Caramel sauce is a delightful and versatile condiment that adds a touch of sweetness to various recipes and desserts. Whether drizzled over ice cream, incorporated into baked goods, or used as a dip for fruits, this homemade caramel sauce is sure to satisfy your cravings for ooey-gooey goodness. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a batch of caramel sauce to have on hand whenever you desire a decadent treat.
Caramel Sauce Ingredients:
To make this luscious caramel sauce, you’ll need the following three ingredients:
Sugar: Granulated sugar works perfectly for this recipe, providing the ideal sweetness.
Butter: Opt for salted butter, although unsalted can be used as well. Ensure that the butter is at room temperature or slightly warmer, but not melted. Proper temperature control is crucial for caramel making.
Heavy Cream: Also known as heavy whipping cream, make sure it is at room temperature before incorporating it into the sauce. If needed, you can gently heat it in the microwave for 30-40 seconds, stirring well afterward. Please note that milk is not a suitable substitute for this recipe.
Tools for Homemade Caramel:
For best results, it’s recommended to use a heavy-bottomed, high-sided saucepan when making caramel sauce. This type of pan distributes heat evenly and minimizes the risk of scorching.
Storage Tips:
To store your homemade caramel sauce, it is preferable to use a glass jar, although any airtight container will suffice. If you plan to reheat the sauce while still in the container, glass is the better option. When refrigerated, the sauce may slightly harden due to the colder temperature. It should remain fresh for a few weeks in the refrigerator.
Freezing Instructions:
If you wish to freeze the caramel sauce, consider dividing it into smaller portions as it will need to return to room temperature before use. Small airtight jars are convenient for freezing, but any container with a secure seal will work. To minimize the presence of air, fill the containers as much as possible without causing spills.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature
- ½ cup heavy cream, at room temperature
Instructions:
In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan set over medium heat, add the granulated sugar. Stir continuously, being cautious not to let it burn. The sugar will gradually turn into an amber color, which may take approximately 10-15 minutes.
Once the sugar has completely melted, add the room temperature butter. Continuously whisk until the butter is fully melted and combined with the sugar mixture. During this step, the sugar mixture will bubble up, which is a desired reaction. If the butter separates, remove the pan from heat and continue whisking until fully combined again.
After achieving a smooth consistency, cook the mixture for an additional minute. Slowly drizzle in the room temperature heavy cream while stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for another minute.
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the caramel sauce to thicken as it cools. The sauce can be used warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
Congratulations! You have successfully created a batch of homemade caramel sauce that can be enjoyed in various ways. From enhancing desserts to complementing your favorite treats, this versatile sauce will add a delightful touch of sweetness. Feel free to experiment and indulge in the deliciousness of your homemade caramel sauce whenever your taste buds desire a delectable treat.
