Homemade caramel is a treat that can turn any dessert into a masterpiece. It’s surprisingly simple to make with just a few ingredients. Homemade caramel is perfect for drizzling over ice cream, mixing into coffee, or just enjoying by the spoonful. With this simple recipe, you’ll be making decadent caramel treats in no time! Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting your own rich, golden caramel at home.
Homemade Caramel
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup water
- A pinch of salt optional
Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients:
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Gather all your ingredients before starting. It’s important to work quickly once the sugar starts to melt.
Heat the Sugar:
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In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Stir until the sugar is completely moistened. Place the pan over medium heat and let it cook without stirring. You can gently swirl the pan occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Watch for Color Changes:
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As the sugar heats, it will start to bubble and change color. Keep a close eye on it. Once it turns a deep amber color, remove it from the heat. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
Add Butter:
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Carefully add the unsalted butter to the hot sugar mixture. Be cautious, as it will bubble vigorously. Stir until the butter is fully melted and combined.
Incorporate the Cream:
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Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. The mixture will bubble up again, but keep stirring until it smooths out.
Season (Optional):
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Add a pinch of salt if desired, which will enhance the flavor and balance the sweetness. Stir to combine.
Cool and Store:
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Let the caramel cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a heatproof container. It will thicken as it cools. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
