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Easy Caramel Sauce

A quick and delightful sauce made with sugar, butter, and cream that adds a rich flavor to desserts, perfect for ice cream and pancakes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Sauce
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup granulated sugar The star of your sauce, this creates that delightful caramelization.
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds richness and a creamy texture to your sauce.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream This gives your caramel its sumptuous feel. Can substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
  • pinch salt Enhances the sweetness of the caramel, balancing the flavors.
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 dash vanilla extract For a touch of flavor, consider adding this.
  • 1 tablespoon bourbon or rum For an adult twist.
  • 1 tablespoon coconut sugar For a lower glycemic index version.
  • 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice A festive touch during the holidays.
  • 1 tablespoon espresso powder For a coffee-flavored caramel.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon as it begins to melt, watching for the edges to turn golden.
  2. Once the sugar is fully melted and amber in color, carefully add the butter. The mixture will bubble vigorously—don’t worry, that’s perfectly normal! Stir until fully combined.
  3. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. The mixture will bubble again, so be careful!
  4. Add a pinch of salt and continue to stir until smooth and silky. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  5. For added flavor, you can mix in a splash of vanilla extract at this stage.

Notes

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Reheat in 15-second intervals or on stovetop until pourable. Using a heavy-bottomed pan helps distribute heat evenly and reduces the risk of scorching your sugar.