Silky Smooth Salted Caramel Sauce

By Sally ThompsonJune 19, 2025

Every baker needs a killer salted caramel sauce! My recipe is easy, silky smooth, and perfect for drizzling. Get my tips for the best flavour now! ... Baking - Desserts

Table of Contents

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Alright, let's dive into the delicious world of salted caramel sauce ! ever had that moment where a dessert just needs something extra? something… decadent? honestly, how to make salted caramel sauce is a skill every home cook should have.

A Taste of Heaven: Your Own Salted Caramel Sauce

This salted caramel sauce recipe is proper lush. it is creamy, sweet, and salty, all at the same time. it’s like a hug in a jar, and it's way easier to make than you think.

Where Did This Liquid Gold Come From?

Salted caramel has French roots. Think fancy "caramel au beurre salé." It's now a modern favourite. This easy caramel recipe is simple, and tastes so good on almost anything.

How Hard Is It To Make?

It's easy as pie! Prep takes 5 minutes. Cooking is about 10- 15 minutes. You'll get about 1 1/2 cups. That's enough for loads of treats.

Why You Need This In Your Life

This recipe is a game-changer. a drizzle of this salted caramel sauce on ice cream…forget about it! it is also great as salted caramel for apples .

Perfect for a fancy dinner party or a netflix binge. it's quick, easy, and tastes amazing!

The Magic Ingredients

Here’s what you need. Remember to check the pantry first! Don't go running to Tesco if you already have these. You need:

1 cup sugar
6 tablespoons butter
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla.

Silky Smooth Salted Caramel Sauce presentation

Sweet Benefits

Did you know a little bit of caramel can lift your mood? it has something to do with sugar, i guess! this homemade salted caramel recipe will definitely be your go-to.

Plus, you'll be able to make some fantastic salted caramel dessert recipes . next time, we are gonna look at that!

Alright, so you're ready to dive into the magical world of salted caramel sauce ? honestly, once you nail this, you'll be putting it on everything .

I know i do! it’s the bee's knees. we all need a killer caramel recipe easy in our life.

Ingredients & Equipment Deets

Let's break down exactly what you'll need. Trust me, it's not as intimidating as you might think. A great caramel starts with getting the basics right.

Main Ingredients Breakdown

Here's what you'll need to whip up about 1 ½ cups of liquid gold, enough to satisfy any sweet tooth:

Granulated Sugar: 1 cup (200g) . Standard white sugar is your friend here.
Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons (85g) , cut into pieces. Quality butter makes a difference.
Heavy Cream: ½ cup (120ml) . This is essential for that silky smooth texture. Don't skimp.
Sea Salt: 1 teaspoon (6g) , or to taste. I like a slightly coarser sea salt for that lovely salty kick.
Vanilla Extract: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) . Adds a nice depth of flavor.

For the butter, try to use good quality stuff. You know, that proper creamy butter your nan used to buy.

Seasoning Notes for a Flavor Bomb

Now, let's talk about flavor enhancers. This quick and easy caramel sauce is already divine, but you can take it to the next level:

Vanilla & Salt: This dynamic duo enhances the sweetness perfectly. I've been known to use vanilla bean paste instead of extract for an extra punch of vanilla flavour.
Spice It Up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth. I tried it once with a tiny bit of cardamom – mind blown!
Boozy caramel: A splash of bourbon or rum for an adult twist. Add it after removing the sauce from the heat.

If you don't have sea salt, regular table salt will do in a pinch. But seriously, get some sea salt. It's a game-changer.

Essential Equipment

Keep it simple. you don't need fancy gadgets for the best salted caramel sauce recipe . i once tried using a super-thin saucepan and ended up with burnt sugar.

Learn from my mistakes!

Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: Stainless steel or enamel-coated cast iron is ideal. This helps distribute heat evenly.
Whisk: A good whisk is key for smooth caramel.
Heat-Resistant Spatula: To stir the sugar and scrape the bottom of the pan.
Liquid Measuring Cup: For accurate measurements.

Don't have a fancy saucepan? just use the best one you've got. a heavy bottom is key to stopping the sugar from burning.

The goal of the game to make homemade salted caramel .

You know what i love most? it is using salted caramel for apples . this recipe can be your next inspiration for salted caramel dessert recipes .

Or you can simply top your salted caramel ice cream topping .

Now, get ready to create something truly amazing! I have referred this recipe to write this outline and here is where you can find it : https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/269557/easy-salted-caramel-sauce/

Cooking Method: Nail That Salted Caramel Sauce!

Right, listen up, buttercup. let's talk salted caramel sauce . honestly, everyone thinks it's some kind of cheffy magic, but it's dead easy.

I swear! anyone can how to make salted caramel sauce , and it is worth it every time. i'm talking licking-the-spoon levels of good.

We want a lovely quick and easy caramel sauce that tastes amazing. a great salted caramel for apples or to drizzle over your salted caramel ice cream topping .

Prep Steps: Mise en Place, Mate!

First things first. get organised. it's all about the mise en place . measure out 1 cup granulated sugar, 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cubed, yeah?), and ½ cup heavy cream .

Got them? good. oh, and grab 1 teaspoon of sea salt and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract . don't be messing about when the sugar's burning.

Oh my gosh that reminds me of the time i burnt the caramel so badly it set off the smoke alarm.

