Homemade Caramel
Prep time
5
minutesCooking time
15
minutesFreeze time
2
hoursTotal time
2
hours20
minutesMaking caramel from scratch is easier than you think—and totally worth it. Whether you’re using it for turtle cookies, drizzling over desserts, or just sneaking spoonfuls, this caramel recipe delivers every time.
Ingredients
1 cup granulated sugar
6 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
½ cup heavy cream, warmed
½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Directions
- Melt the Sugar: Heat granulated sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a heatproof spatula or wooden spoon until the sugar melts and turns amber in color. Be patient—it will clump before melting.
- Add Butter: Carefully add the butter to the melted sugar. Stir until fully combined. (It will bubble up—be cautious!)
- Incorporate Cream: Slowly pour in the warm heavy cream while stirring. The mixture will bubble vigorously. Keep stirring until the caramel is smooth and creamy.
- Flavor It (Optional): Stir in vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
- Set the Caramel: Pour the caramel into candy molds, a miniature ice cube tray, or a greased flat tray. Freeze or refrigerate until firm. If using a flat tray, cut the set caramel into small squares.
