5 Minute Homemade Salted Caramel
This rich and buttery homemade salted caramel is perfect for drizzling over desserts, stirring into coffee, or enjoying by the spoonful. Made with just sugar, butter, and heavy cream, it's incredibly simple and comes together in just a few minutes. The addition of flaky sea salt gives it the perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness.
Ingredients
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, room temperature and cut into cubes
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream, room temperature
1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions
Melt the sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar in an even layer. Stir constantly with a heatproof spatula as the sugar melts and begins to turn into a light amber color. (Be patient; the sugar will clump up before it completely melts into a liquid.)
Add the butter: Once the sugar is fully melted and a deep amber color, carefully add the butter cubes. BE CAUTIOUS, as the mixture will bubble up rapidly. Stir continuously until the butter is fully melted and incorporated, about 2 minutes.
Add the heavy cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. The mixture will bubble up again, but keep stirring until the caramel smooths out.
Let the caramel simmer for about 1-2 minutes, thickening slightly.
Stir in the salt: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the flaky sea salt. Adjust the salt to your taste, adding more for a stronger salted caramel flavor.
Cool the caramel: Allow the caramel to cool for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a jar or container. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
Enjoy this salted caramel on ice cream, brownies, cakes, or even straight from the spoon!
Notes
Storage: Store your salted caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat in the microwave for 10-20 seconds to soften it before using.
Caution: Be careful when working with hot sugar as it can cause burns. Stir slowly and use a long-handled spoon or spatula for safety.
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 10-15 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup of caramel
