🧑🍳 Ingredients (Makes about 1 cup)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (optional, to balance sweetness)
- 1–2 tbsp water (optional, to adjust consistency)
🥣 Instructions
Melt the sugar – In a medium saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula until it melts into a golden amber color .
Add the butter – Stir in the butter one piece at a time, allowing it to fully melt and incorporate before adding more.
Pour in the cream – Slowly whisk in the heavy cream. The mixture will bubble up — keep stirring until smooth.
Stir in vanilla and salt – Remove from heat and mix in vanilla and a pinch of salt for that perfect sweet-salty balance .
Cool slightly and enjoy – Let the caramel cool for 10–15 minutes (it will thicken as it cools), then drizzle, dip, or store for later.
Tips for the Best Caramel
- Use a medium or heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning.
- Stir constantly while cooking the sugar to avoid scorching.
- For a salted caramel version , add flaky sea salt on top or mix it in.
- Add 1–2 tbsp water if the caramel gets too thick after cooling.
- Store in the fridge and warm it up before use for a smooth pour.
How to Use Your Homemade Caramel Sauce
This caramel is so good, you’ll want to put it on everything .
Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it:
- Drizzle over vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt 🍦
- Dip apple slices or banana chunks for a sweet treat 🍎🍌
- Swirl into brownies or blondies before baking 🧁
- Pour over pancake stacks or waffles for breakfast bliss 🥞
- Use as a filling for crepes or donuts 🥞🍩
- Mix into coffee or hot chocolate for a rich, caramel twist ☕
Ways to Customize Your Caramel
Want to make it your own? Try these fun variations:
- 🍫 Chocolate Caramel – Stir in ¼ cup cocoa powder or chopped chocolate
- 🧈 Butter Pecan Twist – Add a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts
- 🥥 Coconut Caramel – Stir in toasted coconut flakes or coconut milk
- 🌶️ Spiced Caramel – Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne
- 🍺 Alcoholic Caramel – Stir in a splash of bourbon, rum, or coffee liqueur for a grown-up flavor boost
How to Store Homemade Caramel Sauce
- Refrigerator – Store in an airtight jar or container for up to 2 weeks . Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to restore its smooth texture.
- Freezer – Freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw in the fridge and reheat before use.
- Reheating tip – If your caramel thickens in the fridge, just add a splash of water or milk and warm it up slowly.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I use light cream or milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the caramel will be thinner and less rich . Heavy cream gives the best texture.
❓ Is this sauce safe to can or gift?
No — this is a refrigerated sauce and not suitable for long-term canning. However, it makes a great homemade gift with a label and ribbon!
❓ Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Use coconut cream and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
❓ Why is my caramel gritty?
If the sugar crystals don’t fully melt, your caramel may turn out grainy or gritty . Make sure to cook it long enough and stir constantly.
Final Thoughts
There’s no substitute for real, homemade caramel sauce — especially when it’s this easy, rich, and full of flavor .
Once you make it yourself, you’ll never go back to the store-bought stuff . It’s that good.
So go ahead — grab a saucepan, a spoon, and get ready to drizzle, dip, and swirl your way to caramel bliss .