Caramel Sauce

Easy Caramel Sauce Recipe

This rich and buttery caramel can take any dessert from good to amazing. Whether you’re spooning it over a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzling it on a slice of warm apple pie, or using it as a dip for fresh apple slices, our recipe requires minimal effort but has big flavor.

We love to use it on desserts like our caramel apple dump cake or cinnamon apple bread pudding. It also makes the best topping for fall favorites like an apple crumble or a pecan pie cheesecake.

What is caramel sauce?

Caramel is a smooth, rich mixture made by heating sugar until it caramelizes, then blending it with cream or butter. The result is a velvety sauce that can vary in texture depending on the amount of cream used. It’s mostly used to add flavor and moisture to desserts like cakes, brownies, and cheesecakes. This sauce can be served warm for a more pourable consistency or chilled for a thicker texture.

How to Make Easy Caramel Sauce

Our recipe simplifies the process of making caramel. We use store-bought caramel squares so you’re able to skip the tricky sugar-melting step. This makes it virtually foolproof for home cooks of all levels.

• Melt the ingredients: Place the caramel squares and heavy cream into a saucepan and heat over low heat. Using low heat ensures the mixture melts smoothly without burning.

• Stir constantly: Stir with a wooden spoon or whisk as the caramels and cream melt together.

• Store and serve: Once it’s ready, pour the mixture into a heat-safe jar. Use it immediately or store in the refrigerator for later use.

Why use caramel squares instead of making it from scratch?

Using store-bought caramels saves time and avoids the risk of burning sugar, which can be hard to get just right. The end result is a smooth and delicious homemade caramel sauce without the hassle.

Are Kraft caramel bits the same as caramels?

Yes, Kraft caramel bits are essentially the same as traditional caramel squares, just in smaller pieces, which can melt more quickly. Both work well in this recipe! If you use caramel bits, it saves even more time since there are no plastic wrappers to remove.

Can I use this caramel sauce for more than just desserts?

Absolutely! Besides topping cakes and ice cream, this caramel sauce is wonderful for dipping apple slices or as a base for salted caramel sauce by adding a pinch of sea salt. It’s also a great way to sweeten your coffee or hot chocolate.

How to Store

Storing this sauce properly ensures you’ll have it ready when you need to drizzle, dip, or stir it into your favorite desserts.

• Refrigerator: After making the sauce, allow it to cool a little before transferring it to an airtight container or jar. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to use it, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until it’s smooth and pourable again.
• Freezer: For longer storage, caramel can also be frozen. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to use it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat.

More Dessert Recipes

• Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce
• Gingerbread Cupcakes
• Apple Turnovers
• Pumpkin Bread Pudding