Description
A rich, buttery homemade caramel sauce made with just five ingredients in 10 minutes. Perfect for drizzling over pancakes, ice cream, or baked goods.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons salted butter
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and stir constantly until dissolved and smooth, about 2 minutes.
2. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a rolling boil. Let bubble vigorously for exactly 1 minute without stirring.
3. Remove from heat and immediately whisk in heavy cream (it will bubble up dramatically). Continue whisking until smooth.
4. Return to medium heat and simmer 2–3 minutes, whisking constantly, until mixture coats the back of a spoon.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
Notes
Sauce will thicken significantly as it cools.
Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheat gently before using if desired.
Don’t substitute heavy cream with lighter alternatives.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American