How to Make Your Own Salted Caramel Sauce During Quarantine

During these times of quarantine, it's easy to turn to comfort food and sweet treats. One of the most versatile and delicious desserts is salted caramel. This rich, indulgent sauce can be drizzled over ice cream, used as a topping for cakes, or even spread on a cookie. Making your own salted caramel sauce is easier than you might think, and it's a fantastic way to pass the time and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients You Will Need

1 cup of white sugar 5 Tablespoons of butter, cut into pieces 1/2 cup of heavy cream 1 Tablespoon of heavy cream for tempering and a pinch to taste of sea salt

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Salted Caramel

Follow these simple steps for crafting your very own salted caramel sauce:

Step 1: Melting the Sugar

Place a heavy-bottomed saucepan on medium-high heat and add 1 cup of white sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar begins to melt. This process should take about 5-7 minutes. Continue stirring until the sugar melts completely and turns a deep amber color. All the sugar chunks should dissolve and the mixture should be smooth. Once the sugar has reached the desired amber color, stop stirring and continue to cook the mixture. It should start to smoke as the sugar caramelizes. This process should take another 3-8 minutes. It's important not to stir the mixture during this stage, as it can cause it to crystallize. After the sugar begins to smoke and reaches the amber color, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it sit for about 30 seconds to cool slightly.

Step 2: Incorporating the Butter and Cream

Whisk in 5 tablespoons of butter until it has melted and is fully incorporated into the caramel mixture. Slowly pour in the remaining 1/2 cup of heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent burning and spilling. It's important to pour the cream into the mixture slowly, as it can suddenly and strongly expand, causing a mess. Guard the mixture carefully as it rises and steams. Be cautious to avoid letting it bubble over. Once the cream is thoroughly mixed in and the sauce is smooth, sprinkle in a pinch of sea salt. Whisk to combine and ensure the salt is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Cooling and Storage

Transfer the caramel sauce to a jar or airtight container for cooling. Make sure it cools completely before refrigerating. Store the cooled caramel sauce in the refrigerator. It should last for up to 10 days.

Final Tips and Suggestions

To prevent your caramel from seizing up (which can happen if water gets into the mixture), it's crucial to use a heavy-bottomed saucepan and to be gentle with the water content. You can also add a splash of water or corn syrup to the cream before adding it to prevent crystallization.

Salt is a crucial ingredient in salted caramel; it balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor. Use a high-quality sea salt to ensure optimal taste.

Enjoy the amazingness of your homemade salted caramel during your quarantine days!

Conclusion

Making your own salted caramel sauce is a delightful and easy way to bring some comfort and joy into your home during quarantine. With just a few simple steps, you can create a versatile and delicious sauce that can be enjoyed in countless ways. So, go ahead and try your hand at making your own salted caramel sauce, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your labor!