Homemade Caramel Recipe – Simple and Delicious
Making caramel at home is easier than you think! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich, buttery, and smooth caramel sauce perfect for drizzling over desserts, stirring into coffee, or enjoying by the spoonful
Equipment
- Medium saucepan (heavy-bottomed is best)
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Heatproof container (for storing caramel)
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Granulated sugar
- 6 Tbsp Unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
- ½ Cup Heavy cream
- ¼ Tsp Salt (optional, but recommended)
- ½ Tsp Vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Melt the SugarPlace the sugar in a dry saucepan over medium heat.Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon or whisk as the sugar begins to melt.It will form clumps at first, but keep stirring, and it will turn into a golden liquid.
- Add the ButterOnce the sugar is fully melted and amber-colored, carefully add the butter.Be cautious—this will make the caramel bubble up! Stir continuously until the butter is melted and combined.
- Slowly Add the CreamPour in the heavy cream slowly while stirring. The caramel will bubble up again—this is normal!Keep stirring until everything is mixed smoothly.
- Add Flavor & CoolRemove from heat and stir in the salt and vanilla extract (if using).Let the caramel cool for 5–10 minutes, then transfer to a heatproof jar or container.
- Store & UseUse warm for drizzling over desserts, or let it cool completely for a thicker texture.Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks and reheat before using.
Video
Notes
- Watch the sugar closely—it can burn in seconds! If it turns too dark, start over.
- Use room-temperature butter and cream to prevent the caramel from seizing (turning lumpy).
- If your caramel hardens too much, reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stove.
- For salted caramel, add up to ½ teaspoon of salt for a richer taste.