Honestly, it smelled like burnt sugar for a week. safety reminder: hot sugar is like lava. respect it. no splashing, no messing.

Step-by-Step: Caramel Confidence

Melt the sugar. Medium heat in a heavy-bottomed pan. Don't leave it! Stir. Keep stirring. Until it's amber. Visual cue: Like a lovely, rich honey color. Don't let it get too dark.
Butter up! Take the pan off the heat. Chuck in your butter. Whisk like you mean it! It'll bubble.
Cream Time! Slowly pour in the cream, whisking. It’ll bubble again. Don't panic!
Low and Slow. Back on low heat. Stir until smooth. Coats the back of a spoon.
Salt & Vanilla. Off the heat again. Add salt (taste it, adjust as needed) and vanilla.
Cool it, dude. Let it cool a bit before putting it in a jar. Thickens as it chills.

Pro Tips: Caramel Kung Fu

A heavy-bottomed pan is your best friend. it prevents burning. trust me. you can even use enamel-coated cast iron! don't walk away when the sugar is melting.

It goes from perfect to charcoal in seconds. if it splits? add a tablespoon of boiling water and whisk like your life depends on it.

You can create amazing salted caramel dessert recipes . this is a best salted caramel sauce recipe guaranteed.

See? Homemade salted caramel isn't scary. Now go forth and caramel-ise! I bet Sally McKenney Salted Caramel Sauce Sallys Baking will be proud of your version.

Alright, let's talk about my absolute favourite part, recipe notes! this salted caramel sauce is more than just a recipe, it's an experience.

Think of it as a blank canvas for your sweet tooth.

Serving it Up: Ideas for Your Salted Caramel

Presentation is key, right? a simple drizzle can transform a plain scoop of ice cream into a gourmet salted caramel ice cream topping .

How about some salted caramel for apples ? it's the perfect autumnal treat!

Honestly, the plating doesn't have to be fancy. a simple swirl on a plate next to a slice of apple pie? chef's kiss! pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a strong cup of coffee to cut through the richness.

Storage Secrets: Keeping Your Salted Caramel Fresh

Oh my gosh, who even has leftovers of homemade salted caramel ? But if you do, I got you covered!

Pop that salted caramel sauce in an airtight container. it'll keep in the fridge for up to two weeks. you can also freeze it! just thaw it out overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir before using.

Reheating is easy! a quick zap in the microwave or a gentle warm-up on the stovetop will do the trick.

Twists and Turns: Variations on a Theme

Let's get creative! Need a dairy-free option? Use coconut cream and vegan butter. Boom! You've got a totally delicious vegan salted caramel sauce .

Seasonal swaps? In the fall, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy vibe. And remember, this is a caramel recipe easy to change!

Nutrition 101: What You're Getting

Alright, so salted caramel sauce Sallys baking it's not exactly health food. But hey, a little indulgence never hurt anyone, right? Each tablespoon is about 70 calories. Key benefit? Pure happiness.

You know?, if you have search for how to make salted caramel sauce , then you know how delicious it can be, and this quick and easy caramel sauce version is no exception.

So, what are you waiting for? get in that kitchen and get caramelizing! you've got this! there are plenty of salted caramel dessert recipes waiting for you.

And don't forget, this might just be the best salted caramel sauce recipe you've ever tried.

Delicious Salted Caramel Sauce: Ultimate Recipe Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Help! My salted caramel sauce is grainy! What went wrong?

Oh dear, a grainy caramel is a right pain! This usually happens when sugar crystals haven't fully dissolved. Make sure you're stirring the sugar constantly as it melts, and avoid any undissolved crystals splashing onto the sides of the pan. If it does happen, you can try adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or corn syrup to the sugar as it melts, which can help prevent crystallization.

Can I make salted caramel sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salted caramel sauce is a great make-ahead treat. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. It will thicken up when chilled, so simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before using to get that lovely drizzling consistency back. Think of it as your secret weapon for dessert emergencies!

My caramel is rock solid! How do I fix it?

Don't despair; you can rescue it! This often happens if the salted caramel sauce is overcooked. Add a tablespoon or two of water or cream back into the pan and gently heat it over low heat, stirring constantly until it's smooth again. Keep a close eye on it, though, and don't let it boil, or you might end up back where you started!

What's the best type of salt to use for salted caramel sauce?

For the best flavour, I'd recommend using a good quality sea salt flakes, like Maldon. The flaky texture and delicate flavour really complement the sweetness of the caramel. You can also use kosher salt or fleur de sel. Table salt will work in a pinch, but you might need to use a little less, as it's more intensely salty.

Can I use a substitute for heavy cream when making this salted caramel sauce?

You can use half-and-half, but be aware that the salted caramel sauce will be less rich and may take a bit longer to thicken. For a vegan option, try using full-fat coconut cream (the thick part from a can of refrigerated coconut milk). Just remember that the flavour profile will be slightly different, but still delicious! Think of it as a tropical twist on a classic.

How do I store my homemade salted caramel sauce to keep it fresh?

To keep your homemade salted caramel sauce in tip-top shape, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container – a mason jar works perfectly! Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. When you're ready to use it, gently warm it up. A few seconds in the microwave or a quick stir in a saucepan over low heat will restore its smooth, drizzly texture, ready to elevate any dessert from "meh" to marvellous.