starts to bubble. Don’t stir it at this point; just let the magic happen. As it heats, you’ll notice the color gradually changing to a golden amber. This will take about 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
While the sugar is cooking, place 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream in the microwave for about 30 seconds. You want it warm but not boiling, so it mixes well with the sugar.
Once the sugar turns that beautiful amber color, reduce the heat to medium-low. Carefully pour the warm heavy whipping cream into the saucepan. Be cautious, as it may bubble vigorously. Use a whisk to continuously stir the mixture as you pour, ensuring a smooth blend.
Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, keeping it on medium-low heat. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and well combined. This is where the cream integrates beautifully with the caramelized sugar.
Add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon kosher salt to the saucepan, turning off the heat. Continue to stir until the butter is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce, giving it a rich and glossy finish.
Your Salted Caramel Sauce is ready to be served! Let it cool slightly before using. It can be drizzled over ice cream, cheesecake, or even enjoyed straight from the jar!

Things Worth Knowing

Perfect Temperature: Sugar needs to reach around 350°F to achieve that beautiful amber color. A candy thermometer can help you gauge this.
Don’t Rush It: Allowing the caramel to cook slowly ensures a better flavor and prevents burning.
Storage: Keep your Salted Caramel Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just reheat gently before using.
Variations: You can add spices or flavored extracts to create unique twists on your sauce.

Recipe Notes about Salted Caramel Sauce

Making Salted Caramel Sauce can be a delightful experience, and there are always a few tips to keep in mind. Here’s how to ensure your sauce turns out perfectly:

Storage: Store your leftover Salted Caramel Sauce in a sealed jar in the fridge. It can last for up to two weeks. Just reheat it slowly in a saucepan or microwave when you’re ready to use it.
Freezing: You can freeze Salted Caramel Sauce for up to three months. Store it in a freezer-safe container, and thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestion: This sauce is wonderful drizzled over desserts like ice cream, brownies, or pancakes. It can also be used in coffee for a sweet touch.
Adjusting Flavor: If you prefer a sweeter or saltier sauce, feel free to adjust the sugar or salt levels to suit your taste.
Making Ahead: This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored, making it perfect for when you’re entertaining guests.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving Salted Caramel Sauce, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fantastic ways to enjoy it:

Ice Cream Sundaes: Drizzle it over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic sundae.
Pancakes or Waffles: Pour it on your breakfast favorites for an indulgent start to the day.
Brownies: Serve warm over freshly baked brownies for an unforgettable dessert.
Fruit: Use it as a dip for apple slices or pear wedges, adding a sweet touch to your snack.
Coffee: Stir some into your coffee for a deliciously sweet twist on your morning brew.
Gift Giving: Package your homemade sauce in pretty jars for a thoughtful gift; it’s perfect for friends and family!

FAQ

Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. It’s best to reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before using to restore its smooth texture.

Absolutely! While kosher salt is commonly used, you can experiment with sea salt or Himalayan salt for different flavor profiles. Just adjust the amount to taste, as different salts can vary in saltiness.

Salted Caramel Sauce pairs wonderfully with many desserts. Consider drizzling it over ice cream, pancakes, or brownies. It can also enhance the flavor of coffee or be used as a dip for apples and pears.

Yes, Salted Caramel Sauce is surprisingly easy to make at home! With just a few simple ingredients and careful attention, you can create a delicious sauce that will impress your family and friends.

Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just ensure you have a large enough saucepan to accommodate the increased volume to prevent it from boiling over.

Conclusion

This Salted Caramel Sauce is truly special, offering a delightful blend of flavors that can elevate any dessert. I encourage you to try making it at home; it’s easier than you might think and incredibly rewarding!

Whether drizzled over ice cream or enjoyed straight from the jar, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy creating sweet memories!