Homemade Salted Caramel Recipe
Description
This rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced salted caramel is made with just a few simple ingredients. It’s great for drizzling over ice cream, cakes, coffee, or as a dip for apples. This recipe requires no candy thermometer and comes together in less than 15 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream (room temperature)
- 1 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Melt the Sugar:
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, add the sugar.
- Stir occasionally with a heat-resistant silicone spatula or wooden spoon until it melts completely.
- The sugar will clump at first but will eventually turn into a deep amber liquid.
- Add Butter:
- Carefully add butter cubes, stirring constantly as it melts.
- The caramel will bubble up – stir until fully combined.
- Add Cream:
- Slowly pour in room-temperature heavy cream while stirring continuously.
- The mixture will bubble rapidly but will soon settle.
- Add Salt & Vanilla:
- Remove from heat, stir in sea salt and vanilla extract (if using).
- Cool & Store:
- Let the caramel cool for about 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a glass jar.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Notes
- No Thermometer Needed: You don’t need a candy thermometer, just watch for the sugar to turn a deep amber color before adding butter.
- Sugar Melting Tip: Stir sparingly once the sugar starts melting to prevent crystallization.
- Butter & Cream Temperature: Use room-temperature butter and cream to avoid extreme bubbling.
Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel
✔ Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning.
✔ Avoid stirring too much once the sugar starts melting.
✔ Be patient! Sugar can take time to caramelize properly.
✔ Use high-quality sea salt for the best flavor.
✔ Store properly in an airtight container in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle over ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or brownies.
- Mix into coffee, hot chocolate, or milkshakes.
- Use as a filling for cakes, cupcakes, or macarons.
- Dip apple slices, pretzels, or popcorn for a sweet-salty treat.
Nutritional Information (Per Tablespoon)
- Calories: ~90
- Carbs: 10g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Protein: 0g
Health Benefits of Homemade Salted Caramel
✅ No preservatives or artificial flavors compared to store-bought caramel.
✅ Rich in antioxidants from real vanilla extract.
✅ Better portion control – you decide the serving size!
✅ No high-fructose corn syrup or additives.
Q&A Section
1. Can I make salted caramel without butter?
Yes! Substitute butter with coconut oil or heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
2. Why did my caramel turn grainy?
Sugar crystallized too early – try not stirring too much while melting.
3. Can I reheat salted caramel?
Yes! Warm it in a microwave for 15–20 seconds or over low heat on the stove.
4. Can I make this into a caramel sauce?
Yes! Just add ¼ cup extra heavy cream for a thinner consistency.
5. Can I use table salt instead of sea salt?
Yes, but use less since table salt is finer and stronger in taste.
Would you like to customize this recipe for dietary preferences (e.g., vegan, keto)? 😊