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Salted Vanilla Caramel Sauce Recipe

4.7 from 93 reviews

This Salted Vanilla Caramel Sauce is a rich and luscious treat combining the deep, golden sweetness of caramelized sugar with the creamy infusion of vanilla pods and a touch of sea salt. Perfect for drizzling over desserts, ice cream, or incorporating into your favorite recipes, this sauce offers a silky smooth texture and a balanced flavor profile.

Ingredients

Scale

Caramel Sauce Ingredients

  • 200g granulated white sugar
  • 330g heavy cream (35%)
  • 30g butter, cold and cubed
  • 2 vanilla pods (or 1.5 tsp vanilla powder)
  • 5g sea salt

Instructions

  1. Infuse the Cream: Place the heavy cream and scraped-out vanilla pods (or vanilla powder) into a medium pot. Heat on medium until it simmers, then turn off the heat and leave the mixture hot to infuse the vanilla flavor.
  2. Caramelize the Sugar: In a medium pot, slowly caramelize the granulated sugar in several stages. Stir gently from the center outward using a heat-proof spatula. Continue until the sugar reaches a deep golden brown color.
  3. Add the Hot Cream: Reduce heat to low and gradually add the hot infused cream to the caramel in three additions, whisking vigorously after each to avoid clumping and splatter.
  4. Simmer the Caramel: Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors and develop the sauce thickness, then remove the pot from heat.
  5. Strain the Sauce: Pour the caramel through a fine sieve into a heat-proof jug to remove vanilla pods and any clumps. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Add Butter and Salt: Incorporate the cold cubed butter and sea salt into the warm caramel. Hand blend until the sauce is silky smooth and well blended.
  7. Store Properly: Transfer the caramel sauce into a heat-proof container or smaller jars. Seal tightly and refrigerate.
  8. Optional Preservation: For longer shelf life, vacuum pack the caramel. It can be stored up to 2 weeks in the fridge or longer if sealed properly.

Notes

  • Use a long-handled whisk to prevent burns from splattering caramel.
  • Adding the cream slowly prevents sugar from seizing and ensures smoothness.
  • For stronger vanilla flavor, leave the pods in the cream while infusing.
  • Store the caramel tightly sealed in the fridge; it will thicken when cold and can be gently reheated before use.
  • Vacuum packing is an excellent option for extending freshness.

Keywords: Salted Caramel, Vanilla Caramel Sauce, Dessert Sauce, Homemade Caramel, Vanilla Infused, Sea Salt Caramel