Classic Caramel Sauce

Name: Classic Caramel Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed; ½ cup heavy cream, room temperature; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt (optional)

Isabella

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Homemade Classic caramel sauce is a decadent treat that elevates any dessert. Whether drizzled over ice cream, cakes, or stirred into your favorite beverages, this classic caramel sauce is the perfect balance of rich, buttery sweetness. With only five simple ingredients and a few quick steps, you can create a silky, golden sauce that’s guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients:

1 cup granulated sugar

6 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed

½ cup heavy cream (at room temperature)

1 tsp vanilla extract

Pinch of salt (optional, for added depth)

Directions:

Melt the Sugar:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, stir the sugar constantly using a wooden spoon. The sugar will clump up but continue to stir as it melts into a smooth, amber-colored liquid.

Add Butter:
Once the sugar has melted, carefully add the cubed butter. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble vigorously. Stir until the butter is fully incorporated.

Pour in the Cream:
Slowly pour in the room-temperature heavy cream while continuing to stir. The sauce will bubble up again. Let it boil for about 1 minute, then remove the saucepan from the heat.

Add Flavor:
Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt (if using) for added flavor. Let the caramel cool for 5–10 minutes before transferring it to a glass jar or container.

Store the Sauce:
Store your homemade caramel sauce in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Warm it slightly before serving to return it to a pourable consistency.

Serving Tips:

Warming: If the caramel sauce has been stored in the refrigerator, it will likely solidify. To return it to a pourable consistency, gently reheat it. You can do this in the microwave in short bursts (15-20 seconds at a time) or over a double boiler on the stove. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions:

Ice Cream: Drizzle over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a classic treat.

Pancakes or Waffles: Use as a delicious topping for breakfast.

Cakes and Cupcakes: Pour over or fill cakes and cupcakes for added sweetness.

Coffee Drinks: Stir into coffee, lattes, or hot chocolate for a caramel-flavored beverage.

Fruit: Serve with fresh fruits like apples or pears for a sweet dip.

Presentation: For a more elegant touch, serve the caramel sauce in a small dish or ramekin alongside your dessert, allowing guests to drizzle it to their liking.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store the caramel sauce in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 weeks. Make sure the container is properly sealed to prevent the sauce from absorbing any odors from the fridge.

Freezing: If you’d like to keep the caramel sauce for a longer period, you can freeze it. Transfer the sauce to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag (leave some space for expansion). It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, do so gently to avoid scorching. Use the microwave in short intervals or reheat over a double boiler, stirring frequently. If the sauce has thickened too much after refrigeration or freezing, you can stir in a little bit of cream or milk to reach the desired consistency.

Avoid Direct Heat:
When reheating, avoid heating the caramel sauce directly on high heat, as it can cause the sugars to burn and develop a bitter taste.

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FAQs:

How do I fix a caramel sauce that’s too hard after refrigeration?

If your caramel sauce becomes too hard after being refrigerated, gently reheat it to restore its pourable consistency. Use the microwave in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between, or reheat it over a double boiler on the stove. If needed, stir in a little heavy cream or milk to adjust the texture.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter for this recipe?

Yes, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand. Just be cautious when adding additional salt, as the salted butter will already contribute some saltiness. Start with a pinch and taste before adding more.

How can I make this caramel sauce dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version of this caramel sauce, substitute the unsalted butter with a non-dairy butter or margarine, and use a dairy-free cream alternative such as coconut cream or almond milk. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture might differ slightly from the traditional version.

Can I add flavor variations to the caramel sauce?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors by adding extracts or spices. For example, you can incorporate a teaspoon of sea salt for salted caramel, or add a splash of bourbon or coffee extract for a unique twist. Just be sure to add these flavors after removing the sauce from the heat to avoid altering the cooking process.

Conclusion:

This classic caramel sauce is a must-have for any dessert lover. With its rich, buttery flavor and smooth consistency, it’s perfect for drizzling over your favorite treats or incorporating into recipes. Best of all, it’s simple to make in just 15 minutes!

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