Homemade Caramel Sauce

Ingredients

1 cup/ 200g granulated sugar
1/4 cup / 60ml water
1/2 cup / 120ml heavy cream
4 tablespoons / 56g unsalted butter
1 teaspoon / 5g vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon / 3g salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. Preparation:

• Ensure you have all the ingredients ready, as caramel can cook quickly.
• Use a nonstick saucepan to prevent burning.

2. Creating the Caramel:

• In the saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water.
• Heat over medium-low heat, stirring gently until the sugar dissolves.
• Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture come to a simmer.
• Allow the mixture to simmer undisturbed until it turns a deep amber color. Swirl the pan occasionally to ensure even coloring.

3. Adding Cream and Butter:

• Once the caramel reaches the desired color, remove the saucepan from heat.
• Carefully and slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Be cautious, as the mixture may bubble up.
• Add the unsalted butter and stir until completely melted and incorporated.

4. Finishing Touches:

• Return the saucepan to low heat and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
• Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Adjust the amount of salt to your taste preference.

5. Cooling and Storing:

• Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before transferring it to a glass jar or container.
• The caramel sauce will thicken as it cools. Once it's at room temperature, you can refrigerate it for up to two weeks.

Your luscious homemade caramel sauce is ready to elevate your desserts, coffee, or drizzle over ice cream. Embrace the rich, velvety sweetness you've crafted with care. Whether you're sharing it with loved ones or savoring it yourself, this caramel sauce adds a touch of decadence to every dish.