Here’s a recipe for a Thick Caramel Sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over ice cream, cakes, pancakes, or even dipping apples! This rich, creamy caramel sauce has a deep, buttery flavor and a perfect consistency. Plus, it’s simple to make!
Thick Caramel Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for salted caramel)
- 1 tablespoon corn syrup (optional, for extra smoothness)
Instructions:
1. Melt the Butter:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it melts evenly.
2. Add the Brown Sugar and Corn Syrup:
- Once the butter is melted, add the brown sugar and corn syrup (if using). Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. Simmer and Thicken:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes. The sauce will bubble up, and the sugar will start to thicken as it cooks. Keep an eye on it and stir to ensure it doesn’t scorch.
4. Add Heavy Cream:
- Carefully add the heavy cream to the mixture. It may bubble up, so stir constantly as you add it in. Continue to simmer for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency. The caramel should coat the back of a spoon. If you want it thicker, let it simmer a little longer.
5. Add Vanilla and Salt:
- Once the caramel has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt (if using). The salt will bring out the caramel’s flavor, but if you want a pure caramel flavor, you can skip it.
6. Cool and Store:
- Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly in the pan before transferring it to a jar or container. As it cools, it will thicken even more.
- Let it cool completely at room temperature, or place it in the fridge to speed up the process. It will last in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating Tips:
- If the caramel thickens too much after cooling, simply reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds or gently warm it on the stove, adding a little extra cream or milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Tips for Perfect Caramel Sauce:
- Watch the Heat: Caramel can burn quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on the heat. Keep the flame medium to low and stir regularly, especially once the cream is added.
- Flavor Variations: For a twist, you can add a splash of bourbon, rum, or even coffee to the caramel for added depth of flavor.
- Consistency: For a thicker caramel, let it cook for a bit longer. For a thinner sauce, add a bit more cream or milk.
This Thick Caramel Sauce is perfect for topping desserts, mixing into hot drinks, or just eating by the spoonful! It’s easy to make and sure to become a favorite in your recipe box. Enjoy! 🍮
