Easy Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce: The 5-Ingredient Recipe for Desserts

Salted Caramel is a luscious and versatile sauce that balances rich caramelized sugar with a touch of salt for an irresistible flavor. Whether drizzled over ice cream, swirled into brownies, or used as a dip for fruit, this homemade salted caramel is an essential addition to your dessert repertoire. Made with just five ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in less than 15 minutes!

What Is Salted Caramel?

Salted caramel is a luxurious sauce that combines the deep, toasty sweetness of caramelized sugar with a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. While caramel dates back centuries, the modern salted caramel trend took off in the early 2000s, popularized by French pastry chef Pierre Hermé. This version delivers a smooth and silky texture perfect for all your dessert needs.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: No fancy ingredients—just sugar, butter, cream, honey, and salt.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in minutes with just one saucepan.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for topping desserts, mixing into drinks, or enjoying by the spoonful.
• Rich and Buttery Flavor: The combination of caramelized sugar and butter gives it an indulgent depth.

Pro Tips for the Best Salted Caramel

• Use a Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan: This helps prevent burning and ensures even heat distribution.
• Be Patient with the Sugar: Let the sugar melt gradually for a deep, rich caramel flavor.
• Add Warm Cream Slowly: Adding cold cream can cause the caramel to seize up.
• Use High-Quality Salt: A good sea salt or fleur de sel elevates the flavor.
• Blend for Extra Smoothness: An immersion blender ensures a velvety consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Did My Caramel Turn Out Grainy?

Grainy caramel happens when sugar crystallizes. To prevent this, avoid stirring the sugar while it melts and brush the sides of the pan with a wet pastry brush.

Can I Make Salted Caramel Without Butter?

Yes, but butter adds richness and helps create a smooth texture. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.

How Do I Fix Burnt Caramel?

Unfortunately, burnt caramel can’t be salvaged. The best solution is to start over and monitor the sugar closely.

Can I Use Brown Sugar Instead of White Sugar?

Brown sugar has molasses, which gives it a different flavor profile. While it won’t make traditional caramel, it can still create a delicious sauce.

What’s the Best Way to Use Salted Caramel?

Drizzle it over ice cream, mix it into coffee, use it as a filling for cakes, or even enjoy it on toast!

How to Store Salted Caramel

To keep your caramel fresh:

• Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to one month.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before use.

How to Freeze Salted Caramel

• Pour the cooled caramel into a freezer-safe container.
• Store for up to three months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm before using.

How to Make Perfect Salted Caramel

Pour sugar into a saucepan over medium heat, letting it melt without stirring until it turns into a deep amber color. In a separate pan, warm the cream and honey.

Gradually add the warm cream and honey mixture to the caramel while stirring continuously.

Turn off the heat and stir in the butter. Use an immersion blender to emulsify for a silky texture.

Pour into jars and let it cool before using.