Instructions:
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Before starting the cooking process, have all your ingredients measured and ready. This includes cubed butter, room temperature heavy cream, vanilla extract, and flaky sea salt.
- Melt the Sugar: Place the granulated sugar in an even layer at the bottom of a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Allow the sugar to melt gradually, stirring occasionally with a heat-resistant spatula to ensure even melting. Be patient, as this process may take some time.
- Caramelize the Sugar: Once the sugar has melted, continue to cook it until it turns a deep amber color. Be attentive during this stage to avoid burning the caramel. Swirl the pan gently to ensure even caramelization.
- Add the Butter: Reduce the heat to low and add the cubed butter to the caramelized sugar. Stir continuously until the butter is completely melted and well combined with the sugar. This will create a smooth and velvety caramel base.
- Incorporate Heavy Cream: Gradually pour the room temperature heavy cream into the caramel while stirring constantly. Be cautious as the mixture may bubble up. Continue to stir until the cream is fully incorporated, creating a luscious caramel sauce.
- Check the Temperature: Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to cook until it reaches 230°F (110°C). This will give you a sauce with a perfect consistency—smooth and pourable yet thick enough to coat your desserts.
- Add Vanilla Extract and Salt: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract. Finally, sprinkle the flaky sea salt into the caramel, adjusting the quantity to suit your taste preferences. Stir well to ensure even distribution.
- Cool and Store: Let the salted caramel sauce cool to room temperature before transferring it to a clean, airtight jar or container. The sauce will thicken as it cools. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Conclusion:
Congratulations! You’ve just created a heavenly batch of homemade salted caramel sauce. Drizzle it over ice cream, use it as a topping for cakes, or swirl it into your morning coffee. The possibilities are endless, and your culinary creations are sure to impress. Enjoy the decadent flavors of this salted caramel sauce and elevate your desserts to a new level of sophistication.