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Salted caramel sauce is the perfect blend of sweet and salty, adding a rich, buttery touch to a range of desserts. Whether drizzled over ice cream or used to elevate a batch of brownies, this homemade version promises a deliciously smooth texture that’s sure to impress. Follow these simple steps to cook salted caramel sauce from scratch.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for added flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Heat the Sugar
Begin by heating 1 cup of granulated sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula until the sugar melts into a smooth, amber-colored liquid. Be patient, as this process can take a few minutes.
2. Add the Butter
Once your sugar has completely melted, carefully stir in 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so be cautious. Continue stirring until the butter is fully integrated into the melted sugar.
3. Add the Heavy Cream
Slowly pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream while stirring continuously. Again, the mixture will bubble up and thicken as the cream interacts with the hot sugar. Stir until the cream is fully blended in.
4. Season with Salt and Vanilla
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of sea salt. If you love a hint of vanilla, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract at this stage. This step is crucial to achieving that perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
5. Cool and Store
Allow your caramel sauce to cool for a few minutes. Once it’s safe to handle, transfer it to a glass jar or airtight container. Seal it tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
6. Enjoy!
Now that you’ve made your delicious salted caramel sauce, the possibilities are endless! Drizzle it warm over ice cream, use it as a filling for layer cakes, or even swirl it into your morning coffee for a special treat.
Creating your own salted caramel sauce at home is not only satisfying but also ensures that you’re getting the freshest, most flavorful result possible. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful stirring, you’ll have a versatile sauce that’s sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Not to mention, homemade salted caramel sauce in a jar is a great gift idea if you want something impressive but not necessarily inexpensive for your friends, relatives, or co-workers!
Check out these adorable gifting jars HERE!
Enjoy!