Name: Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 12 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup white sugar; 2 tbsp corn syrup; ½ cup butter; 1 tbsp whole milk; 1 tsp vanilla; ¼ tsp sea salt

Homemade salted caramel sauce is a sweet and salty delight that elevates any dessert. This recipe is easy to make, with just a few common ingredients. The sauce is rich, gooey, and full of flavor, making it the perfect accompaniment for ice cream, cakes, and more.

Photos of Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe

All of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in most households. However, when shopping at the supermarket, pay close attention to the type of salt you choose. The recipe calls for sea salt, which has a different taste and texture than table salt.

Ingredients for Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce

White sugar: The main sweetening agent, it caramelizes to give the sauce its color and flavor.

Corn syrup: It helps to prevent crystallization, keeping the sauce smooth.

Butter: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.

Whole milk: Thins the sauce and provides a slight creaminess.

Vanilla: Enhances the flavor of the sauce, giving it depth.

Sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.

One reader, Bradley Stacey says:

This homemade salted caramel sauce recipe is a game-changer! The perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness. It's incredibly easy to make and tastes divine on ice cream, brownies, or drizzled over pancakes. I can't get enough of it! Highly recommended for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Bradley Stacey

Techniques Required for Making Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce

How to make homemade salted caramel sauce: A step-by-step guide to creating a rich and luscious caramel sauce from scratch.

How to caramelize sugar and corn syrup: Detailed instructions on heating the sugar and corn syrup to achieve a caramel color and flavor.

How to incorporate butter into the caramel: Explanation of adding butter to the caramel and whisking it in until smooth.

How to add milk and vanilla: Instructions for adding milk and vanilla to the caramel and stirring until well combined.

How to season with sea salt: Guidance on adding sea salt to the caramel sauce for a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.

How to cool and serve: Tips for cooling the caramel sauce and serving it on favorite desserts, with the option to garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt.

How To Make Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce

For a sweet and slightly salty treat, try making these salted caramel sauces at home using accessible items like milk and butter. Try it!

Preparation: 2 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 12 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½cupwhite sugar
2tbspcorn syrup
½cupbutter
1tbspwhole milk
1tspvanilla
¼tspsea salt,plus more for sprinkling

Instructions

Combine the sugar and corn syrup in a saucepan.
Cook on medium-high heat, stirring constantly until it turns into a distinct caramel color.
Once it is caramel-colored, add the butter and whisk.
Add the milk and stir until smooth and combined.
Add sea salt.
Let cool, serve on favorite desserts and garnish with a bit more sea salt.

Nutrition

Calories: 112.21kcal
Fat: 7.72g
Saturated Fat: 4.88g
Trans Fat: 0.31g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.00g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.29g
Carbohydrates: 11.26g
Sugar: 11.24g
Protein: 0.12g
Cholesterol: 20.46mg
Sodium: 43.16mg
Calcium: 4.31mg
Potassium: 4.65mg
Iron: 0.01mg
Vitamin A: 65.27µg

Crucial Technique Tip for Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce Success

To ensure your caramel sauce doesn't crystallize, avoid stirring the sugar and corn syrup mixture once it starts to boil. Instead, gently swirl the pan to mix. Also, using a clean pastry brush, brush down the sides of the pan with a little water to dissolve any sugar crystals. This will help you achieve a smooth and silky sauce.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Salted Caramel Sauce

Prep ahead: Prepare the ingredients and measure them out in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use a candy thermometer: This will help you monitor the caramelization process and prevent burning, saving time and ensuring a perfect result.

Multi-task: While the caramel is cooking, prepare the other components of your dish to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Quick cleanup: Fill the saucepan with water and bring it to a boil to dissolve any hardened caramel remnants, making cleanup easier.

