Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Sugar

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, add the granulated sugar.

Place it over medium heat and allow the sugar to cook until it reaches a golden amber color. This will take some time, so be patient and stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 2

Heat the Cream

While the sugar is caramelizing, in a separate pot, gently heat the heavy cream until it starts to simmer. Do not let it boil completely, just bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 3

Combine Cream and Caramelize the Sugar

Once your sugar has reached a beautiful amber color and is completely melted, carefully add the hot cream in two batches. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble vigorously.

Step 4

Cook the Caramel

Stir the mixture well and let it cook for an additional 1 to 1.5 minutes to achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 5

Finish the Caramel

Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the unsalted butter, stirring until fully combined and smooth.

Step 6

Cool the Caramel

Allow the caramel to cool before using it in cakes, cupcakes, or simply enjoy it by the spoonful!

Servings

Once your creamy caramel is ready, the fun truly begins! Here are some serving suggestions to get those taste buds tingling:

💖 **Layered Cakes:** Drizzle the caramel between layers of your favorite cake for a luscious surprise! The blend of flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds.

🍰 **Cupcake Fillings:** Use this beautiful caramel as a filling for your cupcakes. Simply inject it into freshly baked cupcakes for an unexpected treat that will delight your guests!

🍨 **Ice Cream Topping:** Who can resist a warm caramel drizzle over vanilla ice cream? This combination is simply heavenly and perfect for a cozy dessert at home.

✨ **Trifles:** Layer the caramel in a trifle with whipped cream, fruits, and cake bits for an impressive dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Equipment

Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan

Using a heavy-bottomed saucepan helps distribute the heat evenly, preventing the sugar from burning quickly. This is key for achieving that perfect amber color!

We recommend:
Made In Cookware - 4 Quart Stainless Steel Saucepan with Lid - 5 Ply Stainless Clad Sauce Pan - Professional Cookware - Crafted in Italy - Induction Compatible
4.7
(270) Made In Cookware - 4 Quart Stainless Steel Saucepan with Lid - 5 Ply Stainless Clad Sauce Pan - Professional Cookware - Crafted in Italy - Induction Compatible $159.00 View details Prime Cuisinart 6194-20 Chef's Classic 4-Quart Nonstick-Hard-Anodized, Saucepan w/Cover
4.6
(10,516) Cuisinart 6194-20 Chef's Classic 4-Quart Nonstick-Hard-Anodized, Saucepan w/Cover $45.00 $59.95 View details Prime Cuisinart Saucepan with Cover, Triple Ply 2-Quart Skillet, Multiclad Pro, MCP19-18N
4.7
(6,850) Cuisinart Saucepan with Cover, Triple Ply 2-Quart Skillet, Multiclad Pro, MCP19-18N $49.95 View details
Whisk

A good whisk will help you smoothly mix the cream into the melted sugar, ensuring a silky caramel without any lumps.

We recommend:
Prime OXO Good Grips 11-Inch Balloon Whisk
4.8
(22,752) OXO Good Grips 11-Inch Balloon Whisk $10.93 $11.95 View details Prime best seller Walfos Silicone Whisk,Stainless Steel Wire Whisk Set of 3 -Heat Resistant 480°F Kitchen Whisks for Non-stick Cookware,Balloon Egg Beater Perfect for Blending,Whisking,Beating,Frothing & Stirring,Black
4.7
(9,797) Walfos Silicone Whisk,Stainless Steel Wire Whisk Set of 3 -Heat Resistant 480°F Kitchen Whisks for Non-stick Cookware,Balloon Egg Beater Perfect for Blending,Whisking,Beating,Frothing & Stirring,Black $11.89 $14.99 View details Prime Pack of 2 Danish Dough Whisk Blender Dutch Bread Whisk Hook Wooden Hand Mixer Sourdough Baking Tools for Cake Bread Pizza Pastry Biscuits Tool Stainless Steel Ring 13.5 inches 0.22 lb/pcs…
4.8
(8,757) Pack of 2 Danish Dough Whisk Blender Dutch Bread Whisk Hook Wooden Hand Mixer Sourdough Baking Tools for Cake Bread Pizza Pastry Biscuits Tool Stainless Steel Ring 13.5 inches 0.22 lb/pcs… $9.80 $14.99 View details
Measuring Cups and Spoons

