It is so easy to learn how to make homemade caramel sauce recipe. This is seriously so decadent and creamy. Spoon this over ice cream, Apple Pie, fruit and anything you like.
This caramel sauce is heavenly. I have to stop myself from just eating it from the jar. It is amazing on No Churn Vanilla Ice Cream, Apple Cobbler and more.
Homemade sauce recipes are so much better than storebought. You might also like our Homemade Butterscotch Sauce or the The Best Blueberry Sauce.
Table of contents
- Why this recipe works
- Ingredients
- How to make caramel sauce
- Storage
- How to use caramel sauce
- Frequently Asked Questions
- More Caramel recipes
Why this recipe works
It is so easy to make and ready in minutes. Skip the store-bought jars and taste the difference with this homemade sauce. You will not be disappointed.
This recipe is far better than store-bought caramels or syrups. The flavor is rich and delicious without corn syrup.
Ingredients
- light brown sugar, packed
- heavy cream
- unsalted butter
- salt
- vanilla extract
You can see the entire ingredient list at the bottom of the page.
How to make caramel sauce
Step 1. First, you will need a saucepan. Add the butter, brown sugar, salt and heavy whipping cream to the pan.
Step 2. Next, bring this mixture to a boil and allow the sugar to dissolve. Let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes once it starts to bubble. Make sure to stir it constantly with a wooden spoon. It will be a deep amber color. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Storage
Give the caramel enough time to cool a little and pour it into a jar or container with lid. We like to use mason jars to store the salted caramel sauce.Place in the fridge.
Allow to come to room temperature when ready to use. You can also reheat it using medium low heat.
How to use caramel sauce
- Caramel Apple Dump Cake – This is even better with homemade caramel sauce drizzled on top and sea salt.
- Mini Brownie Bites. Top with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream. It is so amazing.
- Easy caramel apple nachos recipe – Perfect for parties or family movie night.
- Caramel Apple Ice Cream– Caramel ice cream is even more delicious topped with homemade caramel sauce.
- Crock Pot Apple Pie Dump Cake – This cake is wonderful with ice cream and a drizzle of caramel.
- Apple Slices – I often just cup up apples and let the kids dip the slices into the yummy sauce. Such an easy but tasty treat.
- Top on Ice cream – This is delicious on ice cream. See all our Ice Cream Sundae Toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need to refrigerate homemade caramel sauce?
Yes, it needs to be refrigerated. It will keep up to 2 weeks as long as you store it inside an airtight container.
Serve immediately or store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in airtight sealed container.
How to reheat?
To reheat, cook for 30 seconds in a microwave safe bowl. Stir and heat in 10 second intervals until it is heated through and the desired consistency.
You will definitely need to reheat the sauce when ready to enjoy. It can become quite thick once cool.
Make sure to reheat the sauce in increments stirring in between so it does not burn.
Do I need a Candy Thermometer?
You don’t need a candy thermometer to make this homemade caramel recipe. Just make sure to follow the step-by-step photos instructions and pay careful attention to the cooking time as it boils.
Can I use this caramel sauce for caramel apples?
No, this sauce is not thick enough to coat caramel apples. However, it is perfect for dipping apple slices or drizzling over apple nachos.
Why isn’t my caramel sauce thickening?
You may need to simmer the sauce longer over medium heat. Just remember that the sauce will continue to thicken significantly as it cools.
Often it will appear thin and you may think it isn’t going to be the right consistency. However, once it sits awhile and cools, it thickens a lot.
Don’t make the mistake of assuming it will stay thin and over cooking the sauce. You will really see a big change in the consistency once it has cooled.
More Caramel recipes
- Caramel Chocolate Poke Cake
- Caramel Dip Recipe
- Homemade Caramel Popcorn
- Salted Caramel Fudge
- Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
Make this easy caramel sauce today. Then come back and leave a comment.
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Homemade Caramel Sauce
4.30 from 47 votes
It is so easy to learn how to make caramel sauce. This is seriously so decadent and creamy. Spoon this over ice cream, apple pie, fruit and more!
Prep Time 2 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 12 minutes mins
Servings 16 (makes 2.5 cups)
Cuisine American
Course Dessert
Calories 211
Author Carrie Barnard
Ingredients
- 2 cups light brown sugar packed
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup 1 stick unsalted butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
Instructions
In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, salt and heavy whipping cream
Bring to boil and cook stirring constantly for 5-7 minutes or until thickened
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract
Let cool slightly
Add to jar or container with lid
Serve immediately or store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in airtight sealed container
To reheat, cook for 30 seconds in a microwave safe bowl. Stir and heat for an additional 10 seconds or longer if necessary
Nutrition Facts
Calories 211kcal, Carbohydrates 28g, Protein 1g, Fat 11g, Saturated Fat 7g, Cholesterol 36mg, Sodium 51mg, Potassium 50mg, Sugar 27g, Vitamin A 396IU, Vitamin C 1mg, Calcium 34mg, Iron 1mg
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About the Author
Hi, I’m Carrie. Welcome to Desserts on a Dime!
I’m on a mission to help you create delicious desserts on a budget and do not require a ton of time. Together, we are going to make something sweet that the entire family will love!