Organize your workspace: Having all your tools and ingredients readily accessible will help you work more efficiently and save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe

white sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar can add a deeper flavor and color to the caramel sauce, giving it a slightly more complex taste.
corn syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor to the caramel sauce.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle tropical flavor and richness to the caramel sauce, while also making it dairy-free.
whole milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can add a creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor to the caramel sauce, making it suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free option.
vanilla - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, caramel-like flavor to the sauce, enhancing its sweetness and depth.
sea salt - Substitute with Himalayan pink salt: Himalayan pink salt can provide a similar salty flavor while also adding a subtle mineral complexity to the caramel sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce

Elevate the plating: When presenting the homemade salted caramel sauce, consider using elegant and minimalistic plating. A simple drizzle or a carefully placed dollop can create a visually appealing presentation.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Pair the salted caramel sauce with a complementary dessert that offers a contrast in textures. For example, consider serving it with a crunchy almond biscuit or a smooth and creamy panna cotta.
Utilize garnishes: Enhance the visual appeal of the dish by incorporating edible garnishes such as delicate gold leaf or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted nuts. These elements can add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the precision of the sauce drizzle or placement on the plate. A carefully executed presentation demonstrates attention to detail and elevates the overall dining experience.
Consider the color palette: When plating the salted caramel sauce, think about the color palette of the accompanying elements. Opt for dessert components that complement the rich, golden hue of the sauce to create a visually striking presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Salted Caramel Sauce at Home

Saucepan: A saucepan is used for cooking the sugar and corn syrup over medium-high heat to make the caramel sauce.
Whisk: A whisk is used to stir the caramel sauce and ensure that the ingredients are well combined.
Measuring cup: A measuring cup is used to accurately measure the sugar, butter, and milk for the caramel sauce.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to measure the corn syrup, vanilla, and sea salt for the caramel sauce.
Stove: The stove is used to cook the sugar and corn syrup in the saucepan over medium-high heat to make the caramel sauce.
Spatula: A spatula is used to scrape the sides of the saucepan and ensure that all the caramel sauce is properly mixed and cooked.
Heatproof spoon: A heatproof spoon is used to stir the caramel sauce while it is cooking and to add the butter and milk.
Container: A container is used to store the homemade salted caramel sauce once it has cooled.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Salted Caramel Sauce

Let the salted caramel sauce cool completely to room temperature before storing. This allows the sauce to thicken and develop its rich flavor.
Transfer the cooled sauce to an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure the container is clean and dry to prevent any contamination.
If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any undissolved sugar crystals or bits of crystallized caramel.
Label the container with the date of preparation and store it in the refrigerator. The salted caramel sauce will keep well for up to 2 weeks when properly refrigerated.
To freeze the sauce, pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion during freezing. Label the container with the date and contents.
Place the container in the freezer, where the salted caramel sauce can be stored for up to 3 months.
When ready to use the frozen sauce, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, give the sauce a good stir to redistribute any separated ingredients.
If the sauce appears too thick after thawing, you can gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until it reaches the desired consistency. You may also add a splash of heavy cream or milk to thin it out if needed.
Always use a clean utensil when scooping out the sauce to maintain its quality and prevent introducing any bacteria that could cause spoilage.

How To Reheat Leftover Salted Caramel Sauce

The best way to reheat leftover homemade salted caramel sauce is to use a double boiler method. Place the sauce in a heat-safe bowl and set it over a pot of simmering water. Stir the sauce gently until it's heated through and smooth. This method ensures that the sauce heats evenly without burning or separating.
Another option is to reheat the caramel sauce in the microwave. Transfer the sauce to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 15-second intervals, stirring well between each interval, until it's warm and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the sauce, as it can cause the butter to separate from the sugar.
If your leftover salted caramel sauce has become too thick after refrigeration, you can thin it out by stirring in a small amount of whole milk or heavy cream while reheating. This will help restore its smooth, pourable consistency.
When reheating, be sure to use a whisk or spoon to stir the sauce well, as this will help redistribute any sea salt that may have settled at the bottom of the container during storage.
Once the caramel sauce is heated through, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the sauce has lost some of its saltiness, you can add a pinch more sea salt to taste.
After reheating, let the sauce cool for a few minutes before serving, as it will be extremely hot. Drizzle the warm salted caramel sauce over your favorite desserts, such as ice cream, brownies, or apple pie, for an indulgent treat.