Precise measurements are essential in baking. Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

We recommend:
Prime Spring Chef Stainless Steel Measuring Cups and Measuring Spoons Set of 14 with Leveler, Nesting Kitchen Metal Measuring Cups and Spoons Set for Dry and Liquid Ingredients, Perfect for Cooking & Baking
4.8
(23,103) Spring Chef Stainless Steel Measuring Cups and Measuring Spoons Set of 14 with Leveler, Nesting Kitchen Metal Measuring Cups and Spoons Set for Dry and Liquid Ingredients, Perfect for Cooking & Baking $21.99 View details Prime Simply Gourmet Measuring Cups and Spoons Set of 12, 304 Premium Stainless Steel, Stackable Cups Long Handle Spoons Fits Narrow Jars, Kitchen Gadgets for Liquid & Dry Ingredients Cooking Baking
4.8
(8,140) Simply Gourmet Measuring Cups and Spoons Set of 12, 304 Premium Stainless Steel, Stackable Cups Long Handle Spoons Fits Narrow Jars, Kitchen Gadgets for Liquid & Dry Ingredients Cooking Baking $32.98 $45.99 View details Prime Stainless Steel Measuring Cups And Measuring Spoons 10-Piece Set, 5 Cups And 5 Spoons
4.7
(8,763) Stainless Steel Measuring Cups And Measuring Spoons 10-Piece Set, 5 Cups And 5 Spoons $13.95 $17.98 View details
Heat-Resistant Spatula

This will help scrape the sides of the pan and incorporate all the sugar into the mix, so nothing goes to waste!

We recommend:
Prime DI ORO Spatulas for Kitchen Use - Forever Warranty - 600°F Heat Resistance Silicone - Turner Spatula Set for Cooking - BPA Free Wide Pancake Spatulas - Egg Flippers for Nonstick Cookware Safe (2pc)
4.7
(6,850) DI ORO Spatulas for Kitchen Use - Forever Warranty - 600°F Heat Resistance Silicone - Turner Spatula Set for Cooking - BPA Free Wide Pancake Spatulas - Egg Flippers for Nonstick Cookware Safe (2pc) $24.97 $27.97 View details

Variations

Looking for some alternatives? No problem! Here are gluten-free and vegan variations of this delicious caramel recipe:

🌱 **Gluten-Free Version:** Good news! This caramel is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free cream. You can easily enjoy it without any worries!

🥥 **Vegan Variation:** To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and vegan butter. The result will still be an amazing caramel that everyone will love!

Faq

  • What should I do if my sugar crystallizes?

    If your sugar starts to crystallize while cooking, try adding a few drops of water and gently swirling the pan. Keep the heat low and avoid stirring too much to prevent it from seizing.

  • Can I store leftover caramel?

    Yes! Once cooled, store your caramel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before using.

  • What kind of cream should I use?

    For the best results, use heavy cream with a fat content of at least 36%. This ensures a rich and creamy texture for your caramel.

  • How do I know when the caramel is done?

    Your caramel is ready when it turns a warm amber color. Cook it for about 1-1.5 minutes after adding the cream to develop the flavor fully.

  • Can I flavor the caramel?

    Absolutely! Feel free to add a dash of vanilla extract, a pinch of sea salt, or even a splash of bourbon for a fun twist on traditional caramel!

  • What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?

    You can tell your caramel is done when it reaches that gorgeous amber color. Just make sure to watch it closely to avoid burning!

Nutrition facts

Homemade Creamy Caramel Recipe for Desserts
Recipe Yield:8 servings
Calories:This caramel recipe yields a rich and creamy treat, with each serving containing between 150 to 200 calories.
Calories (Min - Max):150 - 200
Total Fat:9g
Saturated Fat:5g
Protein:1g
Total Carbohydrate:20g
Total Sugars:18g