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homemade caramel sauce

5-Minute Easy Homemade Caramel Sauce

This foolproof caramel sauce requires only four ingredients and no candy thermometer. It’s perfect for drizzling over apple slices, lattes, or homemade desserts.
Serving Size 15

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 6 tbsp Salted Butter room temperature, cut into cubes
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream room temperature
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • Optional: A pinch of sea salt for "Salted Caramel"

Instructions

  • Melt the Sugar: Heat the granulated sugar in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Whisk constantly as the sugar begins to melt. It will form clumps at first but will eventually melt into a thick, amber-colored liquid.
  • Add the Butter: Once the sugar is completely melted and amber in color, immediately add the butter. Be careful: The mixture will bubble up rapidly. Whisk constantly until the butter is completely melted and combined (about 2 minutes).
  • Pour the Cream: Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream while whisking. Again, the mixture will bubble and steam. Allow it to boil for 1 minute. It will look thin but will thicken significantly as it cools.
  • Finish: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract (and sea salt, if using).
  • Cool and Store: Let the sauce cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then pour it into a glass jar. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

If the sauce becomes too thick in the fridge, simply microwave it for 10–15 seconds to return it to a pourable consistency.