Interesting Fact About Salted Caramel Sauce

Salted caramel sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of desserts, such as ice cream, cakes, and brownies.

Is Making Salted Caramel Sauce at Home Cost-Effective?

This homemade salted caramel sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for adding a touch of decadence to desserts. With just a few basic pantry staples, you can create a luxurious caramel sauce that elevates your favorite treats. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $5, making it an economical choice for enhancing desserts. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is Salted Caramel Sauce Healthy or Unhealthy?

This homemade salted caramel sauce recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - white sugar, corn syrup, and butter - are all high in calories and low in nutritional value. The excessive amount of sugar and fat in this recipe can contribute to various health issues if consumed regularly, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

However, there are ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising too much on taste:

Reduce the amount of sugar and corn syrup, or replace them with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
Use unsalted butter to control the sodium content
Opt for low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative, such as almond milk, to decrease the overall fat content
Increase the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor without adding extra calories
Experiment with using a smaller amount of higher-quality sea salt to maintain the salted caramel flavor while reducing sodium intake

By making these adjustments, you can create a healthier version of this salted caramel sauce that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to indulging in treats like this. Enjoy it occasionally as part of a balanced diet, and be mindful of portion sizes to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Editor's Opinion on This Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe

This homemade salted caramel sauce recipe is a delightful addition to any dessert. The combination of sugar, butter, and sea salt creates a rich and indulgent flavor that will elevate your favorite treats. However, I would recommend using caution when cooking the sugar and corn syrup to avoid burning. Additionally, consider adding the sea salt to taste, as preferences for saltiness can vary. Overall, this sauce is a versatile and delicious condiment that will surely impress your guests.

Enhance Your Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: Try serving the salted caramel sauce with a side of roasted vegetables for a sweet and savory combination.

Grilled Chicken: Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over grilled chicken for a unique and delicious flavor profile.

Fruit Salad: Add a drizzle of salted caramel sauce to a refreshing fruit salad for a decadent twist on a classic dish.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Salted Caramel Sauce

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: This creamy mushroom risotto is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of earthy mushrooms and creamy risotto rice makes for a satisfying and delicious meal.

Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: Grilled peaches and creamy burrata cheese come together in this refreshing and vibrant salad. The sweetness of the peaches pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy burrata, creating a delightful summer dish.

Slow Cooker Beef Stew: This slow cooker beef stew is a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for a chilly day. The tender beef, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth come together to create a satisfying and delicious stew.

Appetizers and Main Dishes That Complement Salted Caramel Sauce

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any dinner party.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta, featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze on crispy, toasted baguette slices. It's a refreshing and vibrant starter that will leave your guests wanting more.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: For a light and flavorful main course, consider grilling salmon with a citrus marinade. The tangy flavors of lemon and orange will complement the natural richness of the fish, creating a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a summer meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Indulge in a comforting and hearty beef stroganoff, featuring tender strips of beef in a creamy mushroom sauce. Serve it over a bed of buttery egg noodles for a satisfying and classic main course that is sure to please any crowd.

Why trust this Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce Recipe:

This homemade salted caramel sauce recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover. The combination of caramelized sugar and butter creates a rich and indulgent flavor, while the addition of sea salt provides the perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe guarantees a luscious, decadent sauce that will elevate your ice cream, cakes, and pastries to a whole new level. Trust the process and savor the heavenly results.

Want to share your experience making this homemade salted caramel sauce or discuss variations on the recipe? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How long does the homemade salted caramel sauce last?

The homemade salted caramel sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Can I use salted butter instead of adding sea salt separately?

Yes, you can use salted butter instead of adding sea salt separately. Just adjust the amount of salt based on your taste preference.

Can I substitute the corn syrup with something else?

If you don't have corn syrup, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute in this recipe.

Can I reheat the caramel sauce if it becomes too thick?

Yes, you can reheat the caramel sauce gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I use this caramel sauce for savory dishes?

Absolutely! This homemade salted caramel sauce can be used to add a touch of sweetness to savory dishes like roasted meats or vegetables.