There’s something magical about the rich, buttery flavor of salted caramel that makes it a universal favorite. Whether it’s drizzled over ice cream, slathered on brownies, or simply savored by the spoonful, this divine concoction has the power to brighten even the gloomiest of days.
I still remember the first time I tasted salted caramel; it was like a flavor explosion in my mouth. The sweet and salty balance was so perfect that I could hardly believe my taste buds. Now, whenever I whip up a batch of salted caramel, it feels like I’m inviting my friends and family into a warm hug of sweetness and nostalgia.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This salted caramel recipe is incredibly easy to make at home with just a few ingredients
- The flavors are rich and indulgent, making it a true treat for your taste buds
- Its gorgeous golden hue adds an elegant touch to any dessert table
- Plus, you can use it in various dishes or enjoy it straight from the jar!
The first time I made salted caramel, my friends couldn’t get enough; I barely had any left for myself!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Granulated Sugar: Use high-quality sugar for the best caramel color and flavor; avoid powdered sugar here.
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Unsalted Butter: Choose good butter; its richness is essential for that creamy texture.
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Heavy Cream: Full-fat cream gives your caramel its luxurious consistency; low-fat won’t cut it!
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Sea Salt: Opt for flaky sea salt to enhance the sweetness while adding that delightful savory kick.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
**Getting Ready**: Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a heavy-bottomed saucepan and a whisk to keep things smooth and creamy.
**Heating the Sugar**: In your saucepan over medium heat, pour in the granulated sugar. Stir constantly until it melts into a beautiful amber color; watch closely, as sugar can go from perfect to burnt in seconds!
**Incorporating Butter**: Once your sugar reaches that golden hue, carefully add in the unsalted butter while whisking vigorously. It will bubble furiously—don’t panic! Just keep mixing until fully combined.
**Adding Cream**: Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream while continuing to whisk. The mixture will bubble up again but keep stirring until it’s smooth and glossy. This step is where the magic happens!
**Finishing Touches**: Remove your saucepan from heat and stir in sea salt to taste. Start with a pinch; you can always add more if you’re feeling adventurous!
**Cooling Down**: Allow your salted caramel to cool slightly before pouring it into a glass jar or container. It thickens as it cools, so don’t worry if it’s still runny at this stage.
Now you have perfectly homemade salted caramel! Use it generously on desserts or simply enjoy it by itself (no judgment here).
You Must Know
- Salted caramel is a delightful treat that can elevate any dessert
- The balance of sweet and salty creates a flavor explosion that keeps everyone coming back for more
- Pair it with ice cream for an unforgettable experience at your next gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by melting sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until golden brown. Then, carefully add butter and cream for a silky texture. This sequence ensures you avoid burning the sugar while creating that perfect salted caramel.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different salts, like smoked or pink Himalayan, to give your salted caramel a unique twist. You can also add vanilla extract for added depth in flavor or even a splash of bourbon for an adult version.
Storing & Reheating
Store salted caramel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. When reheating, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of cream to restore its original consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use granulated sugar for a smooth melting process; other sugars can clump
- Be cautious when adding cream as it may bubble vigorously
- Let the mixture cool completely before storing to avoid condensation
Cooking with salted caramel reminds me of my first attempt at making it—my friends were skeptical but curious. When I finally served them mini cheesecakes topped with my creation, their faces lit up like kids at Christmas!
FAQ
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for salted caramel?
Yes, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor and richer color.
How do I fix grainy salted caramel?
If your caramel is grainy, reheat it gently while stirring until smooth again.
What desserts pair well with salted caramel?
Salted caramel complements ice cream, brownies, pancakes, and even popcorn beautifully!
Salted Caramel
Salted caramel is a luscious blend of sweet and salty flavors that can elevate any dessert. Perfect for drizzling over ice cream, brownies, or enjoying straight from the jar, this delightful treat is easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients. Its rich, buttery texture and warm golden hue will impress your family and friends, making every occasion feel special.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings (2 tbsp each) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Sauce making
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp flaky sea salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar while stirring constantly until it reaches a deep amber color.
- Carefully whisk in the unsalted butter until fully combined and bubbly.
- Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream while continuously whisking until smooth and glossy.
- Remove from heat and stir in the flaky sea salt to taste.
- Let cool slightly before transferring to a glass jar; it will thicken as it cools.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 30g
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
