Homemade Caramel

Name: Homemade Caramel
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup water; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cut into pieces); 1/2 cup heavy cream (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

20 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

Homemade Caramel

Rich, buttery homemade caramel perfect for topping desserts or enjoying as a sweet treat.

Prep

5 min

Cook

15 min

Total

20 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Making homemade caramel is a delightful process that results in a luscious, golden sauce perfect for drizzling over your favourite desserts. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this sweet and buttery treat in your own kitchen. Caramel, with its rich flavour and smooth texture, has been a beloved addition to many classic recipes. Whether you're topping a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enhancing the flavour of a warm apple pie, homemade caramel adds a touch of decadence and warmth.

Ingredients

Servings

Caramel

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients

Ensure all your ingredients are measured and ready to go, as the caramel-making process moves quickly.

Pro tip: Keep the heavy cream at room temperature to prevent it from seizing the caramel.

Melt the sugar

In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.

Pro tip: Use a heat-resistant spatula to stir, ensuring the sugar doesn't stick to the sides.

Caramelize the sugar

Stop stirring and allow the mixture to boil until it turns a deep amber colour, about 8-10 minutes.

Pro tip: Watch closely to prevent burning; the colour should be a rich amber, not dark brown.

Add the butter

Carefully add the butter pieces, stirring constantly until fully melted.

Pro tip: The mixture will bubble vigorously, so add the butter slowly.

Incorporate the cream

Remove the pan from heat and carefully pour in the cream, stirring constantly until smooth.

Pro tip: Be cautious as the mixture will bubble up when the cream is added.

Finish the caramel

Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Let the caramel cool slightly before transferring to a jar.

Pro tip: For a thicker caramel, allow it to cool completely before using.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning.</li><li>Stir constantly to ensure even heating.</li><li>Be cautious when adding cream to avoid splattering.</li><li>Store caramel in a sealed jar to keep it fresh.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Once prepared, homemade caramel can be stored in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Simply reheat it gently before using. Pair your caramel with desserts like brownies, cheesecake, or even incorporate it into your morning coffee for a sweet start to the day.