Make your own salted caramel sauce with this quick and easy recipe, perfect for drizzling over desserts or stirring into your favorite drinks.

Introduction

Salted caramel sauce is a luxurious blend of sweetness and a touch of salt, creating a perfectly balanced, rich caramel that’s ideal for pouring over ice cream, cakes, or even mixing into coffee. This homemade version is surprisingly simple and requires just a few ingredients to achieve that smooth, glossy texture and irresistible taste.

Making your own salted caramel sauce might seem intimidating, but it’s actually straightforward with a bit of patience and attention. Plus, the result is far superior to store-bought versions. Whether you’re a caramel lover or looking to add an indulgent touch to your desserts, this salted caramel sauce recipe is sure to be a favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)

Directions

1. Heat the sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the sugar and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. The sugar will begin to clump and then melt into a thick, amber-colored liquid. Be patient and continue stirring until it’s completely melted.
2. Add butter: Carefully add the butter, as the caramel will bubble rapidly. Stir until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
3. Add cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. The mixture will bubble up again, but keep stirring until it becomes a smooth sauce.
4. Add salt: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the sea salt. Allow the caramel to cool slightly before using.

How to Prepare

Making salted caramel sauce requires a watchful eye and consistent stirring, especially as the sugar melts to avoid burning. Using room-temperature cream helps reduce splattering when added to the hot caramel. Once done, pour the sauce into a jar and allow it to cool completely before storing.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes

Servings

This recipe makes about 1 cup of salted caramel sauce, which is perfect for drizzling over several desserts.

FAQs

1. How should I store salted caramel sauce?
   Store the sauce in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently before using.
2. Can I make this without heavy cream?
   For a lighter version, you can use whole milk, though the sauce will be thinner and less creamy.
3. What type of salt is best for salted caramel?
   Sea salt or flaky salt is ideal for a clean, subtle salty taste. Avoid using table salt, as it’s too fine.
4. Why did my caramel turn grainy?
   Graininess can happen if the sugar wasn’t fully dissolved or if it crystallized. Constant stirring and keeping the heat moderate can prevent this.
5. Can I freeze salted caramel sauce?
   Yes, salted caramel sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before using.

Conclusion

Salted caramel sauce is a deliciously versatile treat that enhances any dessert or drink with a rich, buttery flavor and a perfect balance of sweet and salty. This homemade recipe is simple, using only a handful of ingredients and yielding a smooth, glossy sauce. Once you’ve tried making it yourself, you’ll find it hard to go back to store-bought versions. Indulge your taste buds and enjoy this heavenly sauce!