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Quick Caramel Sauce Recipe

4.9 from 72 reviews

This quick caramel sauce recipe delivers a rich and creamy topping perfect for desserts, from ice cream to cakes. Made with simple ingredients like sugar, butter, heavy cream, and a pinch of kosher salt, this sauce comes together in minutes on the stovetop, offering a luscious, buttery flavor with a slight saltiness that balances the sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ⅓ cup heavy cream
  • 1 pinch kosher salt (Diamond Crystal brand recommended)

Instructions

  1. Melt the sugar: Pour the granulated sugar evenly into a large skillet and cook over low heat without stirring. Once the sugar begins to melt, gently swirl the skillet to encourage even melting and prevent burning.
  2. Add the butter: When the sugar is fully melted into a golden amber color, add the unsalted butter and whisk continuously until the mixture is combined. Expect some sputtering as the butter melts.
  3. Incorporate the cream and salt: Slowly stir in the heavy cream while whisking. The mixture will sputter vigorously—continue whisking until smooth. Then whisk in a pinch of kosher salt for flavor balance. Immediately remove the skillet from heat to prevent overcooking.
  4. Cool and store: Transfer the hot caramel sauce to a heatproof container and allow to cool before using or storing. The sauce will thicken as it cools.

Notes

  • Use low heat to avoid burning the sugar during melting.
  • Swirling instead of stirring the sugar initially helps prevent crystallization.
  • The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
  • Rewarm gently before use if the sauce becomes too thick.
  • Use kosher salt to control seasoning precisely; adjust amount as desired.

Keywords: caramel sauce, quick caramel, homemade caramel, dessert sauce, easy caramel sauce